Most US presidents come into office with promises of change and new directions on their lips – but Donald Trump, the 45th and 47th president of the US, only the second in history to serve non-consecutive terms, is gearing up for a whirlwind first day in office on January 20, 2025. Trump’s promises made on the campaign trail are hot on his heels as he steps into the White House, setting the stage for what is expected to be a packed day of action and controversy.
Dictatorship?
In a Fox interview last year, Trump made it clear that he would not use his presidential powers for retribution against anyone – except on day one. “I want to close the border and drill, drill, drill,” he boldly declared. However, he was quick to add, “After that, I’m not a dictator.” Trump’s team later clarified that his statement was intended to provoke the media and his political rivals, emphasizing that he did not intend to overstep his bounds as president.
Pardons for Rioters
Trump recently announced his intention to pardon the rioters involved in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. Speaking on NBC’s Meet The Press, he expressed sympathy for those convicted, stating that they were “living in hell.” While some rioters have already faced trial and sentencing, hundreds more are awaiting their day in court. Trump assured that the pardons would be thorough, but individuals who acted irrationally or violently might not receive clemency.
Flood of New Appointments and Tariffs
On his first day in office, Trump has pledged to impose tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China to combat illegal immigration and drug smuggling. He emphasized the uncertainty of the future, stating, “I can’t guarantee anything. I can’t guarantee tomorrow.” Additionally, Trump announced a flood of new appointments to the Pentagon and plans to enforce tariffs on imports into the US, signaling a strong stance on trade policies.
Mass Deportations and Challenging the Constitution
At a rally in October, Trump vowed to launch the “largest deportation program in American history” on his first day in office to remove criminals from the country. While emphasizing the deportation of criminal migrants, he hinted at potential exceptions for undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children. Trump also plans to challenge the Constitution by issuing an executive order to end birthright citizenship, a move that is likely to face legal challenges and public scrutiny.
Ending the Russian Invasion and Energy Policies
In an effort to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Trump has called for a deal with President Vladimir Putin even before assuming office. His stance on US military aid to Ukraine has been critical, promising to end the war swiftly without specifying his strategy. Trump’s energy policies include a focus on federal oil drilling to combat inflation and a rejection of offshore wind farms and environmentally friendly initiatives like the Green New Deal.
As Donald Trump prepares to take the helm of the White House for the second time, his ambitious agenda for the first day in office promises a mix of controversy, action, and uncertainty. The world watches with bated breath as the 45th and 47th president of the US sets the stage for what is sure to be a tumultuous start to his term.