With Donald Trump back in the White House, there are many questions about what his return will mean for the country and the world. Some see it as an opportunity to return to his staunch policies, while others worry about what it might bring. Here I explain, in simple terms, some of the things we could see with Trump as president in this new term.
Economy: More “America First” measures
Trump has always been known for his focus on putting America first on economic and trade issues. In his previous years, he implemented tariffs on products from China and renegotiated trade agreements. It is possible that he will again focus on such policies, incentivizing companies to produce on U.S. soil and protect domestic industry. Some believe this could help create jobs in certain sectors, but others fear it could increase prices on some products.
Immigration: Tighter Restrictions
Trump’s immigration policy was one of the most controversial issues of his previous presidency, and this issue is likely to return with a vengeance. During his first term, he built part of the wall on the border with Mexico and implemented policies to reduce illegal migration. Now, with the promise to continue that hard line, we could see even stricter policies, including more deportations and fewer facilities for people to enter the country legally. For many, this represents a concern about the rights of migrants and Latino communities in the U.S.
International Relations: Less Alliances, More Confrontation
Trump likes to be direct and does not always follow the traditional rules of diplomacy. In his previous term, he was known for withdrawing the U.S. from several international agreements and challenging organizations such as the UN and NATO. This time, we could expect a similar stance, with less interest in multilateral alliances and a focus on making individual deals that directly benefit the U.S. This could mean tensions with allied countries, and a complicated relationship with China and Russia.
Environmental issues: Backtracking on climate policies
Trump has been a critic of environmental regulations, and during his first term he withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement, which seeks to combat climate change. With his return, he is likely to reverse or soften some climate change policies that were implemented under the Biden administration. This could have an impact on renewable energy projects and environmental protection measures. For his supporters, this approach seeks to protect jobs in sectors such as coal and oil; for environmentalists, it is a step backward in the fight against climate change.
Health care reform and changes in abortion access
Trump has expressed his intention to reform the health care system, although his specific plans have not always been clear. He may seek to make changes to the health insurance system, especially with regard to Obamacare, which he has long opposed. In addition, as the Supreme Court has become more conservative, some states may place greater restrictions on access to abortion, a topic of great debate in U.S. society.
Possible polarization: A divided country
One thing that seems almost certain is that Trump’s return to the presidency will keep America divided. His direct style and policies often elicit strong reactions of both support and rejection. He is likely to continue to use social networks and other media to directly address his supporters and criticize his opponents. This could intensify polarization in the country, making issues such as migration, the economy and civil rights continue to be points of conflict among Americans.
What can we expect in general?
Trump’s return to the White House marks a chapter that will undoubtedly bring change and controversy. His policies tend to be quick, direct and with a nationalist focus. This could mean an economy that prioritizes American workers, although we could also see more tension on issues such as migration and relations with other countries.
For some, these next four years represent an opportunity to strengthen the United States and return to a path of economic and political independence. For others, it is a cause for concern and they fear that there will be setbacks on rights and sustainability issues. In any case, this new mandate promises to leave no one indifferent.
