As the country braces for yet another shift in leadership, the potential first 100 days of a new Republican administration under President-Elect Donald Trump promises both a return to familiar policies and the advent of initiatives tailored to address current issues. With a legacy of polarized achievements and divisive rhetoric, Trump’s renewed tenure would likely focus on cementing Republican ideals while aiming to differentiate himself from the current administration’s policies. Here’s a look at what the first three months might entail under Trump’s return to the Oval Office.
Revoking Executive Orders and Policies from the Biden Administration
Trump is likely to begin by rolling back executive orders and regulations enacted under President Biden, especially on issues like climate policy, healthcare, and immigration. In line with his previous stance, Trump would likely dismantle policies he considers restrictive on energy production, pushing once again for deregulation in oil, natural gas, and coal sectors.
A renewed focus on immigration restrictions is anticipated, including strengthening border security and possibly reviving the “Remain in Mexico” policy. Other possible measures include a crackdown on sanctuary cities, a reassessment of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and reinvigorated efforts to restrict asylum applications.
Economic Priorities: Tax Cuts and Deregulation
Trump’s first 100 days could also see the initiation of new tax cuts, focusing on both individuals and corporations, intending to stimulate economic growth and appease the party’s conservative base. This could revive components of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act while introducing additional incentives for businesses.
Trump’s administration would likely double down on fossil fuel production in the name of energy independence. Reducing dependence on foreign oil could resonate with domestic production advocates, with promises of increased drilling and pipeline projects.
With inflation and economic hardship impacting small businesses, Trump might introduce additional funding for small business relief, promising tax breaks and credits to offset increased operational costs.
Foreign Policy Shift: “America First” Revival
A strong “America First” strategy would likely be revived, with Trump recommitting to reducing U.S. involvement in multilateral agreements and potentially seeking renegotiation of international treaties to favor American interests.
Trade negotiations with China and the European Union would likely be reframed to reflect an aggressive stance, focusing on reducing the trade deficit and enforcing tariffs. Trump could use the first 100 days to propose tariffs and trade restrictions on goods from countries that he considers trade adversaries.
A return to strengthening military capacity while insisting on increased financial contributions from allies in organizations like NATO could be expected. Trump would likely revisit relationships with key foreign leaders and potentially form new alliances aligned with his administration’s interests.
Healthcare and Social Issues
Trump has hinted at plans to reshape healthcare in the U.S., and this time he might take concrete steps to dismantle portions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). While outright repeal is challenging without significant congressional support, Trump’s team may explore options to reduce the federal footprint in healthcare.
Expect an emphasis on “school choice,” potentially with new policies that expand charter schools and private school vouchers. Trump might push back against curricula he views as progressive, targeting specific educational materials and policies.
Judicial and Law Enforcement Priorities
Trump would likely focus on appointing conservative judges to lower courts, emphasizing nominees aligned with his interpretation of Constitutional values. He may also revive the “law and order” agenda that was central to his previous campaigns, focusing on policing reform in line with Republican ideals.
Trump’s return may entail using executive powers to shield himself and allies from investigations. Pardons for those implicated in investigations associated with his first term and related events could feature within his early actions.
Communication and Rallying the Base
In the initial 100 days, Trump would almost certainly prioritize rallying his base through high-profile public appearances, press conferences, and social media. His presidency might reflect an unconventional communication style, aiming to bolster his narrative and maintain control over public perception.
With a contentious relationship with mainstream media, Trump’s communication strategy may shift towards direct engagement with supporters through social platforms and conservative news outlets, especially if restrictions on social media are lifted.
Potential Challenges Ahead
The 2024 International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) Strike, which impacted major U.S. ports and disrupted the flow of goods, was temporarily halted by a federal stay under the Taft-Hartley Act, underscoring the strike’s significant economic implications. As the January 15, 2025, expiration of the stay looms, tensions between labor unions and port operators remain high, with the Longshoremen’s union preparing to resume their demands for improved wages and working conditions.
The return of a Trump administration is likely to take a hardline approach to the negotiations, potentially leveraging arbitration to prevent further economic disruptions. With port operations critical to supply chains and the economy, Trump could impose aggressive arbitration tactics, possibly proposing a resolution under the guise of “economic stability” to ensure that imports and exports remain unimpeded.
However, this stance risks inflaming union frustrations and could spark further strikes in sectors facing similar pressures. How the administration handles this situation will be crucial, as prolonged disruptions at the ports would reverberate across industries, slow GDP growth, and strain an economy already grappling with inflationary pressures. This could create a blow to the new rebounding stock market reports that show the exchanges rising higher and higher daily, indicating a stimulation of growth.
These initiatives could face significant pushback. With a politically divided Congress, Trump’s administration might struggle to pass sweeping reforms without support from both chambers. Additionally, while some supporters will welcome a Trump return, his divisive reputation may stir civil unrest and lead to public demonstrations, impacting the administration’s ability to maintain a consistent agenda.
Overall, Trump’s first 100 days would likely be a whirlwind of policy reversals, economic initiatives, and high-profile moves aimed at reinforcing his vision of America. While ambitious, these priorities would also set the tone for an administration prepared to challenge convention, both domestically and internationally. The question remains: Will a return to “America First” policies navigate the nation toward prosperity, or will it amplify existing tensions in an already polarized political landscape?
