By Sarah Baafi
Donald Trump has declared he will “make heads spin” on his initial day in office as the 47th US president, planning a flurry of executive actions immediately after being sworn in on Monday.
He has hinted at some of these upcoming orders, which will focus on issues such as illegal immigration, climate regulations, diversity initiatives, classified information, and more.
While it is customary for presidents to issue executive orders upon taking office, commands that carry the weight of law but can be overturned by later administrations or courts—the breadth of Trump’s agenda appears to be unprecedented, likely inviting significant legal scrutiny.
Here’s an overview of what’s expected.
Immigration and the Border
Deportations
Trump has pledged to initiate the “largest deportation program in American history” on day one.
Reports from Fox News suggest he will declare a national emergency at the border and instruct the military to assist in securing the southern boundary. He also plans to end a long-standing policy preventing federal immigration agents from conducting raids in churches and schools.
However, implementing a large-scale deportation program will likely face logistical challenges, billions in expenses, and legal opposition.
Remain in Mexico
Trump is expected to reinstate his “Remain in Mexico” policy, which during his previous term required around 70,000 non-Mexican asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases were processed.
End Birthright Citizenship
Calling the constitutional guarantee of citizenship for those born on US soil “ridiculous,” Trump has vowed to eliminate it. However, as this right is enshrined in the Constitution, revoking it would be far more complicated than issuing an executive order.
Border Closures for Health Reasons
Using a 1944 measure known as Title 42, which allows migration restrictions for public health purposes, Trump may seek to justify closing the southern border by citing health concerns.
Drug Cartels
Trump plans to designate drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations,” grouping them with entities like Al Qaeda and Hamas.
Border Wall Construction
During his 2016 presidency, Trump initiated the construction of a border wall. Although portions were completed, much remains unfinished, and he aims to resume and expand construction.
Trade and Economy
Tariffs
Trump has committed to imposing extensive tariffs on imports to prioritize American manufacturing.
While he introduced tariffs during his first term—some of which remain under Biden—Trump now plans 10% tariffs on all imports, 25% on Canadian and Mexican goods, and 60% on Chinese imports, with executive orders ready for immediate action.
Experts warn these tariffs could raise consumer prices and exacerbate inflation, with other nations potentially retaliating.
Cryptocurrency Reserve
Trump’s advocacy for cryptocurrency has spurred speculation that he might establish a federal “Bitcoin reserve,” similar to US stockpiles of gold and oil, as a strategic asset benefiting all Americans.
Climate and Energy
Undo Biden’s Climate Policies
Trump has pledged to dismantle many of Biden’s climate initiatives, including offshore and federal land drilling restrictions, fulfilling his promise to increase US energy independence. He also plans to ban new wind energy projects and cancel electric vehicle mandates.
Paris Agreement Withdrawal
After withdrawing from the Paris climate accord in 2017, Trump is expected to repeat the action, undoing Biden’s decision to rejoin the agreement in 2021.
Capitol Riot
Pardons for January 6 Participants
Trump has indicated he may pardon many of the individuals convicted after the January 6 Capitol riots. Over 1,500 people were arrested, and at least 600 were charged with assaulting or obstructing federal officers. While he has not committed to pardoning all, he has expressed a willingness to review their cases.
