As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his return to the White House, his bold “Day 1” agenda has captured widespread attention. Day 1 promises highlight his intent to pursue a bold, controversial agenda. While his supporters praise these measures as decisive and necessary, critics warn of the legal, financial, and societal challenges they may entail. From sweeping immigration reforms to economic and environmental policies, here’s what to expect when Trump takes the oath of office.
Mass Deportations and Border Closures
Immigration remains one of Trump’s cornerstone issues. On the campaign trail, he vowed to launch the largest deportation program in U.S. history. Targeting undocumented migrants, Trump pledged to remove millions of individuals living without legal status. Speaking at a rally at Madison Square Garden, he declared, “I will rescue every city and town that has been invaded and conquered. We will put these vicious and bloodthirsty criminals in jail and then kick them out of our country.” To achieve this, Trump’s administration plans to declare a national emergency, enlisting the U.S. military to assist in deportation efforts. Tom Homan, named the “incoming border czar,” has assured the public of the administration’s readiness, calling it the “biggest deportation operation ever seen.”
Trump has also promised to close the southern border entirely on Day 1, framing it as a crucial move to curb illegal migration and drug trafficking. According to Stephen Miller, a key policy advisor, Trump will sign executive orders immediately to secure the border and initiate mass deportations. While these policies aim to address public concerns, experts estimate that deporting the approximately 11 million unauthorized migrants could cost billions annually. Advocacy groups like the American Immigration Council have warned about the financial and social implications of such drastic measures.
Additionally, studies have shown that undocumented immigrants are statistically less likely to commit violent crimes than U.S.-born citizens, complicating Trump’s claims that deportations would enhance safety.
Ending Birthright Citizenship
Another controversial pledge is Trump’s vow to end birthright citizenship via an executive order. This policy would require at least one parent to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident for their child to gain citizenship. This proposal challenges the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil. Legal experts have already predicted that such a move would face intense legal battles and constitutional scrutiny.
Pardoning January 6 Rioters
One of Trump’s most contentious promises involves granting pardons to individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 Capitol riots. Trump has consistently referred to these defendants as “wrongfully imprisoned”, likening them to hostages. While Trump hinted that some rioters might not receive clemency due to extreme actions, he pledged to review the cases carefully. To date, over 1,580 individuals have faced federal charges, with more than 1,000 pleading guilty.
Tariffs on Canada and Mexico
In a bid to address drug trafficking and migration issues, Trump plans to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. He announced this measure via his Truth Social platform, warning that the tariffs would remain in effect until both nations took substantial action to curb these challenges. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian officials have criticized the plan, warning of retaliatory measures and disputing Trump’s claims about migration and drugs.
Ending the Russia-Ukraine War in 24 Hours?
Trump has repeatedly claimed that he can broker peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict within a single day. While he hasn’t provided specifics, Trump emphasized that his priority is to stop the war rather than pick sides. Critics argue that such statements oversimplify a deeply complex geopolitical crisis. However, Trump’s proposed envoy, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, has suggested aiming for a resolution within 100 days of the new administration.
Reversing Environmental and Energy Policies
Trump has pledged to undo the Biden administration’s climate initiatives, referring to them as “Green New Deal atrocities.” Although the Green New Deal has not been enacted into law, Trump uses the term to criticize policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which focuses on clean energy investments. One key target is to rescind unspent funds allocated under the act and end perceived mandates on electric vehicles. Trump has described these initiatives as a “scam” that he claims hurt American families and industries.
Support for Skilled Immigrants
In a surprising shift, Trump has expressed support for granting green cards to noncitizens who graduate from U.S. colleges. He proposed making green cards automatic for graduates, including those from junior colleges, to retain talent in the U.S. Trump also indicated his willingness to expand H-1B visas for skilled workers, aligning with figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who emphasize the need for highly skilled professionals in science and technology sectors. However, some far-right supporters have opposed these plans, arguing they undermine job opportunities for Americans.
Reinstating Transgender Military Ban
Trump has vowed to reinstate the ban on transgender military service, which he first introduced in 2017. This policy would prohibit transgender individuals from serving in the armed forces, a ban President Biden lifted in 2021. Trump’s broader agenda includes ending what he terms “transgender lunacy” in schools and sports, alongside executive orders aimed at banning certain medical procedures for minors. Advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign have condemned these proposals as discriminatory and harmful, promising to fight back if implemented.
With immigration, economic reforms, and social policies at the forefront, Trump’s return to the White House is poised to spark intense national and international debate. Whether these ambitious plans come to fruition remains to be seen, but their impact will undoubtedly shape the country’s political landscape in the years to come.