Trump’s Second Term Policy Changes: What Can We Expect?
On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump began his second term, signaling new policies. The Trump administration is likely to push for immediate changes in seven key areas. Let’s explore how these changes will impact each sector and examine the remaining uncertainties.
1. Immigration Policy
Expected Major Changes
The Trump administration is expected to significantly strengthen border control and deport more undocumented immigrants. It is highly likely to implement strict entry restrictions to prevent illegal entry from abroad and to begin deportation enforcement in earnest. Large-scale deportation operations are already being discussed in cities like Chicago.
Uncertainties
It is unclear whether Trump will focus on specific groups or implement a broad approach. Will the target be limited to people with criminal records, recent entrants, or those already under deportation orders? Or will it include long-term residents with established families in the U.S.?
2. Tariff Policy
Expected Major Changes
There is a high possibility that the commitment to impose tariffs of up to 20% on foreign goods will be fulfilled. This is intended to protect domestic manufacturing in the U.S. and increase the price of foreign goods.
Uncertainties
It is not yet clear whether high tariffs will be imposed uniformly on all goods, or limited to specific countries (e.g., China) or specific products (e.g., technology equipment).
3. Relations with China: Economic and Technological
Expected Major Changes
China remains the most important diplomatic and trade counterpart in the Trump administration. In the tech sector, in particular, there’s a high chance of reregulation of Chinese-related platforms such as TikTok.
- Some high-ranking officials view China as a hostile country that poses a threat to the U.S. economy.
- However, some individuals, like Elon Musk, highly value the potential of the Chinese market and may adopt a more conciliatory stance.
Uncertainties
Trump himself has shown a contradictory attitude, publicly criticizing the Chinese Communist Party and President Xi Jinping while also expressing a preference for his leadership. How these conflicting views will translate into policy remains to be seen.
4. Domestic Economy: Reviving American Industry
Trump is expected to focus on reviving manufacturing and energy industries in the U.S. It is highly likely that he will emphasize job creation through deregulation and increased domestic resource utilization.
Uncertainties
A conflict with environmental policies is inevitable. There may be a lot of opposition to strengthening the production of fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas.
5. International Trade
Expected Major Changes
Trump is expected to review existing free trade agreements and continue with protectionist trade policies centered around the U.S. On the other hand, the impact on trade relations with key allies is still difficult to predict.
Uncertainties
Large-scale protectionism may lead to retaliatory tariffs from other countries. This could also create an economic burden for U.S. companies and consumers.
6. Divisions in American Society
Expected Major Changes
Trump is expected to engage in public politics in a way that further solidifies his core support base. This is likely to intensify political polarization.
Uncertainties
The risk of these divisions leading to extreme social conflicts or protests cannot be ruled out.
7. Diplomacy and Military
Expected Major Changes
Trump is likely to continue with military build-up and the “America First” principle. This may manifest as redesigning existing alliance structures such as NATO or pursuing new alliances.
Uncertainties
Whether Trump’s vision will strengthen America’s international standing in the long term or lead to relative isolation is still a matter of debate.
Conclusion
The second Trump administration is expected to push for rapid and drastic changes, signaling strong regulatory changes and a restructuring of existing policy frameworks. At the same time, there are likely to be considerable uncertainties, as well as social and economic controversies. The developments in the coming weeks will clarify the direction of each policy. Readers, you need to prepare in advance for how these changes will affect your lives, both directly and indirectly.
*Source URL:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/20/briefing/donald-trump-inauguration.html
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