This story at a glance…

1. Trump’s second-term agenda promises big government and policy changes.

2. Plans include Justice Department restructuring and stricter immigration enforcement.

3. Economic goals feature new tariffs and extended tax cuts.

4. Foreign policy shifts could reduce U.S. overseas commitments.

Trump’s Proposed Agenda and Policy Changes

President-elect Donald Trump has outlined a broad agenda for his second term that could bring notable changes to the structure of the U.S. government, its international relationships, and several domestic policies. Emphasizing a need to “save our country,” Trump’s proposals reflect goals to expand executive influence across various federal departments, shift immigration and economic policies, and redefine foreign alliances and military commitments.

Domestic Policies: Justice Department, Immigration, and Health Care
Trump’s second-term goals include a restructuring of the Justice Department and the civil service system. He has indicated plans to remove key figures within federal law enforcement, such as Special Counsel Jack Smith and FBI Director Christopher Wray, aligning leadership with his administration’s priorities. Additionally, Trump is interested in reviving an order to allow easier replacement of civil servants with appointees who may be more aligned with executive policies, revisiting an idea from his first term that was later rescinded.

On immigration, Trump intends to implement stricter measures, including large-scale deportations and expanded detention facilities for undocumented individuals, potentially using military resources. His administration may also reinstate policies such as requiring asylum seekers to wait outside U.S. borders while their cases proceed.

In health care, Trump may focus on restructuring existing programs like Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Proposals include instituting work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries and considering policy changes in Medicare. His administration has suggested appointing advisors who would prioritize alternative health policies, including potential shifts in vaccination and health regulations.

Economic Plans: Tariffs, Tax Adjustments, and Energy Production
Economically, Trump has proposed implementing a universal tariff on most imports, intended to boost domestic manufacturing by raising the prices of foreign goods, particularly from China. This could change U.S. economic relationships and potentially lead to retaliatory tariffs from trade partners. Additionally, Trump plans to extend tax cuts established in his first term and is considering further reductions in income tax, though these policies may face budget constraints and require congressional support.

Trump also aims to expand domestic energy production by easing regulatory restrictions and increasing oil and gas drilling permits. These plans include possible expansion into areas with strict environmental protections, such as the Alaskan wilderness, as part of a broader approach to lessen dependency on foreign energy sources.

Foreign Policy and Military: Alliances and Defense Strategy
In foreign policy, Trump has emphasized scaling back U.S. overseas commitments and focusing on American interests. He has expressed interest in shifting or reducing the U.S. military presence in countries like Germany and South Korea and has suggested potentially moving troops stationed in Germany to Poland. His second-term plans include efforts to negotiate a swift end to the conflict in Ukraine, though specifics on his approach remain limited.

Trump has also voiced interest in modifying recent military policies that address inclusivity and gender standards. He may reverse policies allowing transgender service members and intends to reassess diversity training programs within the armed forces. In terms of military structure, Trump has suggested he might consider renaming military bases back to names historically associated with the Confederacy.

Reflection
Amid these proposed shifts in policy, Christians are reminded that our call is to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2) and seek justice, mercy, and humility in our communities. With trust in God’s sovereignty, we can approach changes with faith, believing that God’s purposes transcend earthly governance and seeking ways to serve compassionately in a changing world.