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In recent years, the United States has experienced a period of deep political and social polarisation. The Biden administration, accompanied by an outspoken media apparatus, represented for many an era of compromise, propaganda and policy choices that fueled internal divisions and undermined the country’s international credibility. Increased censorship, coupled with a dominant narrative that is often divorced from the real concerns of the population, has led to widespread discontent among voters.
The inauguration of Donald Trump was therefore not just a transfer of power: it was the symbol of a political and cultural revolt against the establishment. For millions of Americans, Trump represents the antithesis of a system perceived as increasingly distant from the nation’s founding values. He is the voice of those who oppose decline, those who reject an America bent to globalist logic, and those who call for leadership that puts the interests of the country and its people first.
Trump came to the presidency with a strong and unequivocal message: it is time to change course. His vision is not limited to a simple restoration of old principles, but aims for a profound renewal of domestic and foreign policy. His inaugural address was not an exercise in empty rhetoric, but a declaration of intent that marks the beginning of a new phase for the United States and, indirectly, for the entire West.
With the pragmatism that marked his first term in office, Trump listed his priorities, ranging from border security to the defence of traditional values and an aggressive trade policy based on national interests. This ambitious agenda aims to strengthen American identity, put the country back at the centre of the global stage and respond to the challenges of an increasingly multipolar world.
Despite the predictable chorus of criticism from political opponents and much of the media, Trump’s speech resonated strongly with Americans tired of backsliding and compromise. It is a plan of action that promises to challenge the dominant paradigms and restore to the United States the centrality that, for many, has been eroded in recent years.
This energetic and determined premise paves the way for an in-depth analysis of the ten key actions Trump has promised to take to revitalise the United States and safeguard Western values. What follows is a detailed discussion of these measures.
1. Resume construction of the wall on the border with Mexico
Trump announced the immediate resumption of work to complete the wall along the southern border, with the aim of combating irregular immigration and ensuring internal security. This measure includes the reinstatement of policies such as ‘Remain in Mexico’, which requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for the outcome of their claims. According to a New York Times article, this policy has had a significant impact on migration flows.
2. Stop sanctuary cities
The president has declared his intention to crack down on so-called sanctuary cities, i.e. jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Trump plans to step up deportation operations and use the National Guard to ensure the enforcement of federal immigration laws. According to the Washington Post, these measures are aimed at unifying law enforcement across the country.
3. Designating drug cartels as terrorist organisations
Trump intends to designate drug cartels, including groups such as the ‘Tren de Aragua’, as terrorist organisations. This designation would allow the US to take more aggressive measures to dismantle these organisations, using legal and military tools normally reserved for the fight against terrorism. According to a BBC analysis, this strategy could have significant implications for international relations.
4. Reviving national energy
The president has promised to end the previous administration’s climate policies, such as adherence to the Paris Agreement, in order to boost domestic energy production. The goal is to make the US a leader in the energy sector again by promoting the extraction of oil, natural gas and coal. A Wall Street Journal article highlights how this policy could affect the economy and the environment.
5. Cutting taxes for families and businesses
Trump announced a plan to cut taxes for both households and businesses in order to stimulate investment and economic growth. This tax policy aims to make the US a more competitive business environment and increase disposable income for citizens. According to CNN, these measures could have a positive impact on GDP, but raise questions about the federal deficit.
6. Federal hiring freeze
In order to reduce government spending, the President proposed a hiring freeze in the non-essential public sector and a return to face-to-face work for federal employees, limiting the use of telecommuting. This measure is intended to improve government efficiency and contain operating costs. A report by the Government Accountability Office suggests that these policies have both positive and negative effects on government efficiency.
7. End government censorship
Trump has promised to ensure freedom of expression by eliminating all forms of censorship by federal agencies. This means that no government official will be able to restrict citizens’ opinions, ensuring an open and transparent public debate. As reported by Reuters, this initiative responds to concerns about freedom of expression in recent years.
8. America First’ trade policy
The President has declared that the US will no longer be bound by international agreements that disadvantage American companies. The aim is to promote a trade policy that favours domestic industry by renegotiating or abandoning agreements deemed unfavourable. According to an analysis in the Financial Times, this strategy could reshape global trade relations.
9. Protecting traditional values
Trump has stated his intention to defend traditional values by opposing ideologies that he believes threaten the nation’s cultural foundations. This includes protecting women from radical gender ideologies and celebrating American history while avoiding revisionism. An editorial in the National Review discusses the importance of these issues in the public debate.
10. A government that serves the people
The President has promised a revolution in the bureaucratic management of the country. Federal institutions will be made more efficient by eliminating unnecessary and excessive regulations. The aim is to simplify administrative processes and ensure that government is directly responsive to the needs of the people. This vision, as outlined by the Brookings Institution, aims to reduce the gap between government and the people.
More than just a list of statements of intent, it is a clear and detailed roadmap for putting the United States back at the centre of the world stage. Trump’s ‘America First’ vision aims not only to strengthen the country, but also to protect the values that have guided the West for centuries. It is an ambitious plan for a crucial time.