So, in classic Trump fashion, he’s already mapped out his “Day 1” — and it’s loaded with enough executive fireworks to light up a nation. This isn’t just a handful of plans; it’s a full-blown blitzkrieg of policy changes aimed at shifting, scrapping, and shredding much of the status quo. It’s not just about building walls this time; he’s out to rebuild Washington in his own image.
The Magic Act: Disappearing Criminal Cases
Yes, you heard it — Trump promises to wave his presidential wand to “make most of his criminal cases go away.” How? Fire Jack Smith, the man holding two federal cases against him. He’s hinted that within “two seconds” of re-entering the Oval Office, Smith would be out the door. Unfortunately for Trump, not all cases can be swept under his magical carpet. The Georgia case? That’s sticking around, likely postponed until 2029, after his would-be term expires. Call it poetic justice, or just a state-level reminder that sometimes the law can’t be executive-ordered away.
Pardon Thy Patrons: The Jan. 6 Ringleaders
In another “Day 1” vow, Trump plans to “set free” the “unbelievable patriots” involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. He’s even promised to pardon those charged for what he characterizes as merely overzealous patriotism. Though it might warm the hearts of his most fervent fans, this plan could ignite more outrage than forgiveness. Trump himself admitted some rioters “got out of control” — a slight understatement, perhaps.
The Deep-State Dismantling Act
When it comes to government bureaucracy, Trump’s new motto is “off with their heads.” In his sights are the federal employees he views as secret operatives against him. Trump’s vision? Strip these so-called “deep state” officials of their job protections, allowing him to replace career professionals with loyalists. Enter “Schedule F,” a plan for turning career employees into political pawns. But hold up — revamping an entire bureaucracy takes more than a single executive order, which could turn this “Day 1” ambition into a bureaucratic tug-of-war.
Tariff Time: Import Duties Galore
Trump’s love affair with tariffs is back. He’s promised a blanket 10% tariff on all imported goods and a whopping 60% on Chinese imports, under the premise that tariffs are “the greatest thing ever invented.” Forget diplomacy; Trump’s approach with China is all about the art of the tariff deal. Not only would this approach make imports pricier, but it could also leave American wallets feeling the pinch. But hey, “It’s about America First,” right?
Rollback Roulette: Transgender Protections on the Chopping Block
Next up in his whirlwind list is scrapping protections for transgender students. With an executive order, Trump promises to reverse Title IX changes that bar discrimination based on gender identity. His stance on transgender rights? As subtle as a sledgehammer, with ads against Vice President Kamala Harris that paint him as the antidote to “they/them” politics. It’s not clear if he’ll stop there, with potential plans to restrict federal funds for schools that teach anything he deems “inappropriate.”
Drill, Drill, Drill: Climate Change, Meet Day 1
When it comes to fossil fuels, Trump has one mission: “Drill, drill, drill.” His environmental policy revamp would roll back climate protections, halt green projects, and encourage oil drilling in pristine wildernesses. Trump argues it’s all about lowering energy costs, though the environmental costs are noticeably absent from his agenda. With Arctic oil drilling on the table, Trump seems to be saying, “Polar bears, prepare yourselves.”
Ending the Ukraine-Russia War in a Day…Sure
In the realm of audacious promises, Trump’s vow to settle the Russia-Ukraine conflict within 24 hours might just take the cake. Forget diplomacy as we know it; Trump’s plan involves getting Putin and Zelenskyy in a room and declaring peace. Critics would say this might be oversimplifying the matter, but Trump’s mantra here seems to be, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” Expect fireworks, just not the kind that end wars.
Mass Deportations: The “Biggest Ever” Immigration Purge
Last but not least, Trump’s promise of a grand-scale deportation program. From deploying the National Guard to invoking the rarely used Alien Enemies Act, Trump has pledged to begin deporting undocumented immigrants on Day 1. It’s a logistical and moral minefield that Trump claims will be cost-free. The reality? Between planes, detention centers, and cooperating foreign governments, this won’t be a quick or cheap operation. But Trump’s response to critics remains clear: “It’s not a question of price.”
So, is this Day 1 fantasy or an impending reality? Only time will tell, but if Trump’s plans come to pass, Washington will look very different — and likely not everyone will recognize it.
