Trump’s first week in office brought a flurry of executive orders, but week two could set the stage for longer-lasting and global dynamics— for better or for worse. He emphasized his stance on birthright citizenship and tariffs at a House Republican conference at his resort in Miami last week, signaling his intent to reshape key policies with far-reaching implications. However, with a thin Republican majority in Congress, Trump will need near-unanimous party support—and possibly some Democratic backing—to advance his agenda.

Birthright Citizenship: A Constitutional Showdown?

One of the most controversial moves from Trump’s second week has been his push to end birthright citizenship, a right enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The amendment, ratified in 1868, was originally intended to grant citizenship to formerly enslaved individuals, but over time, it has been interpreted to apply to nearly all individuals born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents’ nationality. Trump argues this policy incentivizes unauthorized immigration, but legal experts widely agree that attempting to alter it via executive order would be met with immediate legal challenges and likely be ruled unconstitutional.

Tariffs: Economic Protection or Global Tension?

Trump also leaned into his economic vision, announcing a series of tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. His plan includes a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports, a 10% tariff on energy products, and another 10% tariff on Chinese goods. He framed these tariffs as a strategy to curb illegal immigration, reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing, and revive American industry. Historically, tariffs have been used to protect domestic production—most notably under President William McKinley in the late 19th century. However, McKinley’s tariffs also contributed to higher consumer prices and strained trade relations, raising concerns about the potential fallout of Trump’s approach in today’s highly globalized economy.

A Shifting Republican Coalition and Policy Uncertainty

At the Miami conference, Trump declared, “We’re forging a new political majority that’s shattering and replacing Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal coalition, which dominated American politics for over 100 years.” His statement underscores a broader shift in the Republican Party’s identity—one that leans into economic nationalism, stricter immigration policies, and an ‘America First’ trade approach. However, with government funding set to expire in March and a budget blueprint still under debate, Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson will need to rally enough support to pass legislation without fracturing their own party.

What’s Next?

With Trump’s early executive orders setting the tone, his next steps will determine whether these policies gain real traction—or get tied up in legal and political battles. The question remains: are these policies designed for long-term national stability, or are they political maneuvers meant to consolidate power? As the administration moves forward, the balance between decisive leadership and constitutional governance will be tested in ways that could redefine the nation’s trajectory for years to come.

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