Does Trump fill you with hope or fear? Have your say
Donald Trump, speaking to an ecstatic crowd of 20,000 MAGA devotees at Washington's Capital One Arena just before the inauguration of his second term, proclaimed: "At noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand new day of American strength and prosperity, dignity and pride. Bringing it all back once and for all. We are going to end the reign of a failed and corrupt political establishment in Washington, a failed administration. We achieved the most epic political victory our country has ever seen."
Does Trump fill you with hope or fear? How do you think his presidency will play out? Have your say in our comments section.
During his rousing speech, he didn't shy away from criticising Joe Biden, his predecessor, lambasting him for allegedly trying to take the credit for the landmark hostage agreement between Israel and Hamas. The mention of Biden drew resounding boos from the audience as Trump said: "I know that Biden is saying that they made the deal."
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He also proudly referred to recent foreign policy successes, telling the energised gathering: "This week we achieved an epic ceasefire agreement as a first step toward lasting peace in the Middle East. And this agreement could only have happened as a result of our historic victory in November," adding with satisfaction, "I'm glad to report that the first hostages have just been released."
Trump has detailed his intentions to fortify the southern border, boost investment within the States, and reverse the current US prohibition on TikTok. He suggested a "joint venture" with the Chinese-owned app, proposing that the US Government should take a 50 per cent share of the profits in exchange for its continued operation.
As Trump assumes command in the Oval Office, a torrent of executive orders is anticipated, signalling significant shifts in policy. The new president has pledged to astonish many with his bold and often contentious agenda, which includes a crackdown on what he calls the "deep state".
The initial day in office is expected to witness a wave of terminations throughout federal agencies, focusing on individuals thought to have subverted his prior term.
Globally, his trade policies are causing concern, especially among EU members. His plans to combat inflation and safeguard domestic industries by imposing tariffs of up to 20 per cent on imported goods are designed to promote the purchase of American products.
Nevertheless, this approach risks provoking reciprocal tariffs on American exports and could adversely affect US consumers.
Regarding environmental issues, Trump's position on climate change remains unchanged: prioritising the production of US oil and gas, accelerating fracking projects, and discontinuing renewable energy endeavours from the Biden era, such as wind farm development. There is also speculation about potential pardons for those involved in the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, after the election defeat in 2020.
Does Trump fill you with hope or fear? How do you think his presidency will play out? Have your say in our comments section.