The United States of America Decides
The Executive Branch
President: Donald Trump, the 45th and 47th President Elect of the United States.
Donald Trump has become the second U.S. president to win two non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland (22nd and 24th president). Cleveland was the only Democratic president, in between a Republican dominance, which lasted from Abraham Lincoln (1861) to William Howard Taft (1913). His leadership during a time of economic crisis—marked by the Panic of 1893—secured his return to office after a brief Republican presidency under Benjamin Harrison. Much like Cleveland, Trump’s return to the presidency has been largely attributed to economic concerns. In the 2024 election, approximately 60% of voters identified the economy as their primary issue. Many Trump voters credited their vote to a fondness of his economic policy during his first term (2016–2020) compared to the years under President Biden (2021–2024). However, it should be noted economic policies carry over from previous presidents; therefore, some of Obama’s economic policies extended to Trump’s early term, and likewise with Trump’s policies in the early years of Biden’s term.

The Judicial Branch
The Supreme Court: The judicial branch does not involve elections, as judges are meant to remain impartial and above public opinion. However, Trump’s first term left a significant mark on the judiciary, with the appointment of three Supreme Court justices (Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett) tipping the Court’s ideological balance toward conservatism. This Republican-leaning judiciary may play a critical role in shaping the legal landscape during Trump’s second term.

The Legislative Branch (Congress)
House of Representatives: The House remains under Republican control. This continued Republican lead will not change much, besides the now connection of Congress allowing them to create more action. Some ideas the house has mentioned they would like to change (if they cannot these bills will turn to executive orders); Title Nine (bathroom policies), condemning Antisemitism, Hong Kong Financial Concerns and like all other Congress terms, many more ideas will arise and change.
Senate: Republicans flipped four Senate seats (West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Montana), resulting in a 53-47 Republican majority. This created a Republican trifecta—control of the presidency, Senate, and House. While this gives Republicans significant power, the slim margin of control means multiple policies may prove challenging to pass. Three Republican dissenting votes would stop any bills and/or policies unfavored by Democrats. Republican whips are likely to push for partisanship, encouraging members to vote along party lines. Yet, Donald Trump needs to remain highly respectful and liked among the Congress to make major change. On the other hand, with the Republican Senators currently appointed, it is predicted legislative priorities are expected to align closely with Trump’s agenda.
The Senate’s responsibilities include proposing legislation, approving federal appointees, overseeing the executive branch, and the power of the purse (decisions about money).

Governors
Republicans hold 27 governorships compared to 23 for Democrats. While governors often receive less national attention, they wield significant influence within their states. Understanding the governor and their party could help the public understand how the election will impact their personal life. Republican-led states may serve as testing grounds for policies which struggle to pass at the federal level.
Key Policies Under Trump
Immigration
Trump has revived his 2016 promise of mass deportations, advocating for a large-scale removal of undocumented immigrants, estimated at 11 million people. His plan could lead to substantial economic repercussions, as undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually. While red states may enforce these policies, resistance from blue states could create logistical and legal challenges.
Economics
Trump’s economic platform remains similar to his first term, focusing on deregulation, tax cuts, and reducing international trade barriers. Supporters credit his policies for economic growth during his first term, though critics highlight long-term deficits and inequality.
Abortion
The overturning of Roe v. Wade through the Supreme Court reshaped by Trump has made abortion a central issue. While Trump has downplayed this topic during the 2024 campaign, laws like the Comstock Act of 1873 could allow for restrictions on reproductive healthcare tools, including those used in cancer screenings and IVF treatments. If Trump successfully uses the Comstock Act of 1873 would also successfully ban abortion nationally. While a major fear among many Trump non-supporters, the Comstock Act of 1873 is only talk between those close to Trump and not him specifically. Many fear these policies could further erode women’s healthcare access.
Climate
After backing out of the Paris Agreement in favor of American businesses, it is likely he may back out of other climate change initiatives (Montreal Protocol/Ozone Protection and Kigali Amendment). Due to the deniability of climate change amongst a major section of the Republican Party, Trump has mentioned ‘energy dominance’, which means more support for fossil fuels and less action on lessening economic footprint. These ideas along with the dismissal of a few current climate scientists could create more job opportunities, yet these policies could also harm the environment significantly.

Reactions
Trump’s return to the presidency has sparked both hope and fear. Some believe his experience will make him more pragmatic, while others see him as “all talk, no action.” His divisive rhetoric continues to alienate many, though his supporters argue they vote for policy, not personality.
Key challenges include addressing economic concerns, immigration, and divisive social issues like abortion. Some Americans fear an authoritarian turn, while others view his presidency as a necessary correction.
The Path Forward
As the nation enters this new chapter, it’s essential to engage in meaningful debate. Exploring alternatives to the nationally agreed upon polarization, such as proportional representation voting used in countries like Sweden and Germany. Above all, Americans must work to strengthen democracy while addressing pressing issues like climate change, gun violence, and economic inequality.

References
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