The following is a breakdown by policy issue of Trump’s address.

Federal Budget and Debt Ceiling:

Trump reiterated his plan to address the national debt, including a push to balance the budget. He called for a freeze on non-defense spending to curb the rising deficit and proposed cutting some social programs. 

He shouted out the newly minted Department of Government Efficiency, and thanked Elon Musk for his work thus far. After listening to a variety of social programs from healthcare to foreign assistance, Trump said, “And we’ve taken back the money and reduced our debt to fight inflation and other things. Taking back a lot of that money, we got it just in time. This is just the beginning. The Government Accountability Office, federal government office, has estimated annual fraud of over $500 billion in our nation, and we are working very hard to stop it.”

Tax Reforms: 

He proposed comprehensive tax cuts for individuals and businesses. Supported by the recent passing of the Senate GOP budget, $4.5 trillion in tax cuts will be delivered, favoring the wealthiest Americans in the U.S. By reducing taxes for high-income earners, Trump does so with the intention of stimulating economic growth – but instead the government will experience a revenue loss and will have to cut programs like funding to Medicaid. 

Trump said, “We’re seeking permanent income tax cuts all across the board and to get urgently needed relief to Americans hit especially hard by inflation.”

Energy Policy: 

Trump advocated for expanding domestic energy production through fossil fuels, reiterating the Republican “Drill, baby, drill,” mentality said in his inaugural address. He is supporting energy independence initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign sources. 

“A major focus of our fight to defeat inflation is rapidly reducing the cost of energy. The previous administration cut the number of new oil and gas leases by 95%, slowed pipeline construction to a halt, and closed more than 100 power plants. We are opening up many of those power plants right now,” Trump said.

Health: 

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is pushing the “Make America Healthy Again,” commission which seeks to eliminate toxins, improve nutrition, preserve natural habitats and fight the chronic disease epidemic. 

Trump expressed the U.S. is a lot healthier than he anticipated, but “Our goal is to get toxins out of our environment, poisons out of our food supply, and keep our children healthy and strong.” 

And, he ultimately does not support government assisted systems like the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid and Medicare.

Education: 

Trump proposed a major overhaul of education, focusing on school choice, cutting federal oversight of public schools, removing the discussion of certain topics like critical race theory, and encouraging private sector involvement. 

Trump said, “Because we’re getting wokeness out of our schools and out of our military, and it’s already out, and it’s out of our society. We don’t want it. Wokeness is trouble. Wokeness is bad. It’s gone.”

Law and Order: 

Trump emphasized his commitments to various initiatives. Including, he said “I’ve already signed an executive order requiring a mandatory death penalty for anyone who murders a police officer … I’m also asking for a new crime bill getting tougher on repeat offenders while enhancing protections for America’s police officers so they can do their jobs without fear of their lives being totally destroyed.”

Immigration and Border Control:

Trump said, “Over the past four years, 21 million people poured into the United States, many of them were murderers, human traffickers, gang members, and other criminals from the streets of dangerous cities all throughout the world because of Joe Biden’s insane and very dangerous open border policies.”

He has continued supporting “sweeping border and immigration crackdown.” He mentioned the “Gold Card” again which will allow for wealthy people to gain a pathway to U.S. citizenship by buying a “sophisticated” green-card for $5 million.

Foreign Policy and International Relations:

Much of this policy area was focused on tariffs and trade. Trump said “Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn to start using them against those other countries. On average, the European Union, China, Brazil, India, Mexico and Canada … And countless other nations charge us tremendously higher tariffs than we charge them.”

He briefly mentioned situations in the Middle East, and bringing hostages back from Gaza, and working “tirelessly” to rectify the situation in Ukraine. 

Photo by The White House.

In the first six weeks of Trump’s second term, he has set the tone as both an inspiring leader or a president getting away with executive overreach, depending on a person’s political stance. 

His speech ultimately reflected his approach to running for re-election: presenting a vision of returning to policies from his first term while pushing more hardline positions on issues such as immigration, crime, and trade. 

He framed his economic agenda as a continuation of the tax cuts and deregulation efforts that defined his first term, vowing to extend the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and further reduce federal regulations to spur business growth. Related to both economy, domestic and foreign affairs, Trump’s tariffs have been a beacon for a stark shift in U.S. foreign policy with hopes to bolster American industries and workers. 

On immigration, he pledged to implement what he called the most aggressive border security measures in U.S. history, enforcing stricter penalties for those who overstay visas and harsher consequences for sanctuary cities that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

Whether this latest episode of Keeping Up With Trumpians will serve as a defining moment in his bid for an unconstitutional third term or a further flashpoint in an already polarized nation remains to be seen. However, his rhetoric suggests that he is positioning the Trump legacy.

Returning for his second term, enduring controversies and disagreements in the four years since Biden’s swearing in, Trump maintained his promise that he would be in office once again to fulfill the “Make America Great Again,” vision.

With record breaking cold temperatures and windchill factor in Washington due to an Arctic blast hitting the US, the swearing in process took place inside the Capitol Rotunda instead of outside in front of Capitol Hill as usual.

US Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., gave the opening remarks at the ceremony. She called the theme of the inauguration an “enduring democracy,” by urging citizens to find the importance of common ground as the new administration steps in. She welcomed notable attendees, including former presidents and vice presidents, Supreme Court justices, and their corresponding families. 

The inauguration day invocation was given by Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan, the archbishop of New York, and Rev. Franklin Graham.

Vice President J.D. Vance took the oath of office administered by Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Following Vance, Trump took the oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. Both Vance and Trump were surrounded by their wives and children.

Following the oath of office, Trump gave his first speech as President again. The inaugural address spanned about 30 minutes, about double the time as his 2017 address. The theme of Trump’s speech emphasized his phrases claiming “America’s decline is over,” and “The golden age of America begins right now.”

Trump claimed to have been “saved by God to make America great again,” referring to the two assassination attempts taking place during the 2024 campaign cycle.

After the visionary and more personal part of the speech concluded, Trump laid out a series of executive actions he plans to take, as soon as today, now having returned to office, such as:

1. Trump pledges to sign an executive order that will declare the border a national emergency. The intent of this is to begin the process of deporting millions of people. He stated that the Trump Administration will transition away from Biden’s immigration policies, deploy US troops to the border, and designate cartels at “foreign terrorist organizations.
2. Trump pledges to declare a “national energy emergency,” stating that he will appoint Cabinet members to address inflation, bring down costs, and “drill, baby, drill.” 
3. Regarding the Department of Efficiency, Trump will establish the External Revenue Service within the department for collecting taxes and tariffs from foreign companies.
4. Trump announced an executive order that will “end all government censorship and ‘bring back free speech to America.’”
5. Trump said under his administration, the federal government will stand on the position that there are two genders: male and female. 
6. Trump will reinstate all military members who were discharged for refusing to receive the COVID vaccine with full back pay.
7. Regarding a myriad of tasks, Trump claims he will change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. He will change the name of the highest peak in North America from Denali (a traditional Native Alaskan name) to Mount McKinley after William McKinley. He is determined to reassert US control over the Panama Canal from China. And, announced sending astronauts to Mars to plant US flags – claiming it part of American “manifest destiny.” 

Trump wrapped up his speech with confidence. Confidence of the American people, stating that the “people have spoken,” and confidence in his administration, asserting “We are going to win like never before.” 

After the speech, Carrie Underwood sang “America the Beautiful,” and Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman and Rev. Father Frank Mann gave the inauguration’s benediction.

Post-inauguration, Trump hopes to sign about 100 executive orders on the first day of his presidential comeback. There even is a desk ready in the Capital One Arena, where some of the inaugural activities took place, for him to have a place to begin signing orders right away.

As for Biden, he alongside his wife Jill Biden will engage in the traditional send-off ceremony where the outgoing president and first lady do a flyover of the capital city. Short-term, plans thus far show the Bidens will travel to central California for some personal time. 

In Biden’s final weeks as president, he focused on a series of actions. Some of them include:

1. Biden pardoned several individuals such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, members of the January 6th investigative committee, and even his own family members.
2. He signed several executive orders on strengthening cybersecurity, artificial intelligence infrastructure, establishing order of successions within various Departments, and taking additional steps in the situations in Syria and the Western Balkans.
3. Biden approved the final student loan relief which forgave $600 million in debt. 
4. He declared the Equal Rights Amendment as law of the land, which would make it the 28th Amendment, though the status of it actually being part of the Constitution is currently in a grey area. 
5. Biden issued a ban on new offshore oil and gas drilling in hopes of protecting US coastal waters. 

On Jan. 15, Biden delivered his farewell address which reflected on his 50-year political career along with his single-term presidency and warned of the hurdles that are to come with the Trump Administration. He noted the ceasefire agreement and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, and highlighted that this administration is made up of a few “ultra-wealthy,” people. 

Biden highlighted wins in the economy, climate change and infrastructure. Details of these wins include:

1. The administration created nearly 17 million jobs domestically. 
2. More people have access to health care than before.
3. Strengthening the North Atlantic Treaty Agreement, and pulling ahead in the competition with China. 

Biden gave the Trump Administration a vote of confidence and wants the US to succeed by stating, “That’s why I’ve upheld my duty to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition of power, to ensure we lead by the power of our example,” he said. “I have no doubt that America is in a position to continue to succeed.”

The inauguration of Trump as the 47th president marks not only the return of a controversial figure to the highest office but also the beginning of a dramatically different chapter in American governance. Trump’s ambitious agenda, outlined in his fiery inaugural address, sets the stage for sweeping changes across immigration, energy, free speech, and more.

As the US enters this new era, the contrasts between these two leaders—their visions, priorities, and approaches—will likely define the political and cultural discourse for years to come. What remains to be seen is how the nation navigates this pivotal moment and whether the promises of both past and present administrations will come to fruition.

Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records on May 30 by the Manhattan Criminal Court. The falsified records were “to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Storym Dnaiels ahead of the 2016 presidential election.”

On Jan. 9, the US Supreme Court ruled 5-4, denying Trump’s request to delay the hush money sentencing. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett along with the Democrat justices joined in on the decision to ensure the sentencing followed as scheduled.

Trump joined the sentencing via videoconference from his residence in Mar-a-Lago, FL. He described the case as a “witch hunt” and “fake”, emphasized his innocence, and expressed the proceedings as politically motivated.

On Friday, Trump said, “After spending tens of millions of dollars, wasting over six years of obsessive work that should have been spent on protecting New Yorkers from violent, rampant crime that is destroying the City and State, coordinating with the Biden/Harris department of injustice in lawless weaponization, and bringing completely baseless, illegal, and fake charges against your 45th and 47th president, me, I was given an unconditional discharge,” according to Politico.

On Friday, Merchan told the president-elect “that it was the office of the presidency – and not the occupant – that was afforded extraordinary legal protections requiring him to impose a sentence of unconditional discharge without any punishment.”

Even though Trump received unconditional discharge, exempting him from typical sentencing results such paying a fine or performing community service – because the felonies are on his criminal record, certain rights as a US citizen can be affected. 

Trump remains with his right to vote because he is registered in Florida which allows for convicted felons to vote once they have completed their sentence. He was charged in New York, but similarly the state restores a person’s right to vote after a person is released from serving.

Per federal law, Trump will not be able to possess a firearm as a convicted felon. 

Trump will be admitted to New York’s crime database because New York requires every convicted felon to provide a DNA sample. These are collected some time after sentencing.

Although some states have laws prohibiting a person with a criminal record from running for state and local office, there is no federal law that prevents someone convicted of a crime from running and then holding office. This makes it possible for Trump to move forward with being elected for a second term.

Some countries like Canada, Israel, and the United Kingdom reserve the right to prohibit visits by convicted felons, but also people sometimes have their passports revoked and requests denied. Because of Trump’s status as a former and re-elected president, he holds a diplomatic passport and will keep his other passports which will allow him to continue travels outside the US.

Outside of office, his business endeavors are not projected to be harmed by the felon status being that his company has stated the properties and business are all owned through corporate entities. Though, it is suggested that liquor licenses at certain establishments of his could be revoked.

Since Trump was tried in a state court having violated state law, he would not be able to pardon himself. Presidential pardons pertain to federal crimes, so only the New York governor has the authority to pardon Trump’s conviction.

Trump’s legal team has hinted at plans to appeal the conviction after his inauguration to New York’s Appellate Division then the New York State Court of Appeals. 

Despite Trump’s felony conviction, Merchan’s sentencing will allow for Trump to be inaugurated for his second presidential term on Jan. 20. 

Specifically, three Republican representatives caused Johnson’s re-election to be narrower than initially anticipated. Texas Representative Keith Self, Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie and South Carolina Representative Ralph Norman – all hard-right conservatives – held out the vote initially. 

Johnson is said to have spoken with Self and Norman in private. When the second vote was conducted, both representatives then voted in favor of Johnson.

Although there were Republican holdouts within the House, President-elect Donald Trump supported Johnson’s re-election and stated it was an “unprecedented vote of confidence in Congress” and that “America will be greater than ever before.”

Political analysts speculate that Trump’s presidential win bolstered the ability for Johnson to get re-elected. 

Johnson is known for his conservative views, and is eager to manage these views even in a narrow Republican-leaning House majority. Given the current political environment, it is likely that his leadership will continue to reflect and promote right-leaning policies, particularly in areas like fiscal conservatism, immigration reform, and opposition to the legislative priorities previously pushed through during the Biden administration.

As a staunch pro-life advocate, he has worked to restrict abortion access, opposing efforts to codify abortion rights and advocating for constitutional amendments to protect the unborn. Additionally, his opposition to same-sex marriage aligns with his efforts in going against bills that would have expanded protections for LGBTQ+ rights.

In terms of fiscal policy, Johnson has been advocating for cuts to federal spending and stronger fiscal discipline. He stated in a social media post, “The American people have demanded an end to the status quo, and a return to fiscal sanity … if we don’t follow through on our campaign promise for fiscal responsibility, we don’t deserve to hold power.” He has intentions to work closely with the Department of Efficiency, “review existing audits of federal spending,” and conduct head-on reviews of government agencies’ spending.

Johnson is also expected to prioritize border security, with Johnson advocating for stronger enforcement against illegal immigration and emphasizing the need for a physical border wall. 

As speaker, Johnson faces the challenge of leading a divided House. Although Republicans hold a majority, the narrowness of his re-election underscores the internal friction within his party, particularly between moderates and hard-right. 

January: Fiscal responsibility, State of the Union address, climate change, & Democrat and Republican Iowa Caucuses

Congress began the year negotiating adjustments to the debt ceiling agreement from 2023 to address government spending limits. Early debates shaped fiscal priorities throughout the year.

President Joe Biden delivered his annual State of the Union address, focusing on economic recovery, health care improvements, and foreign policy initiatives.

The White House paused all pending export permits for liquefied natural gas until the Department of Energy gathered further information on its impact on climate change.

The 2024 Iowa caucuses marked the start of the presidential primary season, setting the stage for the general election. These initial contests in Iowa played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectories of both parties’ nomination processes, influencing campaign strategies and voter engagement as the nation moved toward the 2024 presidential election.

• Republican Caucus: Held on Jan. 15, the Republican caucus reaffirmed former President Trump’s dominance within the party. Trump secured a decisive victory, achieving the largest margin of victory for a non-incumbent in Iowa’s caucus history. This substantial win solidified his status as the Republican frontrunner, propelling his campaign forward with significant momentum. 
• Democratic Caucus: The Democratic caucus process in Iowa underwent notable changes in 2024. In-person caucusing, focusing solely on party business, took place on Jan. 15. However, the selection of presidential candidates was conducted exclusively through mail-in ballots, with voting commencing on Jan. 12 and concluding on Super Tuesday, Mar. 5. This adjustment was a compromise between the Iowa Democratic Party and the Democratic National Committee, aiming to balance Iowa’s traditional early voting status with the national party’s revised primary calendar. 

February: Aid for conflict zones, healthcare reform, & global diplomacy with Kenya and Israel–Hamas

The US Senate passed a $95 billion emergency funding bill to support Ukraine, Israel – mainly the Israel Defense Forces, and set aside $10 billion for humanitarian aid.

The President introduced a comprehensive plan to lower prescription drug costs and expand healthcare coverage.

Biden hosted foreign leaders to strengthen international alliances and address global challenges. This included Kenya to build upon US–Africa relations which focuses on increasing economy, peace, and security within Kenya and externally. And, Biden heavily focused attention on ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to attempt to bring stability to Palestinians in Gaza.

March: Select states begin primary elections & decarbonizing energy

The presidential primary season began with early contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, setting the stage for intense competition among candidates. For Republicans, the Iowa caucus solidified Trump’s status as the frontrunner, boosting his momentum heading into later primaries. On the Democratic side, the unique mail-in voting process in Iowa marked a shift in how states approach primary elections under revised party rules. These early elections shaped the race by narrowing the field, rallying party bases, and focusing media attention on key issues, all while candidates scrambled to secure delegates for their party’s nomination.

Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda partnered with the Department of Energy announced a $6 billion plan that included 33 projects across 20 states to “decarbonize energy-intensive industries, reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions, support good-paying union jobs, revitalize industrial communities, and strengthen the nation’s manufacturing competitiveness.” Backed by funding from the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, these projects aim to create and sustain tens of thousands of high-quality jobs while advancing the commercial-scale demonstration of innovative industrial decarbonization technologies essential to achieving the Biden-Harris administration’s climate and domestic manufacturing objectives.

April: New York v. Donald Trump trial begins, gun violence, & student debt relief proposal 

Before the conviction in the New York v. Donald Trump trial, significant legal proceedings unfolded, highlighting allegations of falsifying business records and financial misconduct. Throughout the trial, Trump’s legal team sought to challenge the credibility of witnesses and evidence while framing the proceedings as an attack on his political career. The high-profile nature of the trial drew extensive media coverage, further intensifying public and political discourse.

• In the criminal case related to hush money payments, prosecutors argued that Trump orchestrated a scheme to cover up damaging information during the 2016 presidential campaign by falsifying business records to conceal the true nature of the payments. The trial featured testimony from key witnesses, including former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, who detailed his role in facilitating the payments. Trump’s defense claimed the charges were politically motivated and lacked legal merit.
• In the civil fraud case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, the state alleged that Trump, his children, and the Trump Organization inflated asset values to secure favorable loans and deflated them to reduce tax obligations. Evidence presented included financial documents and testimony from financial experts. The court scrutinized decades of business practices, with the state arguing that the fraudulent activities were systematic and intentional.

In response to rising gun violence, Biden announced executive actions to enhance background checks and regulate ghost guns. This was known as closing the “gun-show loophole” which has typically allowed the sale of guns without background checks outside of brick-and-mortar stores – this would no longer be allowed and once signed took 30 days to take effect. This ruling was part of a 2022 provision of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which states, “requires that anyone who sells guns for profit to have a license and that buyers be subject to a background check, including at firearms shows and flea markets.”

Biden unveiled a new widespread student debt forgiveness plan that was anticipated to assist 30 million borrowers “erase some or all of their college loans.” The Supreme Court blocked Biden’s previous attempt in 2023, so this plan differentiates itself by relying on a different law to provide debt relief. According to CBS, “The new plan turns to an older law, the Higher Education Act, which allows the Secretary of Education to ‘compromise, waive or release’ federal student loans. It’s through this mechanism that the Biden administration is tackling its new debt relief program.”

May: Trump found guilty in court of 34 felonies & widespread protests amongst college campuses

Trump faced legal challenges in New York, resulting in both criminal and civil convictions. These legal proceedings have significantly impacted Trump’s business operations and political aspirations, though he ultimately secured the presidency for a second term, the legal challenges underscores a unique set of challenges he will face as a leader during but also post-presidency.

• Criminal Trial: Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during the 2016 presidential campaign. The jury found that these payments were part of a scheme to conceal damaging information from voters. This conviction marked the first time a former U.S. president was found guilty of felony crimes. 
• Civil Fraud Case: In Feb., a New York State Supreme Court judge ruled in favor of Attorney General Letitia James in a civil fraud case against Trump, his associates, and the Trump Organization. The court ordered the defendants to pay over $450 million, including $363.8 million in disgorgement and prejudgment interest, for fraudulent activities. 

Several universities testified before Congress about their institutional response to campus protests with regard to the Israel-Gaza war. University presidents included Northwestern University, University of California–Los Angeles, and Rutgers University – though more than 130 colleges and 3,000 students across the country have participated in campus wide protests. The committee hearing was organized to question university leadership “on what concessions were made to get students to reduce or disband protest camps,” along with seeking answers to how antisemitism was addressed. Two previous hearings resulted in two university heads stepping down. The House was attempting to be intentful in protecting the first amendment right to speech and assembly.

June: Primary elections concluded, gun crisis, & pollution clean-up

The primary elections for both major political parties were nearing completion, with most states having held their contests. On the Republican side, Trump continued to dominate, securing a commanding lead in delegates, despite challenges from other candidates. In the Democratic race, Biden, facing limited competition, solidified his position as the party’s nominee. The primaries and caucuses throughout the spring of 2024 helped to shape the final nominations for both parties, setting the stage for the general election campaigns that would intensify through the summer. 

Following high-profile mass shootings earlier in the year, the US Surgeon General declared firearm violence a public health crisis. According to the advisory, “Research shows that gun-related suicides—which encompass the majority of all firearm-related deaths—has increased by 45% for people aged 15-24 and 68% for children aged 10-14 from 2012 to 2022.” This led to an increased call for action for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, showing that progress can be made to protect Americans whilst maintaining the second amendment. 

The White House partnered with the Department of the Interior and announced $725 million to Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda to clean up legacy pollution. The programming is available to 22 states, and is the third allotment of a $11.3 billion plan. According to the Department, “Communities once powered by the coal industry are now polluted by abandoned mine lands, which leach toxic discharge into lands and waterways, cause land subsidence and structural issues, and fuel underground mine fires. This funding will ensure that coal communities are not left behind, but rather revitalized by the jobs created for displaced coal workers, economic opportunity, and clean air and water provided by these cleanup projects.”

July: First Trump assassination attempt, Republican National Convention in Milwaukee solidifying Trump as party’s candidate & JD Vance as running mate, Biden steps down from re-election campaign, & Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial visit to Congress

On July 13, at a campaign rally near Butler, Pennsylvania, a man fired multiple shots toward the stage where Trump was speaking. One bullet grazed Trump’s right ear, and the assailant, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service agents. The attack resulted in the death of one attendee and critical injuries to two others.

At the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, former President Trump was officially nominated as the party’s presidential candidate, solidifying his position for the upcoming election. In a strategic move to appeal to working-class voters, Trump selected Senator JD Vance of Ohio as his vice-presidential running mate. Vance, known for his advocacy on economic issues and his personal narrative of overcoming adversity, delivered a compelling acceptance speech, emphasizing his commitment to revitalizing American manufacturing and supporting the working class. This pairing aimed to strengthen the Republican ticket by combining Trump’s established political presence with Vance’s populist appeal.

Biden withdrew from the presidential race, citing concerns that an intra party battle over his candidacy would be a “real distraction” for Democrats. His decision followed mounting pressure from within the Democratic Party, particularly after a poorly received debate performance against Trump, which raised concerns about his age and mental fitness. Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Biden’s withdrawal marked a significant shift in the 2024 election landscape, leading to a reevaluation of campaign strategies and voter engagement efforts within the Democratic Party.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress, delivering a speech that sparked significant controversy. During his address, Netanyahu warned that “America is next” if the U.S. fails to support Israel against Iran’s “axis of terror” in the Middle East. This visit underscored the complex and often contentious nature of US–Israel relations, highlighting the challenges in balancing support for an ally with addressing humanitarian concerns in the region. The speech was met with mixed reactions:

• Boycotts and Protests: A notable number of Democratic lawmakers chose to boycott the speech, reflecting internal party divisions over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Additionally, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered in Washington, DC, leading to heightened security measures around the Capitol.
• Support and Criticism: While many Republicans and some Democrats expressed support for Netanyahu’s stance, others criticized his rhetoric and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which had resulted in significant Palestinian casualties. 

August: Democratic National Convention in Chicago placing Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s new candidate & Tim Walz running mate

The Democratic National Convention in Chicago marked a pivotal moment in the party’s history. Vice President Harris was officially nominated as the Democratic candidate for President, becoming the first Black and Indian woman to lead a major US political party. In a strategic move to appeal to working-class voters, Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate. Walz, a former high school teacher and football coach, emphasized his commitment to education and public service during his acceptance speech. The convention featured speeches from prominent Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket. The event underscored the party’s dedication to inclusivity and progressivism, setting the stage for the general election campaign.

September: Harris v. Trump presidential debate, second Trump assassination attempt, federal budget, & United Nations

On Sept. 10, Harris and Trump engaged in their first presidential debate at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The 90-minute event, moderated by ABC News, covered key topics including abortion, the economy, foreign policy, and immigration. Key highlights include:

• Abortion Rights: Harris emphasized the importance of protecting reproductive rights, pledging to sign a bill reinstating the protections of Roe v. Wade. In contrast, Trump celebrated the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, advocating for states’ rights to determine abortion laws. 
• Election Integrity: Harris criticized Trump for not accepting the results of the 2020 election, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic processes. Trump, however, maintained his stance on election integrity, suggesting that the 2020 election was fraudulent. 
• Foreign Policy: Harris supported a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, advocating for peaceful coexistence. Trump, on the other hand, predicted Israel’s downfall under Harris’s presidency, reflecting his more unilateral approach to foreign relations. 
• Immigration and National Security: Trump criticized the current administration’s handling of immigration and national security, while Harris labeled him unfit based on advice from past security advisors. 

The debate was marked by Harris’s confident demeanor, effectively putting Trump on the defensive and presenting him as a figure of the past. Post-debate polls indicated a strong performance by Harris, with many viewers perceiving her as the winner. However, the impact of the debate on the overall election outcome remains uncertain, as voters continue to evaluate the candidates’ positions and campaign strategies.

On Sept. 15 at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, a Secret Service agent noticed a rifle barrel protruding from the bushes. The agent fired in that direction, causing the suspect, 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, to flee, leaving behind an SKS-style rifle. Routh was apprehended shortly after while driving on Interstate 95. He faces charges including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate and is being held without bail.

Federal Budget for FY 2025: Congress passed a continuing resolution to fund the government and avoid a shutdown, with final budget approval delayed to October. Key debates focused on defense spending and social welfare programs.

Biden addressed the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on climate change, global health, and human rights. Biden reiterated competition with China, highlighted US aid to Ukraine, and urged focus on collaboration to address global challenges. 

October: Vance v. Walz vice presidential debate

On Oct. 1 Vance and Walz participated in the vice-presidential debate at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City. The debate, moderated by CBS News, focused on key issues such as climate change, immigration, and economic policies. Key highlights included:

• Climate Change: Vance questioned the role of carbon emissions in climate change, suggesting that the science is not settled. In contrast, Walz emphasized the importance of investing in clean energy to address environmental challenges. 
• Immigration: Vance deflected questions about Trump’s mass deportation plans, while Walz advocated for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship. 
• Economic Policies: Vance criticized expert opinions on Trump’s economic proposals, suggesting that they would lead to job losses. Walz supported Harris’s policies, arguing that they would create jobs and strengthen the economy. 

The debate was characterized by a civil and policy-focused exchange, with both candidates presenting their respective party’s positions. Post-debate analysis indicated a close contest, with some polls showing Vance slightly ahead, while others considered the debate a tie. 

November: Re-election of President Donald Trump, Republicans sweep the national elections taking majority in the House, Senate, and state governorships

At the conclusion of the 2024 General Election, Trump was re-elected for a second term, marking a significant political moment. Alongside his victory, the Republican Party achieved a sweeping success across the nation. Republicans regained control of the House of Representatives, securing a majority that would shape the legislative agenda for the next four years. In addition, the GOP took control of the Senate, consolidating their power in both chambers of Congress. The party also made significant gains in state elections, winning numerous governorships and further expanding their influence at the state level. This Republican triumph signified a strong political shift, positioning the party to advance its policies on a national and local scale.

Several factors contributed to the analysis and predictions surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris’s defeat. While Biden had a strong base of support, Harris’s performance during the campaign drew criticism and raised concerns among some voters and political analysts.

1. Low Approval Ratings and Perception of Inexperience: Harris had struggled with low approval ratings for much of her tenure as Vice President. Her handling of high-profile issues, such as immigration and the border crisis, was often criticized. Some voters perceived her as inexperienced or ineffective, leading to questions about her readiness to step into the presidency should she need to assume that role.
2. Challenges with Voter Outreach: Harris’s ability to connect with key voter groups, especially in swing states, was also a point of concern. Although she was popular among certain demographics, her broader appeal was more limited compared to other potential Democratic candidates. Her campaign’s messaging often lacked clarity, which led to a sense of disconnection among more moderate or independent voters.
3. Competition from the Republican Party: The Republican Party, particularly under Trump’s leadership, rallied a significant base, capitalizing on economic frustrations, rising crime rates, and dissatisfaction with progressive policies. Trump’s populist appeal and aggressive campaigning made him a formidable opponent. Additionally, his alignment with the desires of many conservative and working-class Americans played a large role in uniting the Republican base.

December: Hunter Biden is pardoned along with many others, Trump’s cabinet picks revealed, Passing of President Jimmy Carter, Angola, & defense bill disagreements

Biden issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to ongoing legal issues surrounding his business dealings and tax violations. The pardon came after H. Biden pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges for failing to pay taxes in a timely manner. The decision sparked controversy, with critics accusing the Bidens of political favoritism, while supporters argued that it was a necessary step for justice and closure. The pardon was seen as part of the broader political dynamics during a tense election year, further fueling debates on the fairness of legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures.

Biden proceeded to announce a ground-breaking 1,500 commutations and 39 pardons making it the “largest single-day act of clemency in US history.” 

Trump’s cabinet picks for his anticipated second term have drawn significant attention, especially with the addition of a new department: the Department of Government Efficiency. These picks reflect Trump’s approach to governance: a blend of returning trusted allies from his first term and introducing bold new initiatives, such as the Department of Government Efficiency, which seeks to streamline government operations and reduce waste. The selections emphasize a strong, nationalistic, pro-business agenda, with a focus on reducing regulation, bolstering security, and reshaping federal programs to be more efficient. Here’s a breakdown of his key cabinet selections and their roles, though some are still changing:

• Secretary of State: Marco Rubio
• Secretary of the Treasury: Scott Bessent
• Secretary of Defense: Michael Duffey
• Secretary of Homeland Security: Kristi Noem
• Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins 
• Secretary of Education: Linda McMahon
• Secretary of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer
• Department of Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy
• Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy

Former President Jimmy Carter passed away on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, marking the end of an era for one of the most beloved and longest-living U.S. presidents. Carter, who served as the 39th President from 1977 to 1981, was known for his advocacy of human rights, efforts to combat disease and poverty, and his post-presidency humanitarian work. After his presidency, Carter focused on global peace, public health, and social justice through the Carter Center, which he co-founded. His passing came after a long battle with health issues, including a recent diagnosis of terminal brain cancer. Carter’s legacy includes the Camp David Accords, his work with Habitat for Humanity, and his Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his tireless humanitarian efforts. His death was met with tributes from around the world, honoring his commitment to global peace, equality, and his lasting influence on U.S. and world affairs.

Biden made his first presidential visit to Angola, meeting with President João Lourenço to discuss foreign investment and defense cooperation. 

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): The $895 billion NDAA included a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted troops and restrictions on certain types of transgender healthcare coverage under Tricare. The bill received bipartisan support but faced criticism over controversial provisions. 

Looking ahead to 2025 

2024 has been a year of significant political developments, marked by twists, turns, and debates across a range of issues. The United States now approaches an unprecedented period of governance as the new presidential administration prepares to take office on Jan. 20, 2025, bringing the 2024 political season to a close.

Trudeau’s approval ratings have been decreasing due to issues such as inflation, housing shortages, and high food prices. This has caused unrest amongst members of parliament of the Liberal Party, with some pushing for his resignation. Trudeau has stated he has no plans to leave his position and emphasized his commitment to Canada.

Additional concerns are on the rise with the recent election results in the United States, particularly with regard to President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports. Trump’s reasoning for the tariff includes concern over illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

Economic experts warn that the tariff could harm both economies, potentially leading to increased consumer prices and trade disruptions – causing major worries with the existing Canadian economic landscape.

The US is Canada’s largest trading partner and largest source of foreign investment with the US accounting for 63.4% of Canada’s global trade in 2022.

With Canada facing an internal economic unrest, Canadian officials are committed to deter Trump’s plan for a 25% tariff, as Canada will be vulnerable to shifts in US economic policy. The Canadian government could work on diversifying trade relationships, therefore reducing reliance on a single partner, but as of now is placing significant efforts on addressing internal and external (Trump’s) concerns. 

In response to Trump’s concerns, the Canadian government has proposed a C$1.3 billion ($900m; £700m) enhanced border security plan. This includes a 24/7 aerial surveillance with drones, installing surveillance towers along the border, and creation of a joint strike force with US authorities to address cross-border crime.

On Friday, Canadian ministers, including Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, met with Trump administration officials in Mar-a-Lago, Florida – location of Trump’s residency – to address concerns of what the tariff could do and negotiate a resolution. The meetings included Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick and Interior Department nominee Doug Burgum who agreed to relay the information to Trump.

According to Politico, “Both Ministers outlined the measures in Canada’s Border Plan and reiterated the shared commitment to strengthen border security as well as combat the harm caused by fentanyl to save Canadian and American lives.”

The Trudeau administration is attempting to prioritize key legislation that will address affordability, such as through a national grocery code of conduct and targeted benefits for renters and families with children.

Opposition parties are pressuring for stronger measures to address the country’s economic state. Some examples include calls for increased fiscal transparency, reductions in government spending, expanded tax relief for middle- and low-income families, and enhanced support for small businesses to stimulate growth.

Canada’s next federal election will take place in October 2025. Trudeau is hoping to secure an unprecedented fourth term, with no prime minister in the last 100 years securing four consecutive terms. This is anticipated to be a difficult task if the trajectory of economic difficulties continues to surge in 2025.

The bill was originally 1,527 pages but was shortened to 118 pages by the time of passage. The House passed the bill 366-34 followed by the Senate vote 85-11. 

The reasons for the prolonged showdown include partisan divisions; with Democrats prioritizing social programs and Republicans proposing spending reductions, tensions within the Republican party on compromising with Democrats, last minute budget proposals – specifically proposed by president elect Donald Trump, disagreements on whether to include policies to address to the debt ceiling, and continuous disputes on issues like energy and immigration.

According to the New York Post, “Trump and his Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk objected Thursday to what they called a bloated initial funding package.”

Some of the specific approved provisions in the budget include: not reauthorizing the U.S. State Department’s Global Engagement Centre since it “has been accused of pushing online censorship”, allocating $100 billion in disaster relief funds, and $10 billion in aid to farmers’ agricultural efforts. 

Congress chose to delay addressing the debt ceiling and to temporarily continue funding federal programs, as these issues are sources of heated debates both between and within the Democratic and Republican parties. The bill package included an extension until March 14, 2025 to allow Congress to provide a more comprehensive budget agreement. 

Nearly a million federal workers faced the prospect of unpaid furloughs during the holiday season, while essential services, like military operations and air traffic control, would have continued with workers unpaid. 

Ultimately, lawmakers struck a last-minute deal to keep the government open, avoiding a shutdown just hours before the deadline. This agreement reflected bipartisan compromise but left lingering questions about how Congress will address similar funding challenges in the future, particularly regarding long-term budget reforms and the debt ceiling – as the U.S. approaches a highly contentious second Trump administration.