In a historic resurgence of nationalist economic and political doctrine, President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025 has been anything but quiet. Within the first few months of his new term, the administration has launched a sweeping set of reforms focused on trade protectionism, immigration enforcement, and national identity.
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From a baseline 10% import tariff to new laws targeting undocumented immigrants and executive orders overturning DEIA mandates, the Trump administration has made clear its commitment to “America First” policies. These changes are already drawing stark praise and condemnation, setting the stage for what may be the most turbulent policy year in modern U.S. history.
10% Baseline Tariff by Trump
In early 2025, President Trump unveiled a new 10% baseline tariff on virtually all imported goods entering the United States. The White House stated this across-the-board import tax is designed to bolster domestic manufacturing, incentivize American consumers to “buy American,” and reduce the country’s dependency on foreign production.
However, this policy extends far beyond a flat tax. The administration also imposed higher tariffs on certain countries, reigniting trade tensions. Most notably:
- Chinese goods now face tariffs as high as 125%
- Canada and Mexico are hit with 25% tariffs on most products
- Canadian energy exports are taxed at a reduced rate of 10%
This change effectively overrides major provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), creating legal and economic uncertainty for North American businesses and trading partners. The administration briefly announced a 90-day pause on the highest-tier tariffs, excluding China, to allow for renegotiations. Still, many economists believe the new trade environment will spark inflation and retaliation from allies.
According to trade analysts at Yale University, the U.S. has now reached a historically high average effective import tax rate of 25.3%, the highest seen since the Taft Administration in 1909. Critics have dubbed this era the “Second Great Tariff War,” warning of potential global economic reverberations.
Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Expand to All Countries
In a related executive move, the Trump administration eliminated exemptions and quotas previously applied to steel and aluminum imports. As of March 12, 2025, a 25% tariff now applies to all foreign steel and aluminum—regardless of country of origin.
This decision is rooted in Trump’s desire to protect America’s “strategic materials industries.” The administration argues that reducing foreign metal imports will help revitalize U.S. industrial production, particularly in the Rust Belt. But the policy has sparked concern from international trading partners, including the European Union and Japan, who have threatened countermeasures.
Domestic industries relying on affordable steel—such as auto manufacturers, construction firms, and aerospace contractors—are bracing for higher input costs, potentially driving up consumer prices nationwide.
Executive Order 14245: Trade Penalty for Venezuela Supporters
In another strategic escalation, Executive Order 14245 introduced a 25% tariff on all goods imported from countries that continue to purchase oil from Venezuela. This measure is aimed at countries supporting the Maduro regime and signals a hardline stance against socialist governments in Latin America.
The policy is controversial. Some geopolitical analysts warn it could alienate U.S. allies in South America and Europe who rely on Venezuelan crude. Yet the Trump administration defends the move as a calculated effort to weaken oppressive regimes and reward democratic partners.
Laken Riley Act: Tougher Immigration Detention Mandates
On the legislative front, immigration laws have undergone a significant shift with the passing of the Laken Riley Act in January 2025. Named after a University of Georgia nursing student who was tragically murdered, the law mandates the immediate detention of undocumented immigrants who are charged with theft or violent crimes.
In addition, the law enables state governments to sue the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) if they fail to enforce immigration laws.
Supporters, including many within the Trump voter base, say the law empowers law enforcement and ensures accountability in federal agencies. However, civil rights groups and progressive lawmakers argue that it promotes racial profiling, undermines due process, and may lead to overcrowded detention facilities.
This act represents a core part of Trump’s pledge to “restore law and order,” a message that continues to resonate deeply with his supporters in rural and conservative areas.
Executive Order 14173: Elimination of Federal DEIA Programs
In January, Trump signed Executive Order 14173, effectively ending federal requirements for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives in government contracting.
The order reverses Obama- and Biden-era policies that mandated DEIA compliance for federal contractors, instead centralizing all anti-discrimination enforcement under the Department of Labor. The administration argues that the move promotes neutrality and meritocracy in government hiring.
However, critics view this decision as a direct attack on marginalized communities. Civil rights organizations warn that without institutional support for DEIA, historically underrepresented groups will face steeper barriers to federal employment and contracting opportunities.
Executive Order 14224: English Becomes Official Language of the U.S.
Perhaps one of the most culturally divisive orders of 2025, Executive Order 14224 officially designates English as the sole language of the United States federal government. The order repeals requirements for federal agencies to offer multilingual services, including in healthcare, legal, and educational communications.
The administration claims this measure will cut costs, streamline communication, and promote unity. Yet immigrant advocacy groups and bilingual communities have responded with outrage, calling it discriminatory and exclusionary. Legal challenges are already being prepared in several states with large immigrant populations.
Global Repercussions and National Divide
Trump’s 2025 policy blitz has drawn both applause and criticism from global leaders, economists, and the American public. Supporters celebrate the renewed emphasis on self-reliance and national pride. Detractors argue that these decisions have isolated the U.S. on the world stage, ignited trade wars, and deepened domestic divisions.
While it is too early to determine the full economic and social impact, one thing is clear: the Trump administration’s second term is anything but conventional. With new legislation, tariffs, and executive actions reshaping every corner of American policy, 2025 has already proven to be a transformative—and polarizing—year.