Donald Trump’s first 48 hours in office were marked by a whirlwind of executive actions, signaling the beginning of what many predict will be a highly transformative—and controversial—presidency. From domestic policies to international signals, his early actions provide a glimpse into the administration’s priorities and the potential impact on Americans and the global community. Here’s what we learned:

Executive Orders Signed in the First 48 Hours

1. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Rollback
One of Trump’s first executive orders targeted the Affordable Care Act, directing federal agencies to “minimize the economic burden” of the law. While it didn’t repeal the ACA outright, this order instructed agencies to delay, defer, or waive certain regulations and penalties, signaling the administration’s intent to dismantle Obamacare.

Impact on Americans:
• Americans could face uncertainty in healthcare markets, especially those relying on ACA subsidies.
• Critics fear the move could lead to higher premiums or a lapse in coverage for millions.

2. Withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)
Trump signed an executive order officially withdrawing the U.S. from the TPP, fulfilling a key campaign promise.

Impact on Americans:
• This decision pleased some American workers and industries that felt threatened by overseas competition.
• However, it may limit access to new markets for U.S. exports, potentially affecting farmers and manufacturers reliant on global trade.

3. Federal Hiring Freeze
Another order imposed a freeze on federal hiring, with exemptions for military and public safety positions.

Impact on Americans:
• Proponents argue it reduces government spending and bureaucracy.
• Opponents warn it could slow essential services, like veterans’ benefits or Social Security administration.

4. Reinstatement of the “Mexico City Policy”
This policy bans U.S. federal funding for international NGOs that provide or promote abortion services, directly affecting foreign aid programs.

Impact on Americans:
• Domestically, it aligns with conservative values.
• Internationally, it could lead to reduced healthcare access in developing countries.

The Global Forecast: Four Years of Uncertainty?
Trump’s early actions sent ripples worldwide, highlighting a shift toward economic nationalism, a hardline stance on immigration, and a renegotiation of America’s role on the global stage. Here’s what the next four years could look like based on these first decisions:

1. Global Trade Tensions
The withdrawal from the TPP and Trump’s rhetoric about renegotiating NAFTA signal a protectionist stance. While this may benefit some American workers in the short term, it risks alienating key allies and trading partners, potentially leading to retaliatory measures.

2. Environmental Rollbacks
Though no formal action was taken in the first 48 hours, Trump’s appointments and campaign promises suggest significant deregulation in energy and environmental policies. A retreat from global climate agreements like the Paris Accord could isolate the U.S. diplomatically and economically.

3. Immigration and Border Policies
Trump’s campaign promise to build a border wall and restrict immigration looms large. Early hints at stricter immigration enforcement have already sparked protests and concerns among immigrant communities. Globally, such policies could strain relations with neighboring Mexico and countries reliant on migrant labor.

4. Foreign Relations Realignment
Trump’s focus on “America First” and his skepticism of international alliances could weaken traditional partnerships, including NATO. Meanwhile, his praise for authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin raises questions about the future of global democratic norms.

The Bottom Line
In just 48 hours, Donald Trump made it clear that his administration will focus on bold, often divisive actions. For the average American, these policies may lead to short-term wins for specific industries or groups, but they also introduce uncertainty—particularly in healthcare, international trade, and federal services. Globally, the outlook suggests a more isolated America, potentially disrupting decades-old alliances and norms.

While it’s too early to predict the full impact of Trump’s presidency, these initial moves have set a tone: rapid, dramatic, and unapologetically focused on reshaping America’s role at home and abroad. Over the next four years, Americans and the world will watch closely as the administration continues to chart its course.