As President-elect of the United States Donald Trump prepares for his return to the White House, his second term promises to bring sweeping changes to many critical aspects of American life, with significant implications not only for the United States, but also for world affairs. From reproductive rights to immigration policy, LGBTQ+ protections, environmental standards and gun laws, the direction of the country will be radically reshaped under his leadership.

The right to abortion threatened

One of the most important issues is access to abortion. With the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court in 2022, several states have already passed near-total bans on abortion. Less than a second Asset administration, there is concern that federal restrictions could be imposed nationwide. Although Trump’s position on a national abortion ban remains unclear, his administration could use existing laws to impose a de facto national ban. Additionally, Trump could push to weaken key laws like the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), which currently protects access to emergency abortion.

Mass expulsions and immigration crackdown

Asset has promised to restore and expand its controversial immigration policies, with a focus on mass deportations. The GOP’s 2025 plan outlines plans to execute “the largest deportation operation in U.S. history.” This could include using U.S. troops to enforce borders and invoking war powers for immigration control. Although the details remain unclear, there are concerns that these policies could lead to widespread family separations and other hardships for immigrants.

Setback in LGBTQ+ rights

AssetThe president’s first term banned transgender people from serving in the military, and a second term is expected to bring even more aggressive actions against the LGBTQ+ community. His administration could push to end gender-affirming care and federal nondiscrimination policies protecting LGBTQ+ people. There could be proposals to limit legal recognition of trans people and promote “heterosexual and intact marriage” as a policy position. Marriage equality, which Trump has previously questioned, could be at risk if he gains the power to appoint more conservative justices to the Supreme Court.

Environmental setbacks

AssetThe European Union’s position on climate change remains a major concern for environmental advocates. During his first term, he withdrew the United States from the Paris climate accords, and is expected to undermine additional efforts to resolve the climate crisis during a second term. With plans to expand fossil fuel industries and repeal regulations aimed at reducing emissions, Trump’s environmental policies could block progress in the fight against climate change. Continued growth in emissions could accelerate global warming, especially as Trump has called climate change a “hoax” and promoted “drill, baby, drill” policies.

Gun control laws under threat

There could be a rollback of progress made under President Joe Biden, particularly the first major federal gun safety law in nearly three decades. AssetBiden’s second term could undo several Biden efforts, including expanding background checks and other protections designed to combat gun violence. This could lead to a new wave of uncontrolled gun violence across the country.

Military takeovers of cities

Perhaps one of the most alarming aspects of Trump’s second-term agenda is his potential use of federal power to override local governments. He has threatened to use his presidential powers to take control of cities run by Democratic leaders and deploy federal agents to enforce mass evictions. Trump also indicated he would unilaterally use the National Guard to respond to urban protests. This has raised concerns about the erosion of local autonomy and the potential for increased militarization of American cities.