As January 20th 2025 approaches and Donald Trump prepares to return to the presidency, social policies are once again taking center stage in national conversations. Trump’s first term saw bold moves that significantly impacted healthcare, welfare and immigration policies and reshaped how Americans experienced government support and services. His second term promises even bolder changes so what can Americans expect this time?
His first term
Looking back, Trump’s first presidency was marked by significant attempts to overhaul social policies. His administration made numerous efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act with the aim of limiting federal involvement in healthcare. While these efforts fell short of their target, one major change did occur – the elimination of the individual mandate penalty which weakened the federal push for mandatory health insurance. For some, this represented freedom of choice while for others, it risked leaving millions uninsured.
In the area of welfare, Trump’s administration introduced stricter work requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients in a policy that was designed to limit dependency on government assistance. Although these changes were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the proposal signaled Trump’s broader intention to tighten access to public assistance programs.
Immigration, often closely tied to social policy, also saw dramatic shifts. The controversial family separation policy at the southern border and the travel ban that targeted several Muslim-majority countries dominated the headlines, sparking debate about the intersection of national security and humanitarian values. Trump’s policies were bold and left the country divided as to whether they strengthened or strained America’s social fabric.
What’s next?
As Trump prepares for his second term, his pledges on social policies are attracting significant attention and healthcare remains a focal point. This time, Trump has promised to abolish taxes on Social Security payments, a move that has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the program. He also wants to tackle prescription drug prices by proposing measures to lower costs while questioning some existing approaches.
In welfare, Trump’s approach may intensify. His administration plans to revisit stricter work requirements for public assistance programs, echoing his first term’s goals of limiting benefits to those he considers to be truly in need. Such measures are likely to reignite debates about government responsibility versus individual accountability.
Immigration policies under Trump are poised to have far-reaching social consequences. Proposals include mass deportations, detentions at the border, and a revival of the “Remain in Mexico” program. Trump has also hinted at reinstating the family separation policy to deter illegal immigration, a move that would likely spark renewed public uproar. These immigration strategies, closely tied to access to education, healthcare, and housing for immigrant communities, underscore his administration’s focus on limiting public services to citizens and legal residents.
For now, the nation waits, and opinions remain divided. Donald Trump’s second term will shape how the government handles healthcare, welfare, and immigration and this will directly impact the millions who rely on these systems. His policies will define the future of America’s social safety net and its role in people’s lives.
