What will Trump do first? – 2025 US politics preview
Jan 9, 2025
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Nikki McCann Ramirez, a journalist at Rolling Stone and co-host of American Friction, discusses the potential future of US politics under a returning Trump. They tackle what policies Trump might prioritize, including immigration and the influence of rival Elon Musk. The conversation examines key MAGA figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and Jim Jordan, who are shaping the GOP landscape. Additionally, they delve into the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party and the shifting voter sentiments around immigration, bringing both insight and humor to serious topics.
Trump's anticipated return to the White House suggests a shift towards a more radical policy agenda influenced by strong allies like Elon Musk.
The growing power of key Republican figures indicates a deeper penetration of Trump's control within party structures, potentially allowing extreme political actions to flourish unchecked.
Deep dives
The Climate Around January 6th Certification
The atmosphere during the January 6th certification of Trump's win was surprisingly subdued, contrary to the chaos that marked the same date leading to a constitutional crisis in 2021. Reports indicate that the day's events were characterized by intense police presence rather than violence, with only a few scattered protests. The Capitol, having recovered from previous damage, felt almost inconspicuous, yet the shadow of past violence loomed over the proceedings. This stark contrast highlights a shift in perspective on what January 6th represents for American democracy, a day that ideally should have been procedural, now weighed down by memories of the insurrection.
Trump's Dominance and Future Focus
Despite being out of power for four years, Trump continues to exert significant control over American politics, prompting a sense of resignation among journalists covering his potential return. The discussion reveals an expectation that immigration will be a central issue, possibly more aggressive in nature compared to his first term. The upcoming administration is anticipated to see Trump align closely with figures like Elon Musk, indicating a shift toward a more unrestrained approach devoid of past establishment restraints. This reinforces the perception that Trump's next term could be characterized by a decisive and radical policy agenda driven by loyalists and allies.
Emerging Influencers and Legislative Prospects
Key figures in the Republican party, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Jim Jordan, are expected to wield significant power despite their positions not being officially prominent. Their influence will likely shape legislative priorities, with GOP members remaining aligned with Trump's agenda while seeking to implement recommendations from influential individuals like Musk. The dynamics within Congress suggest that Trump's control has now permeated deeper into party structures, making resistance from establishment Republicans less likely. This could lead to a concerning landscape where extreme political maneuvers go unchecked, impacting fundamental legislative processes.
With Donald Trump returning to the White House, the political battles of his first term and a few fresh ones are returning to the fore in US politics. But what will he prioritise once in office?
In this episode of The Bunker, Jacob Jarvis is joined by hisAmerican Friction co-host, Nikki McCann Ramirez of Rolling Stone, to look at the key figures and forces shaping US politics in 2025. With the growing influence of Elon Musk, a political mandate and experience in the office, what does this next phase of Trumpism mean for American politics?
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Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Producer: Liam Tait. Audio editors: Simon Williams. Managing editor: Jacob Jarvis. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.