With Donald Trump’s inauguration as 45th president of the U.S. comes an array of changes for the country in terms of everything from healthcare to foreign policy. The White House’s official website has already been completely revamped where now the president’s plan for the next four years is thrust into action. The “America First” policies could lead to friction between America’s allies, as it already has with Mexico. Here’s an in depth look at what President Trump’s administration is thinking as they move into their first week.
TRADE
Trump formally withdraws the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, distancing America from its Asian allies as China’s influence in the region rises. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, saying Trump understands the value of free trade, vows to keep pitching the TPP. A top Trump adviser will meet this week with advisers to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose Liberal government is gathering to plan a response to a possible renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Mexico is ready to renegotiate trade rules with the United States but says it would counter any change in U.S. policy that affects imports with a “mirror action.” British Prime Minister Theresa May will champion free trade and also voice her support for the Iran nuclear deal when she meets Trump later this week, her spokeswoman said.
BUSINESS
Trump meets with a dozen prominent American manufacturers at the White House, promising to cut regulations and corporate taxes but warning them of penalties if they move production outside the country. Trump plans to meet on Monday at the White House with leaders of construction and sheet metal unions, two sources tell Reuters.
CABINET
U.S. Republican Senator Marco Rubio says he will reluctantly back Trump’s nominee for secretary of state, Rex Tillerson, in a move that all but secures Senate confirmation of the former Exxon Mobil Corp chief executive officer.
FOREIGN LEADERS
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi discussed fighting terrorism and extremism in a telephone call with Trump, and Trump applauded Egypt’s efforts on those fronts, Sisi’s office said. The Kremlin expects to agree soon on a date for the first phone call between President Vladimir Putin and Trump, but there is no word on when they will meet. Gulf Arab states are quietly applauding the arrival in the White House of a hawkish leader opposed to their adversary Iran, even if they suspect Trump might at times heighten tensions in the Middle East.
OBAMACARE
U.S. Republican Senator Susan Collins says Trump’s executive order last week targeting Obamacare is “very confusing,” and she offers her own replacement plan.
LAWSUIT
Trump dismisses allegations in a new lawsuit by prominent constitutional and ethics lawyers that he is violating the U.S. Constitution by letting his hotels and other businesses accept payments from foreign governments.
