In a series of events at the University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy, scholars examined potential policy directions for Donald Trump's second term as President. Discussions covered economic, domestic, and foreign policies, providing insights into what a president described as "predictably unpredictable" might pursue.
The proposed tariffs targeting China, Mexico, and Canada were a key topic. Professor Ryan Kellogg highlighted the impact on gas prices: "We import four million barrels a day of crude oil and refined products from Canada," he said. "It is going to be titanically disruptive if those tariffs are put in place all of a sudden."
Trump's plan to create a bitcoin “strategic reserve” was also debated. Professor Steven N. Durlauf warned that making the U.S. the world's “crypto capital” could be “extraordinarily dangerous.” He criticized Trump’s approach to cryptocurrency oversight, likening it to the lack of data on subprime mortgages in 2008.
Professor Paul Poast explored Trump's admiration for William McKinley, noting Trump's interest in imperialist policies similar to McKinley's era. Poast suggested Trump might aim to be an "outstanding 19th-century president."
Regulatory reform was another focus area. Kellogg expressed cautious optimism about changes that could facilitate investment while considering environmental protections.
Middle East policy discussions included Gaza, Iran, and the Abraham Accords. Poast remarked on Trump's role in these accords as a counterbalance to Iran. Associate Professor Austin Wright added that Trump views Iran's global proxy forces as a significant threat.
Social programs under Trump also came under scrutiny. Durlauf noted Trump's history of attempting to cut aid programs like SNAP during his previous administration.
On foreign policy, Wright characterized Trump's approach as "America First," with transactional policies aimed at prioritizing U.S. interests globally.
Education policy discussions revolved around bipartisan opportunities like the College Transparency Act. Associate Professor Lesley Turner noted that most K-12 education funding comes from state and local sources, limiting federal influence despite campaign rhetoric about returning control to states.
The events provided a comprehensive analysis of potential shifts in U.S. policy under Trump's second presidency.