Happy New Year! As the United States moves quickly to Jan. 20, and the inauguration of the second Trump Presidency, it is interesting to have observed how Mr. Trump has acted since his election, involving himself in foreign and domestic matters as if he already were in office.
Combining his statements and actions on policy with his announced nominations for major offices makes me wonder how those who voted for him would respond to the question of whether, when they voted, they were voting for the following?
Eliminating birthright citizenship. U.S. law says that those born on American soil are citizens, regardless of the status of their parents. Trump says he wants to eliminate that, which would put millions of people in unsure status and potentially increase the number of “illegal” immigrants.
Eliminating the debt ceiling. During the debate and vote over keeping the government running, Trump proposed eliminating the debt ceiling, which would allow uncontrolled increases in the national debt.
Buying or otherwise acquiring Greenland and retaking the Panama Canal. Trump has said he would do both of these things, potentially causing major international disruption and discord. (Maybe not so significantly, he also has said he will restore the name “Mount McKinley” to Denali, the highest mountain in North America.)
Imposing tariffs on goods from China, Canada and Mexico, and potentially other nations. This proposal would increase the cost of goods, inflation and disrupt the international trade system, with unknown economic ramifications.
Naming controversial cabinet secretaries and other officials. Trump has nominated several people with Fox News positions as one if not the only known qualification, and a couple with suspect personal lives, at least two of whom have withdrawn.
Continuing the tax cuts passed under the first Trump administration, which added a trillion dollars, if not more, to the national debt, interest on which is now the second largest item in the federal budget.
Eliminating taxes on tips, Social Security and overtime pay. These proposals, made on the campaign trail, have not been mentioned much since the election but have not been abandoned either.
Having the largest deportation of “illegal immigrants” in U.S. history, potentially using the military to help do so. While immigration was cited as one of the top two reasons voters selected Trump, assumedly that was referring to massive border crossings (which seem to have abated), and the presence of certain numbers of criminals or other bad actors among the undocumented. Whether this intended to deprive the country of its agricultural workers, domestic help, cleaning crews and landscape industry is questionable.
Prosecuting or otherwise seeking to punish those who investigated the crimes of Jan. 6, 2021, or otherwise are seen by Trump as having persecuted him and his supporters.
Finally, making the reportedly “wealthiest man in the world,” Elon Musk, the budget and economic czar of the country.
How many of these things were on the minds of those who voted for Mr. Trump? My suspicion is few, if any of them, were desired by the majority. It will be interesting to see how long Trump, now a lame duck and ineligible to run for another term, will enjoy a “honeymoon” with the Congress, narrowly controlled by Republicans, and when conservative “deficit hawks” and others muster enough support to stymie the plans formerly announced. It also will be instructive to see how many of the campaign and other promises never reappear or arise in significantly modified form.
Already, Mr. Trump has stated that it is hard to bring prices down once they have gone up, and has indicated he does not see firing the head of the Federal Reserve as “happening.” One thing is clear, it will be an interesting inaugural address and first few months of the incoming administration.
Remembering Paul Voegelin
After a long battle with brain cancer, Paul Voegelin, 60, passed away at his home in Woburn, Mass. Voegelin was the COO of the law firm Sheehan, Phinney, Bass & Green.
Being COO of a law firm is a challenge, and Paul was special. He brought talent to the administrative team, recognizing strengths and adding where skill was needed. He oversaw the construction of offices in Boston and Portsmouth, and the recent renovation of the Manchester headquarters.
Paul was a fine man, a warm and genuine leader, and a friend. He was proud of his family, and supportive of the law firm. His death left a void which we all feel.
In the Manchester community, he became involved with several organizations, and was treasurer of Easterseals NH at the time of his death, where his special interest was helping those suffering from alcohol and drug abuse.
Paul Voegelin contributed greatly, and is missed immensely.
Brad Cook is a Manchester attorney. The views expressed in this column are his own. He can be reached at bradfordcook01@gmail.com.
