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‘Our biggest problem right now’: Here’s what Donald Trump should prioritize in his first 100 days
Here are the priorities readers want him to focus on in his second term.
As President-elect Donald Trump‘s inauguration draws near, all eyes are on what promises to be a pivotal moment in U.S. history. With a nation deeply divided and major challenges on the horizon, many are wondering how the president-elect will address the country’s most pressing issues. But what do Boston.com readers hope to see from the Trump administration?
When we asked what issue you’d like to see Trump prioritize in his first 100 days in office, there was one issue that stood out from the rest: immigration. Forty-one percent of the 140 respondents to our poll listed it as their top issue.
What issues should Trump prioritize in his first 100 days?
Immigration
41%
The economy
14%
Foreign policy
1%
Education
2%
Healthcare
2%
Climate change
1%
Reproductive rights
5%
Other
34%
“It’s our biggest problem right now,” reader James from the North End said of immigration.
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Massachusetts, home to large immigrant communities, is no stranger to debates over border security and pathways to citizenship. Trump’s previous administration took a hard stance on immigration, but as the nation (and Boston) faces ongoing challenges with asylum policies, many are looking for concrete plans that address both security and compassion.
The economy will also likely be a major focal point of Trump’s second term, and it’s an issue readers want to see prioritized, too. It garnered 14% of the votes, with readers expressing concerns about inflation and disappointment with health of the economy under the Biden administration.
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“Signs of cracks are beginning to show, well hidden by the outgoing administration,” reader Jim from Braintree said.
Reproductive rights were also an issue readers want to see prioritized. Despite Massachusetts having some of the strongest protections for reproductive healthcare in the country, many are keenly aware – and wary – of the implications of Trump-era policies on reproductive rights, post-Roe.
“I am worried that anything he tries to do [regarding reproductive rights] will only cause more harm,” reader E.M. from Brookline said.
As Trump prepares for another four years in office, here’s what Boston.com readers had to say about some of the most pressing issues facing the nation.
What issue should Donald Trump prioritize in his first 100 days in office?
Immigration
“There is no shortage of American workers, only a shortage of businesses willing to pay wages necessary to attract qualified workers. The H1-B visa program is just a way to keep wages low and import mediocre workers to be exploited. This undermines the middle class and stifles social mobility.” – Jeff, Lunenberg
“There are several priorities, but immigration has to be first followed by the economy and foreign policy reforms.” – John R., Franklin
“Close the borders and stop the influx of immigrants clogging the state and taxing our resources, making programming that exists for tax-paying residents and their families available again.” – D.S., Waltham
“[Immigration is] the issue that arguably got him elected and the one most people can find common cause in.” – Peter, Dorchester
Economy
“Inflation is bad and prices on food and basic needs are too high. Seniors especially can’t keep up with this pace.” – John M., Leominster
“If Trump can actually take steps to improve things for ordinary Americans, he’ll get a lot of support. If he goes off on silly tangents like invading Canada, it’s nothing but a distraction.” – Ken M., Yarmouth
“The core reason for my vote in November and again now, [is] the economy. Let’s return to common sense and not progressive policies.” – John, Shrewsbury
Education
“I congratulate President Trump and VP Vance, and I am (cautiously) excited for them to assume office. I hope that Trump and Vance remember how access to quality education in this country provides a key to upward social mobility, and redistributing cultural, economic, and social mobility. The famously popular and helpful Economic Impact Payments helped so many continuing education students and (returning) adult learners handle the costs of living while pursuing their dreams of completing college degree programs without ever having to incur massive student debt. I hope they remember that the return of investments is more than monetary. If they can get Americans to read (actual) books again, then there is hope that their administration can actually ‘Make America Great Again.’” – Mink S., Dorchester
“The student loan crisis is real and ignoring it is not going to help. Borrowers need real solutions.” – Christopher P., Salem
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