Setting the Stage for January 20

President-elect Donald Trump highlighted the anticipated timeline for his administration to be “fully operational” in a speech delivered at AmericaFest, a significant event showcasing the conservative movement. During his energetic address, which resonated with the enthusiasm of a rally, Trump indicated that the public could expect full functionality by approximately 2:00 PM on January 20.

Taking the stage at the Phoenix Convention Center, Trump declared, “You just have a few days to wait. We’re going to be fully operational, I would say, by about 2:00 on the 20th.” This marked his first rally-style speech since achieving a decisive electoral victory over Vice President Kamala Harris the previous month.

Celebrating Victory and Outlining Administration Goals

During his address, Trump basked in the glow of his recent electoral success while addressing an audience gathered for the annual event organized by Turning Point. He reflected on the triumphs of his past term, citing the unparalleled economic growth he championed.

“The thing that brings people together is victory. It’s winning. And we had that for much of my first year. We had the greatest economy in the history of our country, maybe in the history of any country, frankly,” Trump stated, foreshadowing ambitious objectives for his next term.

He ardently pledged to enhance drilling operations, proclaiming a commitment to “drill, baby, drill,” while promising even greater accomplishments to come.

Revamping Foreign Relations: The Panama Canal Initiative

In a surprising twist, Trump called for the United States to regain control of the Panama Canal during his speech. He emphasized the strategic importance of the canal in American commerce and military operations.
“A secure Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. commerce and rapid deployment of the Navy from the Atlantic, all the way to the Pacific,” he declared, underscoring the canal’s significance as a key logistical artery for American maritime activities.

Trump continued, “The United States is the number one user of the Panama Canal, with over 72% of all transits heading to or from U.S. ports. Think of that. So we built it. We’re the ones that use it. They gave it away,” referencing the canal’s transfer to Panama in 1977 during the Carter administration.

Plans for Domestic Policy and Immigration

Turning to domestic issues, Trump laid out plans for robust immigration reform and drug awareness campaigns. He promised that his administration would initiate the “largest deportation operation in American history,” accompanied by marketing campaigns aimed at shedding light on the dangers of drug use, specifically targeting fentanyl.

“We’re going to do very big advertising campaigns, just like a campaign for running for president,” he explained. He touched on the devastating impact drug use has on appearance and health, stating, “If you want to have horrible teeth, take a lot of fentanyl.”

Trump’s immigration strategy also included securing the northern border with Canada, which he claimed has been a gateway for illegal drugs and migrants.

Reactions to Legislative Developments

In the lead-up to Trump’s speech, Congress successfully averted a government shutdown. This outcome followed negotiations that came under scrutiny from Trump and his allies. The former president criticized a lengthy funding bill for its perceived excessive spending, urging Republicans to consider suspending the debt ceiling during negotiations.

Despite the government’s near shutdown, Trump maintained a seemingly dissatisfied tone regarding recent legislative decisions, hinting that he was unhappy with the passage of the final bill.

Support for Cabinet Picks and Policy Direction

Trump reaffirmed his support for key figures in his upcoming administration, including former Fox News host Pete Hegseth as secretary of defense. Hegseth, who faces allegations of misconduct, has openly denied these claims and pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed.

Trump also celebrated other appointments, such as Pam Bondi for attorney general and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Department of Health and Human Services. He expressed concerns over skyrocketing autism rates, indicating it was an issue he planned to address collaboratively with Kennedy.

Policy Vision: Energy, Military, and Education

Trump’s platform emphasized rolling back restrictions imposed by the Biden administration, particularly regarding energy production. He committed to signing executive orders to eliminate what he termed “Biden restrictions” and reinstating strong energy policies on his first day in office.

Moreover, Trump denounced what he labeled as “wokeness” infiltrating military and educational systems. He promised to take swift action against policies he believes harm American values, including halting transgender policies in the military and schools, aiming to keep men out of women’s sports.

AmericaFest: A Gathering of Conservative Supporters

AmericaFest, kicking off on December 19, demonstrated a vibrant conservative spirit, attracting over 21,000 attendees eager to hear from Trump. Charlie Kirk, leader of Turning Point USA, expressed gratitude for Trump’s presence at the gathering, heralding it as the “largest multi-day event in the movement.”

As the event drew to a close, attendees left invigorated by Trump’s resolute vision and plans for the future, underlining a promising start to Trump’s next chapter in American politics.