Area 1: TRADE AND ECONOMIC POLICY

Topic 1.1: Tariff Implementation and Structure

The Trump administration’s sweeping tariffs have shown peculiar implementation patterns. Russia was conspicuously absent from the countries subject to tariffs [1], while uninhabited territories were oddly included [2]. The formula for calculating tariffs has been revealed to be based on trade deficits rather than reciprocal rates [3]. The administration has also ended de minimis treatment for goods from China and Hong Kong [4].

Area 1: Trade and Economic Policy

Trump’s Tariff Implementation

The Trump administration has implemented “reciprocal tariffs” described as a “Declaration of Economic Independence” [1] and “Liberation Day” [2]. These tariffs impose at least 10% charge on most imports, calculated to match approximately half of what other countries charge on U.S. goods [1]. The administration has published detailed calculations justifying these rates [3]. Vice President Vance frames this as America pushing back against being treated as “the world’s piggy bank” [4]. Some congressional Republicans have voted to halt taxes on Canadian imports [5], while certain Democratic representatives have expressed willingness to work with Trump on parts of the tariff strategy [6].

Area 1: Trump Administration and Governance

Executive Actions and Presidential Powers

President Trump has taken action to withdraw funding from Princeton University, citing concerns over antisemitism on campus [1]. Simultaneously, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has launched initiatives to address what volunteers describe as “jaw-dropping” Social Security fraud [2].

[1] Trump Turns Off the Money Machine to Princeton to Stop Their Antisemitic Ways, https://redstate.com/brad-essex/2025/04/02/trump-turn-off-money-machine-to-princeton-to-stop-their-anti-semitic-ways-n2187404
[2] DOGE volunteer credits Trump for unprecedented effort to curb ‘jaw-dropping’ Social Security fraud, https://www.foxnews.com/media/doge-volunteer-credits-trump-unprecedented-effort-curb-jaw-dropping-social-security-fraud

1. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION & PRESIDENTIAL AUTHORITY

1.1 Constitutional Boundaries & Executive Powers

President Trump has explicitly stated he is “not joking” about seeking a third presidential term, despite constitutional limitations [1][2]. Multiple news sources report Trump saying there are “methods” for serving beyond the two-term limit [3]. This position directly challenges established constitutional precedent. Trump has increasingly sought Supreme Court intervention to overrule judges blocking parts of his agenda [4], and recent executive orders have created confusion, particularly regarding the 2026 federal election cycle [5].

1. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION POLICIES & GOVERNANCE

1.1 Executive Orders & Policy Implementation

President Trump has signed an executive order to overhaul voting systems [1], marking a significant use of executive authority. Meanwhile, debates continue regarding unelected officials in the administration, particularly Elon Musk, whose role has generated discussion about executive branch power distribution [2]. Questions regarding the scope of presidential authority continue to circulate among observers [3].

[1] Trump Signs Executive Order to Overhaul Voting, https://www.wsj.com/politics/elections/trump-signs-executive-order-to-overhaul-voting-308a5d28?reflink=mobilewebshare_permalink
[2] The Irony of ‘Nobody Elected Elon’, https://fee.org/articles/the-irony-of-nobody-elected-elon/
[3] Could the president do this?, /r/Conservative/comments/1jox3uk/could_the_president_do_this/

1. Trump Administration and Executive Branch

1.1 Personnel and Staffing

The Trump administration is breaking modern presidential records with unprecedented staffing efforts, hiring “thousands of America-First warriors” [1]. This staffing approach markedly differs from Trump’s first term, with the Chief of Staff implementing a notably aggressive strategy [2]. The administration’s focus on loyal personnel suggests a coordinated effort to rapidly advance its agenda.

[1] Trump admin breaking modern presidential staffing records, hiring ’thousands of America-First warriors’, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-admin-breaking-modern-presidential-staffing-records-hiring-thousands-america-first-warriors;
[2] It’s Different This Time Around—Trump’s Wily Chief of Staff Bringing the Heat, https://redstate.com/bobhoge/2025/03/30/its-different-this-time-aroundtrumps-wily-chief-of-staff-bringing-the-heat-n2187276