Donald Trump To Begin Second Term, Pledges Swift Action On Border Security And Energy Policy

Donald Trump will be sworn in for a second term as president of the United States on Monday. The inauguration, moved indoors due to extreme cold, will usher in what Trump describes as an aggressive agenda centered on border security, energy policy, and economic recovery.

At a rally on Sunday, Trump outlined plans to immediately sign executive orders targeting workplace diversity programs and bolstering U.S.-Mexico border security, signaling his intent to act swiftly on campaign promises.

Border Security: Federal Backing for Texas Efforts

Trump has signaled plans to prioritize border security through a flurry of executive actions. His agenda includes reclassifying drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations,” reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and resuming construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall.

According to The Houston Chronicle, these measures could ease Texas’ financial burden from border-related expenses. Over the past two years, Texas has spent more than $11 billion on Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star program, which has funded border wall construction and the deployment of state police and National Guard troops.

U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Houston, stated that he is working with Congress to include reimbursement for Texas’ border security spending in an upcoming budget package. “We need to repay Texas for Texas’ expenses from the border,” Crenshaw said.

Energy Policy: Boost for Texas LNG

Trump has made his stance on energy policy clear with his call to “drill, baby, drill.” He is expected to quickly reverse the Biden administration’s pause on new liquefied natural gas (LNG) permits and streamline the process for renewing export permits—actions that would directly benefit Texas.

Texas, which accounted for 27.3% of U.S. LNG exports in 2023, is poised to gain from Trump’s friendlier regulatory approach. Exports of Texas LNG were valued at $9.1 billion last year.

Disaster Relief: Smoother Federal Coordination

Texas leaders anticipate better disaster response coordination under Trump. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and Governor Greg Abbott maintain close ties with the president, which could expedite federal aid in the event of natural disasters.

This aligns with past actions during Trump’s first term when the federal government accelerated aid to Texas following Hurricane Harvey and reduced the state’s share of debris removal costs.

Trump’s Relationship with Texas Leaders

Trump’s strong connections with Texas officials could make the state a central stage for his border and energy policies. Abbott, in particular, has emerged as a close ally, earning Trump’s praise for continuing border wall construction and other immigration measures. Trump has often cited Texas as a model for his border security agenda.

During the Republican National Convention, Trump gave Abbott a prime speaking slot and invited him to his private family box, signaling their close working relationship.