During New Orleans’ New Year’s celebration, an Army veteran driving a pickup truck that bore the flag of the Islamic State group wrought carnage, killing 15 people as he steered around a police blockade and slammed into revelers before being shot dead by police. Investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are currently ongoing.

Additionally, the global economy is entering the new year with uncertainty looming over prospects. 

Donald Trump’s second term in the White House is expected to dominate the economic agenda. Global trade tensions are on the horizon as Trump threatens to impose sweeping tariffs on US imports.

Beyond economic policies, the immigration issue, which took centrestage during the 2024 election cycle, is also set to feature front and centre as Trump takes his place at the White House. President-elect Donald Trump had earlier promised a crackdown on illegal immigration and significant changes to immigration laws. His advisers will contend with long-existing headwinds to turn Trump’s campaign rhetoric into policy.

So, what’s in store as Trump makes his political comeback?

On this episode of Morning Shot, Charles Lipson, Professor Emeritus from the Department of Political Science at University of Chicago shares his insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar
Produced & Edited by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images; AFP