In a revealing interview with Fox News Digital, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., unveiled a glimpse into the potential first 100 days of a Donald Trump presidency should the former president reclaim the White House. Scalise, who met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year, revealed a robust agenda centered around immigration, energy, and economic policies.
On immigration, Scalise expects Trump to move swiftly to implement a hardline approach. He predicts the reinstatement of the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy, better known as the Migrant Protection Protocols, which forced asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases were adjudicated. This policy, criticized by human rights groups as inhumane, was scrapped by the Biden administration in 2021.
Scalise anticipates an end to ‘catch-and-release’ policies, arguing that they contribute to crime and drug problems, including the influx of fentanyl from Mexican cartels. He emphasizes the importance of increased border security, suggesting the need for further wall construction, drone capabilities, and night vision equipment for Border Patrol agents.
Beyond immigration, Scalise anticipates a rollback of electric vehicle mandates and the implementation of new tax policies, likely drawing inspiration from Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is set to expire in 2025.
However, Scalise cautiously acknowledges the tight nature of the upcoming election. He believes the House majority hinges on a narrow margin, with a GOP victory potentially translating into a slim four to ten-seat majority.
Scalise has been tirelessly campaigning across the country, contributing $70 million to Republican campaigns and visiting over 140 districts. Despite his optimism, he remains steadfast in his dedication to supporting GOP candidates, even those in close races.
The potential for a Democratic victory in the House has not escaped Scalise’s attention. But, despite his long tenure as the longest-serving member of House GOP leadership, he has unequivocally stated that he has no intention of challenging House Speaker Mike Johnson for the top House Republican position should the GOP lose its majority.
His focus remains firmly on securing a GOP victory and expanding the party’s presence in the House. He believes that anyone dwelling on the possibility of losing is simply misplaced in their focus.
