"America First Policy." (01,20,25)

What is it?

Executive Order 14150, called the "America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State," is a straightforward order that tells the State Department to prioritize American interests in all foreign policy decisions. The order directs the Secretary of State to update the department's policies, programs, staff decisions, and operations to follow an "America First" approach.  This represents a shift toward a more nationalist foreign policy approach where the U.S. government focuses primarily on what benefits America rather than taking a more globally cooperative stance, though the order doesn't specify exactly what changes will be made or how this will affect specific international relationships and agreements. An example of this "America First" approach might be renegotiating trade agreements to favor American workers and businesses, even if it means other countries get less favorable terms. For instance, the U.S. might prioritize protecting American manufacturing jobs by imposing tariffs on foreign goods, or it could reduce foreign aid to other countries in order to spend that money on domestic programs like infrastructure or education instead.

What's in it for us?

The most direct effects on young adults and teens would likely be through changes in international exchange programs, study abroad opportunities, and immigration policies. Young people might see fewer government-funded cultural exchange programs or international educational partnerships if they're seen as not directly benefiting America. College students could face changes in study abroad programs that receive federal funding, and international students coming to the U.S. might encounter stricter visa policies.

On the positive side, an "America First" approach could potentially create more domestic job opportunities for young Americans if trade policies successfully protect U.S. industries and bring manufacturing jobs back. Young adults entering the job market might benefit from policies that prioritize hiring American workers over foreign labor.