Special Poll
As Thanksgiving travel reaches record highs, recent consumer-friendly rules introduced during President Biden’s administration, such as automatic refunds for significantly delayed or canceled flights, may be short-lived under President-elect Donald Trump. These policies, aimed at protecting travelers, were a hallmark of outgoing Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s tenure. However, the airline industry anticipates a shift under Trump’s leadership, expecting a less regulatory approach that favors businesses.
Trump’s plans include revisiting regulatory frameworks across multiple sectors, not just transportation. Airlines are particularly hopeful for reduced oversight, as leaders like Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian and Southwest’s CEO Robert Jordan have expressed optimism for more industry-friendly policies. Trump’s Justice Department is also expected to take a lighter stance on issues like airline mergers, contrasting sharply with Biden’s stricter approach.
Beyond transportation, Trump has signaled broader deregulation efforts. In his first term, Trump reversed over 100 environmental rules and leveraged tools like the Congressional Review Act to overturn late-term Obama-era policies. His team, bolstered by figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, promises to pursue aggressive cuts in regulations across sectors, from environmental protections to financial safeguards. Critics argue these rollbacks could have far-reaching consequences, particularly in areas like banking and climate protection.
While some hail deregulation as a way to spur economic growth and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, others worry it may undermine critical safeguards for consumers, workers, and the environment. Regardless, the incoming administration appears poised to significantly reshape the regulatory landscape, with broad implications for industries and individuals alike.