4 US political events to look forward to in January By Investing.com

Investing.com – January is shaping up to be a pivotal month in US politics, with some major events on the horizon.

In a post this week, TD Cowen identified four developments that should dominate the headlines and potentially reshape the direction of policy.

Trump’s return to the presidency

On January 20, Donald Trump will officially begin his term as president. According to TD Cowen, “multiple executive orders” are expected on his first day, including one to freeze pending federal regulations.

The bank believes these orders are unlikely to affect independent agencies such as the Federal Reserve.Trump is also expected to make key appointments at agencies such as the SEC, CFPB and FHFA, with possible surprises in areas such as such as immigration and international relations.

Key financial policy appointments

Trump’s resurgence of appointments to critical financial positions is another focus. As TD Cowen notes, “Personnel was politics in the first Trump administration,” highlighting the importance of his picks for roles such as comptroller of the currency, director of the FHA and the FDIC. These appointments are expected to set the tone for financial regulation and policy in the coming months.

Election of the President of the House of Representatives

The GOP will work toward electing House Speaker, with Mike Johnson in the lead.However, TD Cowen says the margin of victory is razor thin, with Johnson needing 218 votes if all members participate. that risk is rising,” warns TD Cowen, suggesting potential turbulence in the process.

Cannabis Deferral Hearings

The DEA’s proceedings will move into the testimony phase regarding the potential reclassification of cannabis as a Schedule 3 substance.TD Cowen expects that to generate headlines, though any final decision will depend on the Trump administration.

“We continue to believe that the Trump team will support moving cannabis to Schedule 3, although action may need to wait until the end of the year,” the bank said.