On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump wasted no time flexing his executive powers, signing a series of sweeping executive orders and directives aimed at cementing his vision of America. These actions, spanning immigration, energy, diversity policies, and international relations, signal a dramatic shift from the Biden administration’s policies and a revival of Trump’s “America First” agenda.
Table of Contents
1. Immigration Overhaul
Trump reinstated efforts to build the southern border wall, declared a national emergency at the border, and directed the military to “seal the borders.” The orders also targeted drug cartels as terrorist organizations, suspended the US refugee resettlement program, and sought to end automatic citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants
2. Reinstating the Death Penalty
Trump’s new executive order reintroduces the death penalty for undocumented immigrants convicted of capital crimes and for those who kill law enforcement officers. He emphasized the need for mandatory sentences in such cases, pushing for federal jurisdiction where necessary.
3. Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO)
Reviving a controversial decision from his first term, Trump announced the United States’ withdrawal from the WHO, labeling it a “bad deal” for the country. The move underscores Trump’s disdain for the organization’s handling of global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Climate and Energy Policies
In a stark departure from Biden’s environmental priorities, Trump declared a national energy emergency and withdrew the US from the Paris climate agreement. His administration aims to ramp up oil and gas exploration, especially in Alaska, while reversing environmental protections on offshore drilling.
5. Abolition of DEI Programs
Trump signed an order eliminating federal funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. He framed the move as an effort to combat “woke policies” and attacked affirmative action, calling it a divisive approach.
6. Pardons for Capitol Rioters
Trump issued over 1,600 full pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots, calling them “hostages” of a politically biased justice system. This move sparked widespread controversy, especially as it included members of extremist groups.
7. TikTok Ban Review
Trump extended TikTok’s compliance deadline, giving the platform 75 days to address national security concerns or face a permanent ban. Critics argue the move encroaches on freedom of speech, while Trump maintains it’s a necessary step to counter foreign influence.
8. Creation of DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency)
In a bid to streamline bureaucracy, Trump established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), appointing Elon Musk as its head. The department aims to cut red tape but has already faced lawsuits from unions and public interest groups.
9. Gender Recognition Rollback
Trump signed an executive order limiting federal recognition to two genders: male and female. Critics labeled the move as an assault on LGBTQ+ rights, while Trump’s administration framed it as a defense of “biological reality.”
10. Restoration of Free Speech
Two significant orders were signed to address perceived government overreach during the Biden administration. One mandates a review of law enforcement and intelligence activities to identify “weaponization” against political adversaries. The other aims to restore freedom of speech by barring government censorship efforts.
Key Points:
- Immigration: Border wall construction resumes; refugee program suspended.
- Death Penalty: Reinstated for undocumented immigrants and those who kill police officers.
- WHO Withdrawal: US exits World Health Organization, citing inefficiencies.
- Climate Policies: US withdraws from Paris Agreement; energy exploration expanded.
- DEI Programs: Federal funding for diversity initiatives eliminated.
- Capitol Pardons: 1,600 rioters granted unconditional pardons.
- TikTok Review: 75-day compliance period for the social media platform.
- New Department: Elon Musk leads the Department of Government Efficiency.
- Gender Policies: Federal recognition limited to male and female genders.
- Free Speech: Orders to address government censorship and political targeting.
Trump’s actions set the tone for a controversial and transformative second term, with many of these measures likely to face legal and political challenges in the weeks to come.