On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump enacted a series of executive orders spanning immigration, climate, diversity policies, and international relations, while also issuing pardons for January 6 Capitol rioters. The orders underscore his campaign pledges and mark a dramatic policy shift from his predecessor.
Key Executive Actions
Immigration Policies
President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border and announced plans for mass deportation operations targeting “criminal aliens,” to be executed with military support. Additionally, he signed an order to revoke birthright citizenship. However, this measure is expected to face significant legal challenges, as birthright citizenship is protected by the U.S. Constitution.
January 6 Pardons
Trump granted pardons to some of the 1,500 individuals involved in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, referring to them as “hostages.” This decision has reignited debate over accountability for the attack on democratic institutions.
Reversals on Diversity and LGBTQ Policies
In a push against what he called “woke” culture, Trump repealed executive orders promoting diversity and equality across government and private sectors. He also revoked protections for LGBTQ Americans and declared the federal government would recognize only two genders.
Environmental Rollbacks
President Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Accord, reiterating his first-term stance against global climate initiatives. He also declared a “national energy emergency” to expand domestic oil drilling, emphasizing the administration’s priority on energy independence.
Workplace Policies
Trump mandated the return of federal employees to full-time, in-office work, reversing pandemic-era work-from-home policies.
International Relations
Withdrawal from WHO
Citing unfair financial contributions compared to China, Trump signed an order to withdraw the U.S. from the World Health Organization, continuing his critique of global health governance.
TikTok Regulation
Trump delayed a law effectively banning TikTok for 75 days, giving its Chinese parent company time to negotiate selling a majority share to U.S. interests.
Policy on Israel and Palestine
The administration lifted sanctions on Israeli settlers accused of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, reversing actions taken by the Biden administration.
Cuba Relations
Trump removed Cuba from the state sponsors of terrorism list, undoing a Biden-era move made just days earlier.
Implications and Controversy
The sweeping changes signal a return to Trump’s hallmark policies and rhetoric. Legal challenges and political backlash are anticipated, particularly on contentious issues like immigration, environmental policy, and the January 6 pardons. The coming weeks are expected to see a flurry of reactions from domestic and international stakeholders.
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