Trump’s Actions Since Taking Power: A Flurry of Executive Orders and Policy Changes. Since returning to the White House, Donald Trump has issued a series of bold executive orders, signaling his aggressive stance on immigration, climate policy, and national security, among other areas.
In his first week, Trump clashed with Colombian President Gustavo Petro over deportations, with tensions rising after the U.S. President threatened to impose tariffs, which led Petro to accept deportation flights. This set the tone for what would be a series of high-profile executive actions.
Immigration Policies and Border Control: Trump has doubled down on his immigration policies, issuing orders to “repel, repatriate, and remove” migrants at the southern border. He declared a national emergency, citing threats to America’s sovereignty, which would allow for additional funding for border enforcement. His administration has also reinstated the controversial “Remain in Mexico” policy, which saw the return of thousands of asylum seekers to Mexico while awaiting hearings in the U.S.
Trump has taken a firm stance against illegal immigration, demanding the end of “catch and release,” and has threatened a nationwide deportation campaign. His administration also designated several international gangs and drug cartels as terrorist organizations.
Controversial Moves on Birthright Citizenship and Refugees: Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented migrants is facing legal challenges, as it conflicts with the U.S. Constitution. Furthermore, he has suspended the refugee resettlement program, though further details remain unclear.
Tariff Negotiations and Trade Policy: In the realm of trade, Trump has already signaled his approach with a 25% tariff threat against Colombia, which led to a reversal on certain issues by the Colombian government. The administration is also reviewing its trade relationships, with particular focus on Canada, Mexico, and China.
Climate and Energy Shifts: Trump has signed off on withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement once again and has declared a national energy emergency. His administration has halted Biden’s Green New Deal and ordered measures to expand oil and gas exploration in Alaska. These moves reflect Trump’s commitment to fossil fuel interests and a pivot away from renewable energy efforts.
International Relations and Health: Trump has ordered the U.S. to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time, criticizing its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the international stage, Trump is poised to reverse many of Biden’s foreign policies, including reinstating sanctions on Venezuela and Cuba, and undoing Biden-era sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank.
Pardons and Criminal Justice: In a significant move, Trump issued pardons for nearly 1,600 individuals arrested in the January 6 Capitol riot. He also commuted sentences for far-right groups, such as the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, linked to the insurrection.
Cultural and Social Policies: Trump’s executive orders have extended to cultural issues, including his directive to revoke federal government diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Additionally, his administration has moved to block gender ideology policies and limit transgender rights in federal communications.
Technology and the Economy: Trump is also taking steps to position the U.S. as a leader in artificial intelligence. He signed a directive to promote AI innovation and has expressed a desire to remove barriers to U.S. dominance in the tech industry. Alongside this, his administration is exploring the regulation of the cryptocurrency industry.
Recognition of Native American Tribes: In a rare positive move, Trump signed an executive order recognizing the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina for full federal recognition, which grants the tribe access to health care and housing benefits.
National Landmarks and Changes: Trump issued a directive to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” and to change Alaska’s Mount Denali back to its original name, Mount McKinley, honoring President William McKinley. These moves reflect his admiration for McKinley’s tariff policies.
Secret Document Releases: In a highly anticipated decision, Trump has ordered the declassification of records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert Kennedy, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. He expressed that the release of these documents would satisfy public curiosity decades in the making.
With his return to the White House, Trump has taken swift actions across numerous fronts, reinforcing his “America First” agenda while undoing many of the policies put in place by his predecessor, Joe Biden. His executive orders are likely to shape U.S. policy and governance for the years to come.
