Donald Trump Signs Sweeping Executive Orders on Day One of Second Term
On his first day as the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump signed numerous executive orders aimed at reversing his predecessor’s policies and implementing his campaign promises. The actions ranged from domestic policy to global initiatives, marking significant shifts in U.S. governance and diplomacy.
Among the headline orders was a massive pardon for nearly all individuals convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. This move, affecting approximately 1,500 individuals, fulfilled a campaign promise and sparked debates about its implications for democracy.
On immigration, Trump declared a national border emergency to bolster border security, expedite the completion of the border wall, and curtail refugee resettlements. The directive also targeted illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations, using the U.S. military as enforcement.
In the energy sector, Trump proclaimed a national energy emergency, revoking policies promoting electric vehicles and re-emphasizing fossil fuel production. His administration began withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and announced plans to pull out of the World Health Organization (WHO), citing alleged failures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trump also rescinded numerous Biden-era executive orders, including those focused on reducing prescription drug prices, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting federal lands. His orders included renaming Mount Denali to Mount McKinley and the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, sparking likely international controversy.
Further cultural shifts were initiated with an order mandating federal recognition of only two sexes, male and female, across government documentation. Additionally, Trump directed federal employees to return to in-person work, reversing remote work policies.
An executive order temporarily lifted the enforcement of a TikTok ban, allowing the app to resume operations in the U.S. while negotiations on its ownership and security proceeded.
Critics argue that the sweeping nature of these orders could face legal challenges, especially where they conflict with congressional statutes. The actions highlight Trump’s intent to reshape American policy drastically, from environmental regulations to federal workplace dynamics and international agreements.
