In his second term as US President, Donald Trump wasted no time in making significant policy moves. From reshaping immigration laws to revisiting climate and energy policies, his administration began with an array of executive orders aimed at fulfilling his campaign promises. Here’s a breakdown of his early actions:
Immigration Policies: Strengthening Borders
1. National Emergency for Border Security:
Declaring that US sovereignty was “under attack,” Trump announced a national emergency to secure additional funding for border reinforcements, including reviving plans for a Mexico border wall.
2. Closing Borders:
Military action was directed to “seal the borders,” citing drug smuggling, human trafficking, and crime as critical concerns.
3. End of Birthright Citizenship:
An executive order sought to deny citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants or those on temporary visas. However, this faces legal challenges due to the 14th Amendment.
4. Targeting Gangs and Cartels:
Trump classified international gangs and drug cartels as terrorist organizations, adding groups like MS-13 to the list.
5. Reinstating Immigration Policies:
His administration brought back the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring non-Mexican asylum seekers to await hearings outside the US. He also ended the “catch and release” system, instead aiming for mass deportations, although logistical challenges loom.
6. Death Penalty for Certain Crimes:
Trump reinstated the federal death penalty for undocumented immigrants convicted of capital crimes, including killing law enforcement officers.
7. Suspending Refugee Resettlement:
The refugee resettlement program was paused, with further details awaited.
Climate and Energy: A Return to Fossil Fuels
- Exiting the Paris Agreement:
Trump signed a directive to withdraw from the Paris climate deal, a process that takes a year to finalize. - National Energy Emergency:
Declaring an “energy emergency,” he prioritized boosting fossil fuel production and filling oil reserves. His stance was encapsulated in the phrase, “Drill, baby, drill.” - Unlocking Alaskan Resources:
An executive order was issued to exploit Alaska’s oil, gas, and other natural reserves. - Halting Green Policies:
Trump ended the Green New Deal initiatives, halted funds for green jobs, and rolled back electric vehicle mandates.
Diversity, Equity, and Gender Policies
- Transgender Rights and Gender Identity:
Trump issued an order recognizing only two sexes—male and female—affecting transgender rights in areas like federal funding, official documents, and civil protections. - Ending DEI Programs:
All federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs were abruptly shut down, with a mandate for immediate compliance. Trump described these programs as “radical and wasteful.”
Technology and TikTok Ban
Trump postponed a law banning TikTok by 75 days, stating the app must find an American owner. Previously a vocal supporter of banning the app, he reconsidered after TikTok generated significant attention for his campaign videos.
What’s Next?
As Trump’s presidency unfolds, the effects of these sweeping changes will be closely monitored. Whether it’s immigration reform, energy production, or federal policies on diversity and inclusion, his actions are already shaping domestic and global discussions.
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