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WASHINGTON — Donald Trump, having surmounted impeachments, multiple criminal charges, and even attempts on his life, was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States on Monday. This event marks a new chapter as the Republican Party claims extensive control over Washington with plans to reform the nation’s institutions.
The swearing-in ceremony was relocated indoors due to severe cold weather. Following his inauguration, Trump participated in a celebratory parade at Capital One Arena and took immediate executive action by signing several orders, including pardons for individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol.
In international news, Choi Sang-mok, the acting leader of South Korea, expressed optimism regarding improved relations with the United States under Trump. He has instructed officials to enhance communication with the new U.S. administration, hoping for a strengthened alliance built on their longstanding military partnership. Choi also voiced concerns about potential trade policies under the Trump administration that could significantly impact South Korea’s export-reliant economy.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel accused Trump’s administration of “arrogance” after Cuba was redesignated as a state sponsor of terrorism. He argued that this designation, combined with the U.S. embargo, leads to severe shortages in Cuba, exacerbating the emigration crisis to the United States. Trump’s restoration of this designation reversed a previous order lifted by Biden.
Trump’s inauguration was attended by numerous influential tech CEOs, signaling a departure from traditional seating which typically accommodates family and prior presidents. This change has prompted discussions about Trump’s relationships with the wealthy elite despite his blue-collar rhetoric.
Enrique Tarrio’s attorney remarked that the pardon for the former Proud Boys chairman denotes a significant moment for the nation, maintaining that the prosecution was politically motivated. Meanwhile, Metropolitan police officer Daniel Hodges, who defended the Capitol on January 6, shared his astonishment at Trump’s mass pardons while reflecting on his day’s duty to ensure the inauguration remained peaceful.
In a directive signed by Trump, some aides will now receive provisional six-month security clearances while their federal background checks are pending. This memorandum aims to expedite their access to critical government information after a previous delay by the outgoing administration.
Trump has also hinted at invoking historical wartime powers to facilitate the deportation of gang members identified as foreign terrorists, instructing Homeland Security and Justice departments to prepare accordingly. Such measures could classify organizations like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua as terrorist entities.
His administration swiftly moved to stop offshore wind energy projects with his latest executive order, mandating a review of current federal leasing practices and their environmental impacts. Trump is known for favoring fossil fuel extraction over renewable resources, indicating a commitment to oil and gas drilling in place of wind energy.
The newly inaugurated president received congratulations from Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, reinforcing Taiwan’s connection with the U.S. amid ongoing tensions with China. Lai anticipates collaboration with the Trump administration to ensure regional peace and stability.
Trump made headlines with a sweeping order aimed at reinforcing the death penalty. He directed the attorney general to ensure states have adequate supplies of lethal injection drugs, signaling a return to a stringent approach on capital punishment.
Addressing the volatile situation in Gaza, Trump expressed skepticism about the durability of a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. He commented on the potential for rebuilding Gaza, viewing it as an opportunity for improvement rather than mere devastation.
Moreover, Trump’s administration temporary halted U.S. foreign assistance programs for evaluations concerning alignment with his policy directives. Many existing programs might feel the impact, but the extent remains unclear given prior congressional appropriations.
Public sentiment regarding local police cooperation with immigration enforcement reveals a divided perspective, with a significant portion of Americans supporting limited collaboration. Statistical insights suggest heightened demand for local police to engage in such efforts among Republican demographics.
Trump reinstated the immigration deportation conditions that were present during his 2017 term, targeting various undocumented individuals rather than focusing solely on those with criminal records. Plans are underway to reevaluate federal grants to ‘sanctuary’ areas where local authorities restrict cooperation with immigration enforcement.
Leaders from the House and Senate are set to discuss priorities with Trump, which are expected to include enhancing police collaboration with federal immigration efforts. Meanwhile, union leaders voiced opposition to Trump’s freeze on federal hiring due to what they see as lacking a valid justification.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized Trump’s pardons for January 6 defendants, labeling them as disgraceful, while Trump expressed admiration for Bill Clinton’s political savvy.
Another executive order in the works involves a renewed effort to withdraw from the World Health Organization, sparking concerns about its implications for global health initiatives.
Trump’s first day back in the Oval Office saw a whirlwind of executive action, including halting past administration policies and mandating an in-person return for federal employees. Among his directives were new restrictions on the federal workforce and plans for thorough reviews of aid programs, demonstrating a firm stance on several critical legislative issues.
Lastly, Trump’s first executive orders encompassed significant changes impacting immigration, foreign relations, and federal hiring practices, reinforcing his commitment to reshape the government on his terms.
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