President Donald Trump has commenced his second term by launching a flurry of policy initiatives aimed at reshaping the United States government. Through a series of executive orders, Trump addresses a variety of issues including trade, immigration, foreign aid, civil rights, and the composition of the federal workforce. While some of these measures are positioned to enact immediate changes, others have more symbolic implications, and various orders are already facing legal challenges in the courts.
These executive actions signify the president’s intent to implement key campaign promises and centralize power within the executive branch, steering the country in a more conservative direction. Below is a detailed breakdown of Trump’s actions within the initial three days of his new administration:
**Immigration and Border Policy**
Trump’s administration declared a state of invasion at the southern U.S. border, activating specific executive powers. The president has outlined various measures including assigning military personnel to aid in immigration enforcement, reexamining refugee admissions, and issuing directives to construct barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. One controversial directive aims to redefine birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, stating that children born to non-citizen parents do not automatically gain citizenship. This order has already sparked federal legal challenges.
Further, the administration is keen on enhancing collaboration between federal and local law enforcement in immigration matters, removing “catch-and-release” practices, and systematically reviewing cases involving immigrants under Temporary Protected Status. There is also significant emphasis on halting federal funds to sanctuary cities that do not comply with federal immigration enforcement.
**Trade and Economic Policies**
Trump is directing various executive agencies to prioritize policies that reduce consumer prices, review U.S. trade agreements like the USMCA, and impose new tariffs on trade partners, particularly Canada and Mexico. He is also initiating inquiries into trade practices with China and examining the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., proposing potential tariffs based on findings.
In a notable move, Trump’s administration has paused participation in international agreements aimed at global corporate taxation and briefly halted previously established bans on platforms like TikTok for national security evaluations.
**Climate, Energy, and Environmental Actions**
The president has announced the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement, declared a national energy emergency, and initiated steps to expedite energy projects while undermining Biden-era policies designed to promote renewable energy sources. Regulatory barriers for fossil fuel extraction, especially in Alaska, are being removed to support increased energy production.
Trump also seeks to realign federal permitting processes for energy projects, reinforcing fossil fuel initiatives and intending to reject climate-focused regulations established by the previous administration.
**Civil Rights and Diversity Initiatives**
Significant changes are anticipated in the realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within federal agencies. Trump has mandated the shutdown of DEI initiatives and has rescinded numerous policies advocating for racial and LGBTQ equity. Furthermore, federal identification documents will now only recognize binary gender classifications, which may affect various aspects of rights and recognition for transgender individuals.
**Federal Workforce Adjustments**
The administration has instituted a hiring freeze across most federal agencies, aside from immigration and military roles, while establishing a new Department of Government Efficiency tasked with proposing cuts to government spending. Existing protections for high-ranking civil service officials are also being reexamined, and federal workers are expected to return to in-person work arrangements.
**Health Care Policies**
On the health front, the Trump administration plans to roll back Biden-era directives facilitating access to Medicaid and other health care services. Controversially, the administration will exit the World Health Organization, halting U.S. financial contributions and seeking new partnerships for health initiatives globally.
**Foreign Policy and National Security**
In an about-face from his predecessor, Trump has lifted sanctions on certain Israeli groups while empowering officials to align foreign policy with an “America First” framework. Attention is being directed towards reviewing both foreign aid and security clearances for personnel involved in the previous administration’s dealings.
**Nationalism and Cultural Symbols**
Trump has taken measures to restore names and symbols he believes reflect American heritage, such as renaming Mount McKinley back to its original designation. Additionally, he has mandated his approval for architectural designs of federal buildings to ensure they reflect classical American styles.
Overall, these directives illustrate a determined effort by President Trump to implement conservative policies across a wide array of sectors, signaling his administration’s commitment towards shaping the government to align more closely with his vision for the country. Adjustments in the legal landscape, domestic governance, and international relations will continue to unfold as the administration proceeds with its stated goals.
