Donald Trump signs executive orders on his first day as president
Donald Trump, the 47th president of the United States, wasted no time implementing his agenda through a series of executive actions, touching on immigration, climate, and government reforms, reports a Kazinform News Agency correspondent.
At the White House, the Republican president quickly used his new powers to sign executive actions, memos, and orders addressing various policies. While executive orders have the force of law, they can be overturned by future presidents or courts. Many of Trump’s orders are expected to face legal challenges.
Here’s a summary of the key actions:
Immigration
Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, reinstating policies like the “Remain in Mexico” program, which sends asylum seekers back across the border to await hearings. He aimed to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, citing the 14th Amendment, sparking immediate legal battles. Trump also resumed efforts to construct barriers along the southern border and reinstated the death penalty for certain crimes committed by undocumented individuals.
Additionally, he terminated the CHNV immigration program, which allowed migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U.S., and ended the “catch and release” policy, vowing a robust deportation agenda.
Technology and economy
Trump postponed a TikTok ban for 75 days, allowing the platform to operate as its parent company seeks a U.S. buyer. He signed a directive aimed at tackling inflation by reducing housing, healthcare, and energy costs, although specifics remain unclear.
Government and free speech
A new Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), led by Elon Musk, was established to streamline government operations. Federal hiring was frozen, and remote work for government employees ended. Trump also issued orders to restore “freedom of speech” and investigate alleged political weaponization in federal agencies.
Climate and energy
Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, marking the second time he has taken this action. He declared a national energy emergency, encouraging increased fossil fuel production and halting Biden-era green initiatives, including renewable energy projects and electric vehicle mandates.
Foreign policy
Trump reinstated sanctions on Cuba and Venezuela, reversed Biden’s decision to remove Cuba from the state sponsors of terrorism list, and paused foreign aid programs to focus on an “America First” approach. He also signed an executive order to begin withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing dissatisfaction with its handling of global health crises.
Social issues
Trump ended federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and declared only two recognized sexes, affecting transgender policies across government documents and federal funding.
Geography and symbolism
Trump signed an order to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and directed that Alaska’s Mount Denali be renamed Mount McKinley, reverting to its historical name.
Pardons and legal reversals
Trump pardoned nearly 1,600 individuals connected to the Capitol riot and commuted the sentences of members of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys—far-right groups convicted of seditious conspiracy for their roles in the event.
Future plans
Trump hinted at upcoming actions, including potential tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as releasing classified documents related to historical events. He has also expressed interest in creating a federal Bitcoin reserve to serve as a “permanent national asset”.
While sweeping in scope, many of Trump’s actions face significant legal and political challenges. His early days in office reflect his determination to implement his agenda, despite the controversies they provoke.
Earlier, it was reported that Donald Trump was sworn in on Monday, officially becoming the 47th President of the United States.
