On his first day back in office, Donald Trump signed eight executive orders, marking a dramatic shift in US policy. These included halting 78 Biden-era regulations, freezing all federal hiring except for military and critical areas, and mandating the return of federal employees to in-person work. Trump also ordered a review of tariffs on trade with Mexico and Canada, signaling potential increases of up to 25%. Among his most controversial moves, Trump pardoned 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and commuted the sentences of 14 others, stirring mixed reactions nationwide.
Immigration policies saw a significant overhaul. Trump declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, deploying troops to curb what he called a “disastrous invasion.” He also signed orders ending birthright citizenship for children of non-permanent residents, though this faces legal challenges under the Constitution. Asylum policies were tightened with the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” program, a six-month suspension of refugee resettlement, and the end of “catch and release” practices. The Department of Justice was also directed to pursue the death penalty for illegal immigrants who commit violent crimes against Americans.
In the realm of international relations and energy policy, Trump took immediate action to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization (WHO). He invoked emergency powers to boost US energy production, reversing climate policies and expanding offshore drilling. Meanwhile, a freeze on regulations and inflation-focused measures aimed to address rising living costs. With these sweeping changes, Trump signaled his intent to aggressively pursue his campaign promises and reshape the federal government’s approach to key issues.
