President Donald Trump has begun his second term in office with a sweeping array of executive actions aimed at reshaping the U.S. government and its policies.
The directives, which touch on immigration, trade, civil rights, and environmental regulations, reflect his campaign promises and signal a determined shift in governance.
Some of the orders have immediate implications, while others are largely symbolic or already facing legal challenges. The overarching theme is a consolidation of executive power in the West Wing and a clear pivot toward Trump’s vision for the country.
Immigration and Border Policies
Trump declared the situation at the southern border a national “invasion,” empowering his administration to use military resources for enforcement. Service members from the National Guard and Ready Reserve may now support border operations, a move raising questions about the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in domestic law enforcement.
Refugee admissions have been suspended pending a 90-day review, and a new interpretation of the 14th Amendment seeks to redefine birthright citizenship. Construction of the border wall is prioritized, and new agreements are being encouraged between federal and local law enforcement to target criminal organizations. DNA collection and stricter detention policies are being mandated for immigration enforcement.
Trade and Economic Policy
The administration has ordered reviews of trade agreements like the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and is considering new tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. Trump has also initiated steps to create an “External Revenue Service” to oversee trade-related revenues and has paused the U.S. ban on TikTok while the administration evaluates national security risks.
Climate and Energy
The U.S. has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement, with Trump declaring a “national energy emergency” to expedite fossil fuel development. Agencies are directed to eliminate regulations hindering oil, gas, and coal production. Renewable energy initiatives, including wind energy leases and electric vehicle incentives, have been rolled back.
Civil Rights and Federal Workforce
The administration has eliminated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies, discontinued protections for transgender individuals, and dissolved the White House Gender Policy Council. Federal hiring has been frozen, and steps have been taken to make it easier to terminate senior career officials.
A Bold Start
Trump’s aggressive start to his second administration highlights his commitment to fulfilling campaign pledges and reversing many Biden-era policies. As legal battles and political debates unfold, the nation braces for significant changes in governance and policy direction.
Keep up with important updates from Trump’s second administration with us on QueOndaMagazine.com.
