Trump’s Day 1 agenda: Citizenship, Paris deal, Death penalty
Donald Trump, newly sworn in as the 47th U.S. President, signed multiple executive orders within hours of taking office. He prioritized fulfilling his campaign promises, focusing on immigration, energy, national security, and the federal workforce.
Trump began by halting 78 Biden-era executive actions. He froze federal hiring, except for military and essential roles, and blocked bureaucrats from issuing new regulations until his administration gained full control. He also mandated federal workers to return to full-time, in-person work.
Addressing economic challenges, Trump directed agencies to tackle the cost-of-living crisis. He withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement and invoked emergency powers to boost energy production by reversing climate policies and promoting oil, gas, and mining activities. Trump also reinstated offshore drilling and ordered a refill of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
On immigration, Trump declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border. He deployed troops to counter what he called a “disastrous invasion.” He ended “catch and release” policies, suspended refugee resettlement for six months, and reinstated the “Remain in Mexico” policy. He signed orders to end automatic birthright citizenship for children of non-permanent residents, though this faces legal hurdles. He directed the Department of Justice to seek the death penalty for illegal immigrants who harm Americans.
Trump’s first executive order pardoned 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and commuted the sentences of 14 others. He also delayed TikTok’s ban for 75 days to allow further negotiations on a national security agreement. He directed federal agencies to review tariffs and trade relations with China, Mexico, and Canada, hinting at imposing tariffs up to 25% on Mexico and Canada by February 1.
In a move to restore free speech, Trump signed an order to prevent censorship and end the “weaponization of government.” He ordered the U.S. to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and reinforced federal recognition of only two sexes, male and female, in all regulations and documents.
Trump reinstated military service members expelled for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, promising full back pay. He also created an “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs, pledging significant revenue for the U.S. Treasury. He declared an inflation emergency, ordering agencies to reduce housing and healthcare costs while eliminating climate policies driving up energy prices.
Trump’s actions signal a sharp policy shift and a focus on delivering on his campaign promises. His administration’s directives aim to reshape domestic and international policies while addressing pressing economic and social issues.
