Trump signed slew of executive orders on Day 1. What are his priorities?

Trump signed slew of executive orders on Day 1. What are his priorities?

Trump signed slew of executive orders on Day 1. What are his priorities?

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has wasted no time in enacting a wave of executive actions on his first day back in office. These orders and memoranda target key areas of his agenda, including immigration, the economy, energy policy, and social issues, while reversing many policies from former President Joe Biden’s administration. Here’s a breakdown of Trump’s initial moves and upcoming plans:
Pardons for Jan. 6 Capitol Attackers

Fulfilling a campaign promise, Trump issued pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted or charged for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He also ordered federal cases dropped against supporters of his campaign, framing it as a move to end the “weaponization” of federal law enforcement. Critics argue these actions benefit his allies while undermining accountability.
Economic Policies and TikTok

In a high-profile signing ceremony, Trump pledged to combat inflation by rolling back regulations on oil and gas production, with Alaska targeted for expanded drilling. He also announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, though details remain unclear.

On TikTok, Trump signed an order temporarily pausing a congressional ban on the app, granting a 75-day window to find a U.S. buyer that meets national security requirements while allowing the platform to remain accessible.
"America First" Foreign Policy

Trump renewed his isolationist approach, withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization and ordering a comprehensive review of foreign aid spending. Symbolic actions included renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" and restoring the name Mount McKinley to North America's highest peak, reversing changes made during the Obama administration.
Immigration Crackdown

Trump reinstated stricter immigration policies, prioritizing deportation for all undocumented individuals rather than focusing on those with serious criminal records. He declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border and plans to deploy troops to support border enforcement.

The president also suspended the U.S. Refugee Admission Program and began efforts to end birthright citizenship, though the latter is likely to face significant legal challenges. Trump eliminated the CBP One app, a tool introduced during the Biden administration to facilitate legal entry for migrants, and signaled a return to the "Remain in Mexico" policy for asylum seekers.
Climate and Energy

As expected, Trump formally withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement and declared an energy emergency, emphasizing expanded fossil fuel production under the slogan “drill, baby, drill.” He also vowed to repeal Biden-era policies encouraging electric vehicle adoption.
Federal Bureaucracy and Government Reform

Trump froze federal hiring, except for the military, and halted the creation of new regulations. He established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to propose deep cuts to federal programs and spending. Although not a formal agency, DOGE is expected to wield significant influence.
Social Policies: DEI Programs and Transgender Rights

Trump rolled back protections for transgender individuals, defining gender strictly by biological sex and restricting federal funding for gender transition services. He also ordered federal shelters and prisons to operate based on these definitions.

Additionally, Trump terminated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the federal government, directing their complete removal in line with his campaign promises.
What Lies Ahead

Trump’s swift and sweeping actions reflect his commitment to reshaping government policy to align with his "America First" agenda. While his supporters have welcomed these moves, opponents argue they exacerbate division and roll back hard-fought progress on social and environmental issues. As Trump’s administration takes shape, his policies are sure to spark intense debate and legal challenges across the country.