On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump commenced his second term by signing a series of executive orders that significantly redirected U.S. policies across various domains. These actions encompassed immigration, energy, healthcare, military affairs, and social issues, reflecting a return to many of his earlier stances.
Immigration and Border Security
President Trump declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, facilitating the deployment of troops to curb illegal immigration, narcotics trafficking, and human smuggling. He resumed construction of the border wall and designated Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. Additionally, he signed an executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants and those on temporary visas, a move that has already prompted legal challenges.
Energy and Environmental Policies
Reversing previous environmental commitments, President Trump signed the “Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements” executive order, directing the withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. He also declared a “national energy emergency” to boost oil and gas production, signaling a shift away from renewable energy initiatives.
Healthcare and Pandemic Response
In a move affecting global health collaboration, President Trump issued an executive order titled “Withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization,” directing the cessation of U.S. participation in the organization. This decision was based on criticisms of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged political interference.
Military and Defense
The President outlined plans for a comprehensive military overhaul, including the reinstatement, with back pay, of over 8,000 troops previously dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. He also ordered the deployment of troops to the southern border and nominated Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, emphasizing a focus on restoring military readiness and removing “radical political theories” from military practices.
Social Policies and Civil Rights
Among the executive orders, President Trump signed “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism And Restoring Biological Truth To The Federal Government,” which established strict binary definitions of sex and rescinded several policies related to gender identity. This order has been met with strong opposition from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
Pardons and Legal Actions
In a controversial move, President Trump pardoned approximately 1,500 individuals convicted in relation to the January 6 Capitol riot, a decision that has drawn significant criticism from various sectors.
Technological Investments
On a different front, the President announced a $500 billion investment in artificial intelligence development in Texas, collaborating with companies such as Oracle, OpenAI, and SoftBank, aiming to position the U.S. at the forefront of AI technology.
These executive actions have elicited a spectrum of responses domestically and internationally. While supporters view them as fulfilling campaign promises and reasserting national priorities, critics express concerns over potential legal challenges, social implications, and the impact on international relations. The full ramifications of these orders will unfold as they are implemented and contested in various arenas.
