On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump made history as he was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, becoming the first American leader in serving non-consecutive terms. Shortly after taking the oath of office, Trump signed ambitious executive orders and actions, signalling his administration’s priorities and reaffirming his campaign promises. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these initial executive actions and their implications for domestic and foreign policy.
Immediate Actions and Executive Orders
Within hours of his inauguration, President Trump signed eight pivotal executive orders, marking a decisive return to his earlier policy agenda. Here’s a detailed breakdown of those orders:
1. Halting Biden-Era Actions
Trump’s first major move included halting 78 executive actions implemented by his predecessor, Joe Biden. This regulatory freeze prevents bureaucrats from issuing new regulations until the Trump administration is firmly in control.
2. Federal Hiring Freeze
A hiring freeze has been imposed across federal agencies, allowing exceptions only for military personnel and a few essential positions. This freeze reflects Trump’s commitment to limiting government expansion.
Also, Read This:: PM Modi Congratulates US President Donald Trump.
3. Return to In-Person Work
Trump mandated that all federal workers return to full-time, in-person work, ending remote work policies that had become common during the pandemic.
4. Addressing the Cost of Living Crisis
A directive was issued to federal departments and agencies to focus on the current cost of living crisis, underlining the administration’s commitment to economic stability.
5. Paris Climate Agreement Withdrawal
Trump ordered the beginning of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, signalling a shift back to energy policies favouring fossil fuel production over environmental regulations.
6. Protection of Free Speech
The President issued an executive order aimed at restoring freedom of speech and preventing what he termed the “weaponization of government” against dissenting voices.
7. Pardons Related to January 6 Riots
In a controversial move, Trump signed a full pardon for approximately 1,500 individuals who were involved on January 6, 2021, Capitol riots, along with commuting the sentences of 14 others.
8. Addressing Immigration
Trump declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, calling for military deployment in response to what he described as an “invasion.” He proposed measures to end birthright citizenship for children of non-permanent residents, although this move faces significant legal challenges.
Additional Executive Actions
In addition to the aforementioned orders, Trump’s initial actions include:
- Reprieve for TikTok: A 75-day delay on the ban of TikTok as negotiations for a national security agreement continue.
- Tariffs Review: Directing federal agencies to review tariffs and trade relations, signalling potential tariffs of up to 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico.
- Asylum Policy Changes: Suspending refugee resettlements for six months and reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy.
- Federal Death Penalty Policy: Directing the Department of Justice to seek the death penalty for illegal immigrants who commit violent acts against Americans.
The Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony, held inside the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol at 12:00 PM ET (10:30 PM IST), was notably moved indoors due to extreme cold weather conditions. Trump’s swearing-in was witnessed by a limited audience, consistent with COVID-19 protocols.
Conclusion
As Donald Trump embarks on his second term, the implementation of these executive orders sets a clear path for his administration’s focus on immigration, energy, and economic policies. The initial actions reflect a commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and prioritizing a conservative agenda.