In his first day back in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump signed an unprecedented series of executive orders that signal a bold return to the policies and promises that defined his earlier administration.
With a focus on immigration, education, federal workforce reforms, national security, and global diplomacy, Trump wasted no time taking decisive action.
Among the most significant orders was a full pardon for over 1,500 defendants involved in the events of January 6, 2021, along with six commutations for prisoners.
Immigration
On immigration, Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, citing an “unprecedented invasion” of illegal aliens.
His orders include immediate actions to secure the border through enhanced physical barriers, terminating the CBP One app, and invoking executive powers to protect states from what he termed an “invasion.”
Additionally, birthright citizenship was ended through executive action, a move long anticipated by his supporters.
Education
Trump’s education reform measures also drew significant attention. He signed orders dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the federal government and public education.
He rescinded several Department of Education documents related to gender ideology and directed federal agencies to eliminate DEI programs deemed “unlawful and radical.” In his words, this marks a return to policies rooted in “American principles and interests.”
Federal Workforce
The president also moved swiftly to restore accountability within the federal workforce.
He revived and amended the controversial “Schedule F” executive order, now renamed “Schedule Policy/Career,” which aims to streamline the process of removing poor-performing civil service employees.
Trump’s directive ensures that career positions will not require political allegiance but demands adherence to constitutional oaths and administration policies.
WHO Withdrawal
Foreign policy decisions were equally bold.
Trump ordered the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the organization’s failure to implement necessary reforms and its alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Funding to the WHO has been halted, and U.S. personnel have been recalled, with plans to seek alternative partnerships for global health initiatives.
Revoking Security Clearances
In a move likely to stir controversy, Trump revoked the security clearances of 50 former intelligence officials, including John Bolton, who were involved in signing a 2020 letter that dismissed reports about Hunter Biden’s laptop as Russian disinformation.
The order criticized the use of their positions to influence the political process and directed the Director of National Intelligence to investigate the matter further.
Energy Policy
Trump also addressed energy and environmental policy, declaring a national energy emergency.
His orders aim to increase domestic energy production, ease regulatory barriers, and review wind power leasing practices.
Additionally, he directed protections for Alaska’s resource development and Southern California’s water access against what he described as “radical environmentalism.”
Other Notable Actions
Other notable actions included declaring cartels as terrorist organizations, reinstating the death penalty, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.
He also issued an “America-First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State,” emphasizing his administration’s commitment to prioritizing U.S. interests in international dealings.
While these actions have been widely praised by Trump supporters, they are expected to face significant pushback from political opponents and advocacy groups.
For Trump’s base, however, these sweeping measures reaffirm his campaign promises and his vision of putting America first. From border security to federal reforms and foreign relations, the first day of his presidency has set a clear tone for the next four years.