Donald Trump signed a flurry of executive orders on his inauguration day Monday, marking a significant shift in policies. Executive orders are directives the president issues without having to consult Congress, which is in charge of passing regular laws. The president can circumvent the House and the Senate by issuing his own instructions directly to federal officials. Here are some of the key executive orders:
Trade and Economy: Trump signed an order to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico starting February 1. He also plans to review existing tariff policies with China and has suspended US foreign assistance for 90 days pending reviews.
Immigration: Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, planning to deploy military forces to enhance security. He also aims to complete the US-Mexico border wall, end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented individuals, and reinstate policies like "Remain in Mexico".
Energy and Climate: Trump has signed the executive order on the US' exit from the World Health Organisation (WHO). He officially withdrew the US from the Paris Climate Agreement and plans to dismantle Biden-era climate policies. He aims to prioritize domestic energy production, expand oil and gas drilling, and refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
Socio-cultural Policies: Trump's administration will enforce policies recognizing only two genders, which will apply to government documents and regulations. He also plans to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federal agencies and the military.
National Security: Trump reaffirmed his promise to reinstate military personnel discharged for refusing Covid-19 vaccinations and granted them full back pay. He also declared his intention to reclaim control of the Panama Canal.
Pardons: Trump issued around 1,500 pardons and commuted the sentences of 14 of his supporters in connection with the January 6, 2021, US Capitol attack.
Revocation of Biden's Executive Orders: Trump revoked 78 executive orders signed by his predecessor, Joe Biden, including those related to racial equity, climate change, and Covid-19 response.
Citizenship: Trump signed an executive order seeking to withhold US citizenship from children of undocumented immigrants born in the United States.
Other Orders: Trump also signed orders to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America", delay the TikTok ban.
