In a dramatic return to political power, former President Donald Trump is poised to sign close to 100 executive orders when he takes office again on January 20, 2025. This flurry of action is expected to shape numerous areas including immigration, environmental policy, and social issues, marking a significant change from the previous administration’s approaches.
Immigration Changes Ahead
One of Trump’s priority areas appears to be immigration, where he has indicated plans to take stringent actions. This includes declaring a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, geared towards reinforcing constraints on refugees and asylum seekers. Moreover, he aims to focus on his previous policies requiring migrants to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed, an approach that has received both support and criticism.
Pushing the Energy Agenda
In his first few hours back in the Oval Office, Trump is set to re-energize the U.S. energy sector. His executive orders are expected to boost American energy production, facilitating more drilling in key areas. Additionally, he plans to declare a “national energy emergency” to expedite this mission, reversing many of the environmental steps taken previously.
Climate Policy Reversal
In a move that echoes his earlier presidency, Trump plans to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement yet again. His administration argues that taxpayer dollars should not support foreign countries not in need, seeking to redirect resources back to domestic initiatives aimed at energy independence and development.
Social Reforms and DEI Initiatives
Social policies are high on Trump’s agenda as well. He aims to end several diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies. Tying his actions to redefining gender roles, Trump’s policies will focus on reinstating traditional definitions based on biological sex and may set the stage for further debates about gender rights in the workplace.
Federal Work Policies Under Review
Trump’s administration has also mentioned instituting a federal hiring freeze, although exceptions will be available for national security and public safety roles. Additionally, he plans to revert federal employees back to a standard five-day work week, a change expected to reshape how government operations are conducted moving forward.
Pardons for January 6 Defendants
Another controversial aspect of Trump’s impending executive actions includes pardoning individuals linked to the events of January 6, 2021. Reports suggest that Trump has prepared pardons for a significant number of individuals who have faced charges related to the Capitol riots. This move is likely to spark renewed discussions about accountability and justice surrounding that pivotal day.
Renaming Initiatives
In a nod to symbolic gestures, Trump intends to change the name of Alaska’s Denali back to its former name, Mount McKinley, further reflecting his policy of reinstating names he believes align closely with American heritage. He also proposes renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, actions that some are viewing as small yet meaningful victories in the realm of national identity and pride.
Flags and Inauguration Day Protocols
As part of his inauguration day actions, Trump has signed an order to ensure flags are flown at full staff throughout the day, symbolizing a new beginning and an assertion of dignity that he believes is central to his return to office. This move, along with the array of policies he is set to unveil, is designed to signify a robust new direction for his second term.
| Policy Area | Action |
|---|---|
| Immigration | Declare national emergency at U.S.-Mexico border |
| Energy | Boost domestic energy production |
| Pardons | Pardons for January 6 defendants |
| Climate Policy | Withdraw from Paris Climate Agreement |
| Federal Work Policies | Implement hiring freeze and five-day workweek |
| Name Changes | Rename Denali to Mount McKinley |
As Trump prepares to take the stage once more, the actions he is set to sign will not only shape his administration but may also influence key debates and policies in the country for years to come, signaling a bold step into a new political landscape. The anticipation surrounding his return underscores the ongoing divisions in American society and politics as the country gears up for another intense election cycle.
