Donald Trump, on January 20, began his term as the 47th President of the United States with a series of bold executive orders. These directives aimed to reverse Biden-era policies and set the tone for Trump's second presidency. From withdrawing the US from international agreements to reshaping domestic policies, here’s an overview of the significant actions taken by Trump on his first day in office.
1. Undoing Biden-Era Executive Actions
Trump signed 80 executive orders to repeal nearly 78 actions from the previous administration. This sweeping move targeted what Trump described as "radical and destructive policies," signaling his intent to reshape the federal government from Day 1.
2. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement
The US President ordered the country’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, citing its adverse impact on American industries. Trump also sent a formal notification to the United Nations to begin the year-long withdrawal process.
3. Immigration Crackdown and Border Security
Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border and announced the immediate deployment of troops to halt illegal entry. He also signed orders targeting automatic birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants and designated criminal cartels as terrorist organizations.
4. Focus on Government Efficiency
Trump established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, to streamline operations and reduce government expenditures. Critics have already filed lawsuits challenging the new advisory group's operations.
5. Free Speech and Censorship Reforms
Trump implemented measures to counter what he claimed were attempts by federal agencies to suppress free speech, particularly on online platforms. The new directives aim to rebuild public trust in institutions.
6. Reversing EV and Climate-Related Policies
The President revoked Biden’s executive order for a 50% electric vehicle sales target by 2030. Trump also halted the distribution of unspent government funds for EV charging stations and vowed to review tax credits for electric vehicles.
7. TikTok and National Security Concerns
Trump temporarily delayed a ban on TikTok, granting the app’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, 75 days to address national security concerns.
8. Trade Policies and Tariffs
Trump reiterated his tariff threats on BRICS nations if they continued de-dollarization efforts. While holding back on new China tariffs, he announced plans for a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico starting February 1.
9. Pardons and Commutations
Trump issued around 1,500 pardons and commuted the sentences of 14 supporters involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.
10. Rescinding Sanctions on Israeli Settlers
Trump reversed Biden-era sanctions on far-right Israeli settler groups accused of violence in the occupied West Bank.
Implications of Day 1 Actions
Trump’s first-day policies reflect a determined approach to deliver on campaign promises. While some measures, like the Paris Agreement withdrawal, will face international criticism, others, such as immigration crackdowns and tariff plans, could significantly impact domestic and global economics. The introduction of DOGE signals a shift toward private-sector-led efficiency in governance.
As Trump's presidency unfolds, the repercussions of these decisions will shape America's future and its role on the global stage.