In a historic return to the Oval Office as the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump wasted no time in implementing sweeping policy changes. Within hours of being sworn in, Trump signed a series of executive orders that signaled a sharp pivot in domestic and international policy.
From a withdrawal from global agreements to significant changes in immigration and workplace policies, here’s a comprehensive look at his major actions on his first day back in office.
1. Exit from the World Health Organization
President Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), a move he justified by citing the disproportionate funding contributions made by the U.S. compared to China. “America First” was once again at the forefront, as Trump argued that the WHO had failed to deliver value for American taxpayers.
2. End of federal work-from-home policies
The pandemic-era work-from-home allowances for federal employees are officially over. Trump’s executive order requires all federal workers to return to full-time office roles to restore pre-pandemic productivity levels.
3. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord
Repeating a move from his first term, Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement. The decision marks his administration’s commitment to energy independence and skepticism toward global climate mandates, which he has criticized as unfair to American industries.
4. Tougher immigration policies
In a controversial move, Trump signed sweeping restrictions on immigration and asylum, declaring a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border. Key measures include sending troops to the southern border and initiating steps to end birthright citizenship.
5. Pardons for January 6 participants
In an unprecedented act, Trump issued pardons to 1,500 supporters involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. The pardons reignited debate over accountability and justice in the wake of the violent attempt to overturn the 2020 election results.
6. Repeal of diversity and LGBTQ equality policies
The president repealed various executive orders aimed at promoting diversity and LGBTQ equality. Trump stated that federal recognition would now be limited to “two genders: male and female,” a decision that drew sharp criticism from advocacy groups.
7. Declaration of a national energy emergency
Trump declared a “national energy emergency,” authorizing an aggressive expansion of domestic drilling operations. The administration framed the move as a step toward making the U.S. the world’s leading energy exporter.
8. TikTok ban temporarily paused
In a surprising turn, Trump ordered a 75-day pause on enforcing a law banning TikTok. The president suggested a potential partnership with the app’s Chinese owner, signaling a more pragmatic approach toward the platform’s future.
9. Reversal of sanctions on Israeli settlers
Trump revoked sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on Israeli settlers accused of abuses against Palestinians. This decision underscores a renewed emphasis on bolstering ties with Israel.
10. Removal of Cuba from the terror sponsor list
In a move reversing one of Joe Biden’s recent actions, Trump removed Cuba from the U.S. blacklist of state sponsors of terrorism. The decision is likely to redefine U.S.-Cuba relations in the coming years.
A bold beginning
Trump’s return to the presidency has set a decisive tone for the next four years. While his actions have energized his supporters, they have also sparked widespread criticism from his opponents and advocacy groups. As the nation braces for the implications of these sweeping changes, the political landscape in the U.S. is poised for further polarization.
