Executive Action: How Trump’s Second Term Advances His First-Term Legacy
On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump wasted no time executing his policy reforms, signing a flurry of executive orders aimed at reversing Biden-era policies, fulfilling campaign promises, and building on the foundation of his first-term accomplishments. These new executive actions reflect a continuation of the key themes that defined Trump’s initial presidency, focusing on immigration, economic growth, national security, and a return to energy independence.
Before delving into the specifics of these new orders, it’s important to revisit the major achievements of Trump’s first term, which set the stage for his current policy initiatives. From the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 to the creation of the United States Space Force, Trump’s first term was marked by sweeping changes. His administration achieved record-low unemployment rates, brokered the historic Abraham Accords, secured significant judicial appointments, and led the territorial defeat of ISIS. These accomplishments underscore the continuity between his past policies and the bold steps being taken in his second term.
Trump issued multiple executive orders targeting immigration, including reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy and suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. He declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, deploying troops and calling for additional border barriers. In a controversial move, he attempted to end birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants, a policy that immediately faced legal challenges. Trump also designated several international cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and empowered officials to remove individuals engaged in what he termed an “invasion” of the southern border.
Trump declared a “national energy emergency,” expediting deregulated oil and gas drilling, particularly in Alaska. He rescinded Biden’s protections for coastal areas and paused offshore wind leasing. Trump also withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement for the second time, criticized Biden’s clean energy goals, and revoked policies promoting electric vehicle adoption. Additionally, he restarted liquefied natural gas export projects that had been paused under Biden.
In a push against woke culture, Trump dismantled diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across the federal government. He issued an order recognizing only two sexes, male and female, on official documents, reversing Biden-era policies on transgender rights. Trump also paved the way to reinstate a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military.
Trump reinstated a hiring freeze for federal workers (excluding the military and immigration enforcement) and ordered a full-time return to in-office work. He revived the Schedule F executive order from his first term, making it easier to fire civil servants deemed disloyal. Trump also pardoned a large number of January 6 defendants.
Trump withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing its handling of COVID-19 and political influence. He rescinded Biden’s executive order to lower prescription drug costs and issued orders to review trade practices and safeguard free speech.
Trump signed numerous other orders, including: Revoking security clearances of former officials who he felt betrayed the American people. Declaring that federal buildings should follow traditional architectural styles. Suspending the TikTok ban for 75 days while reviewing its impact. Establishing the Department of Government Efficiency to streamline federal operations.
These executive orders underscore Trump’s focus on immigration control, energy independence, cultural conservatism, and undoing destructive Biden-era policies. While many of these orders are likely to face legal challenges, they remain firmly aligned with Trump’s campaign promises. Despite criticism from the media and liberal or Democratic establishments, claims that he has not delivered on his commitments to voters would be baseless. Beyond keeping his promises, these executive orders are significant because they tackle major policy issues that resonate with the concerns of over half of Americans. Trump has repeatedly emphasized his dedication to “Make America Great Again.” Far from being just a campaign slogan, these executive orders are tangible steps toward realizing that vision.
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