Since stepping back into the White House on January 20, Donald Trump has hit the ground running, signing an impressive 79 executive orders.
These orders span a wide range of issues from foreign policy to civil rights and gender matters, showcasing Trump’s intention to make significant changes early in his term.
With a tight grip on Congress, Trump’s administration is looking to use these executive actions to swiftly transform the government.
A Historic Number of Executive Orders
According to the Federal Register, Trump’s signing spree has set a historical precedent.
No president in modern history has signed so many executive orders so quickly since 1937.
However, his aggressive approach has not gone without controversy.
As of February 27, 16 of these orders have already been challenged in court, with legal battles continuing to unfold across various sectors.
Trump’s Focus on the Economy and Trade
Trump’s administration has placed a heavy emphasis on the economy, with 27 of his orders tackling trade, customs duties, and energy policy.
Notably, he’s targeted Canada, Mexico, and China with threats of tariffs, while also taking steps to promote fossil fuel reliance.
Trump’s push to “drill, baby, drill” has led to moves like declaring a “national energy emergency,” while also counteracting green energy projects.
His stance on environmental issues is evident in his orders against electric cars, wind projects, and his preference for plastic straws over paper.
Diversity, Gender, and Transgender Rights
Another major area of focus for Trump has been diversity and gender. His administration has taken aim at policies related to gender equality, often as part of his wider crusade against transgender rights. He has issued orders restricting transgender people from serving in the military and has limited access to gender transition procedures for minors. Additionally, his orders have rolled back efforts aimed at combating racism and sexism in the workplace, all of which are currently under legal challenge.
Immigration and Border Control Measures
Trump has also made immigration one of his key priorities, signing 15 orders that focus on limiting immigration and changing laws surrounding citizenship.
He has notably frozen refugee admissions, arguing that they harm U.S. interests, though a court has blocked this order.
Trump’s administration also sought to reinterpret the 14th Amendment, which guarantees birthright citizenship, igniting a legal battle that could ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
Establishment of DOGE Under Elon Musk’s Leadership
Six of Trump’s executive orders have centered around government efficiency, delegating authority to the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The department, which has been placed under Elon Musk’s leadership, aims to reduce administrative burdens within federal agencies.
Trump’s recent order calls for the dismantling of what he describes as the “overbearing and burdensome administrative state.”
Health Policy Shifts Under Trump’s Orders
Trump’s health-related orders, totaling 13, have made waves as well.
Shortly after returning to office, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organization and rescinded policies from the Biden administration that protected abortion-related services.
Additionally, he signed orders reinstating military personnel dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine and banned federal funding for schools that imposed vaccine mandates.
Tech and Cryptocurrency Orders Amid Growing Concerns
Trump’s influence extends into technology with 10 executive orders, including ones addressing cryptocurrencies and artificial intelligence.
His administration has been closely advised by Elon Musk, who has significant government contracts despite ongoing concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead for Trump’s Administration
With such an ambitious start to his second term, Trump’s executive orders have clearly made an impact across various sectors.
However, with numerous challenges already underway in the courts and a divided Congress, it remains to be seen how many of these actions will stand the test of time.
As the legal battles unfold and further orders are issued, the course of Trump’s presidency will continue to shape the future of the U.S. government.