President Trump Takes Office, Unleashes Barrage of Executive Actions on Day One

Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 21, 2025, in a ceremony held inside the Capitol. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office, marking the official start of Trump’s second non-consecutive term.

In his inaugural address, President Trump reiterated a central theme of his political platform, stating that his administration’s foremost priority would be to “put America first.” This pledge was swiftly followed by a wave of executive actions and directives, numbering 42 presidential actions on his first day, fundamentally altering policy across immigration, criminal justice, environmental regulations, public health, social programs, and economic initiatives.

Immediate Shifts on Immigration

Among the most significant actions were those targeting the southern border. President Trump declared a national emergency, signaling an intent to prioritize border security and enforcement. He vowed to undertake mass deportations, specifically targeting “millions and millions of criminal aliens.” Reintroducing the controversial “Remain in Mexico” policy for asylum seekers was also among the directives issued. This policy requires individuals seeking asylum in the U.S. to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed.

The new administration also dismantled a key Biden-era initiative aimed at reuniting families separated at the border during the previous Trump presidency, rescinding the interagency task force created for this purpose. Reports also surfaced shortly after the inauguration that the CBP One smartphone application, a tool used by asylum seekers to schedule appointments for processing, reportedly ceased functioning, leading to the cancellation of all scheduled appointments for refugee status claims. Furthermore, President Trump reinstated a travel ban affecting citizens from several predominantly Muslim nations, similar to a policy implemented during his first term.

Sweeping Pardons and January 6th Clemency

In a move drawing significant attention, President Trump granted sweeping pardons and commutations, many related to individuals involved in the events of January 6th, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol. He issued full, complete, and unconditional pardons to a number of Capitol rioters. Notably, this included Enrique Tarrio, the former national chairman of the Proud Boys organization, who had been sentenced to 22 years in federal prison for seditious conspiracy.

Additionally, President Trump commuted the sentences of 14 other individuals who had been charged with sedition. This group included Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers, whose sentence of 18 years was reduced. Clemency was also extended to a larger group, covering over 600 people who had been charged with assaulting or resisting law enforcement during the January 6th events.

Reversals on Climate and Health

The new administration moved quickly to reverse key international agreements. President Trump initiated the process for the U.S. to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, an international accord aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He also ordered the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing concerns about the organization’s handling of global health crises.

Changes to Social and Citizenship Policies

Domestically, the president took steps to roll back social policies enacted or supported by the previous administration. He issued orders rescinding federal diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across government agencies. Recognition of transgender identity in certain federal contexts was also reportedly rescinded. Another significant action was an order aiming to end birthright citizenship in the United States. This move, which challenges a long-standing interpretation of the 14th Amendment, is already facing legal challenges, with at least 22 states reportedly preparing or filing lawsuits.

Economic Vision: AI and Infrastructure Funding

Looking towards future economic growth, President Trump unveiled a major initiative dubbed “Stargate.” Described as a joint venture involving technology giants OpenAI, Oracle, and investment firm SoftBank, the project is planned to receive substantial funding – up to $500 billion – over the next four years. The ambitious goal of Stargate is to build AI data centers and infrastructure across the United States, with an aim to create over 100,000 jobs.

In parallel, the administration announced a significant pause in funding previously allocated for green infrastructure projects. This includes a halt on $300 billion in funding that had been designated under the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for initiatives related to clean energy and climate resilience.

President Trump’s first day in office signals a rapid and broad realignment of U.S. policy, utilizing executive authority to implement significant changes across a range of domestic and international fronts.