WASHINGTON D.C. — On his first day back in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump wasted no time signing a flurry of executive orders that have already triggered intense debate. From sweeping pardons tied to the January 6th Capitol assault to controversial changes in immigration and climate policies, the new administration’s actions are prompting both applause from Trump’s supporters and fierce backlash from critics. Below is a breakdown of some of the most significant—and contentious—orders announced on Inauguration Day.
Mass Pardons and “Weaponization” Claims
Among the most dramatic moves, President Trump issued pardons for around 1,500 people connected to the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. The directive immediately reignited discussions about accountability for those events. Trump also ordered federal prosecutors to drop cases against certain Biden-era “political opponents,” effectively reversing legal actions taken against many of his own backers.
Immigration Overhaul
National Emergency at Border: Reiterating a central theme from his earlier presidency, Trump declared a new national emergency at the southern border, authorizing the deployment of U.S. troops to bolster immigration enforcement.
Refugee Program Suspended: He suspended the U.S. Refugee Admission Program while officials conduct a “public safety and national security” review, a decision advocates say will jeopardize asylum seekers fleeing violence.
Ending Birthright Citizenship: In a move sure to ignite legal battles, the president signed an order aiming to end birthright citizenship. Constitutional experts predict immediate court challenges, given the 14th Amendment’s explicit language.
Asylum Restrictions: Trump signaled a return to forcing asylum seekers to remain in Mexico while awaiting their court dates—a policy criticized by human rights groups. He also ended the CBP One app, which had facilitated legal entry for nearly one million migrants.
Symbolic Name Changes and Domestic Policies
In largely symbolic gestures, Trump ordered the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and reverted the Alaskan peak Denali to its former name, Mount McKinley. Additionally, he signed an order to ensure flags fly at full height on future Inauguration Days, departing from the typical practice of half-staff as a sign of somber reflection. Another directive promotes “Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture,” echoing a preference for classical design in government buildings.
Rolling Back Federal Protections
Transgender Policies: One of Trump’s most controversial moves was rescinding federal protections for transgender individuals. Under the new directive, the government will only recognize “male or female” based on reproductive capacity, affecting federal prisons, homeless shelters, and health coverage for transition-related care.
Ending DEI Programs: Trump also ended various diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across the federal government. The White House will now identify and discontinue such programs, a shift that has alarmed civil rights advocates and drawn praise from some conservative groups.
Trade and TikTok Decisions
Tariffs on Neighbors: The president announced a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, to take effect February 1. Plans for additional tariffs targeting China are expected but remain vague. Businesses on both sides of the border are bracing for the economic impact.
TikTok Ban Pause: Trump temporarily put a hold on a congressional ban of TikTok for 75 days, giving the social media giant time to negotiate a potential U.S. buyer to address national security concerns. Observers say the final decision could shape the landscape of tech regulation.
Foreign Relations and Security
WHO Withdrawal & Foreign Aid Review: Signaling a return to a more isolationist stance, Trump is once again withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization and ordering a comprehensive review of foreign aid expenditures.
Security Clearance Revocations: Several high-profile figures—mostly former intelligence and national security officials under the Biden administration—had their active security clearances revoked. Critics call it an abuse of power, while Trump’s team cites national security interests.
Climate and Energy Policy Reversals
Paris Climate Agreement Exit: In a direct reversal of the previous administration’s stance, the U.S. will withdraw from the Paris Climate Accords, reigniting global debate on America’s role in combating climate change.
Energy Emergency & Drilling: Citing an “energy emergency,” Trump declared plans to expand domestic oil drilling and roll back electric vehicle mandates introduced under Biden. Environmental groups are already mobilizing legal challenges.
Administrative Changes
Government Hiring Freeze: Following a familiar playbook, Trump imposed a freeze on new federal hires, except for the military and unspecified “critical” roles. Critics warn that understaffing could hamper vital government services.
Regulatory Freeze: Finally, the president placed a pause on issuing new federal regulations. The move is seen as a push to dismantle what Trump calls burdensome red tape—though opponents say it halts important consumer, environmental, and workplace protections.
Immediate Fallout and Next Steps
With these executive orders now in place, political observers predict rapid legal battles on multiple fronts, especially over birthright citizenship, transgender protections, and the Paris Agreement exit. As the nation grapples with this swift pivot in policy, the White House insists these measures fulfill Trump’s campaign promises and reflect a renewed vision for the country. Critics, however, argue the rapid-fire moves threaten democratic norms, civil rights, and global alliances.
As the administration presses forward, the courts, Congress, and public opinion will likely serve as the crucial checks on the far-reaching changes outlined by President Trump’s Day One agenda.