Donald Trump officially became the 47th President of the United States on Monday, launching his term with a wave of executive actions. Within hours of taking the oath, he signed a historic number of orders, drawing cheers from a massive crowd gathered to witness the occasion.
In less than six hours, Trump signed numerous executive directives, many of which reversed key policies of the Biden administration. During his inaugural address, he announced immediate changes and emphasized his commitment to “America First” policies.
Sweeping Reforms Begin
After participating in the presidential parade, Trump signed nearly 80 executive orders. He declared his intent to undo the previous administration’s “destructive” policies, stating, “We will revoke nearly 80 radical actions and restore the American spirit.”
One of his top priorities was addressing immigration issues. Declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, he vowed to halt illegal immigration, deport individuals he labeled as “criminal aliens,” and deploy troops to secure the border.
Energy and Environmental Shifts
On energy policy, Trump announced a “national energy emergency” to boost fossil fuel production and lift mining restrictions. He pledged to capitalize on America’s oil and gas resources, saying, “Drill, baby, drill.” Additionally, he rolled back environmental policies, including the 2021 Paris Climate Accord, and ended federal support for electric vehicles, focusing instead on traditional energy sources.
Workforce and Censorship Policies
One of Trump’s first actions was to end remote work for federal employees, ordering them to return to in-person roles. The directive allows department heads to approve exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
Another significant move was an order aimed at “restoring freedom of speech.” Trump accused the Biden administration of censoring Americans on social media platforms, pledging to end what he called “federal censorship.”
Controversial Decisions
In a polarizing move, Trump renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” and implemented a policy recognizing only two genders—male and female—within the United States.
He also pardoned over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Trump described them as “hostages” of the previous administration, adding, “We hope they are freed tonight.”
Addressing Inflation
Trump signed a decree targeting inflation and high commodity prices, promising relief for American families. “We will use all our powers to make life more affordable for Americans,” he stated during his address.
A New Era Begins
Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office, with Vice President JD Vance sworn in shortly before Trump. The day marked the start of an administration focused on swift and significant policy changes, promising a bold path forward for the nation.