Donald Trump began his second nonconsecutive term as U.S. president with a series of executive orders targeting key policy areas. On his first day back in the White House, he signed actions aimed at overhauling immigration, energy, and economic policies. These moves fulfill many of his campaign promises and signal a significant departure from the previous administration’s agenda.
Sweeping Changes to US Immigration Policy
President Trump took immediate and decisive action on immigration, a central theme of his campaign. His orders are set to reshape how the U.S. manages its southern border and processes migrants. The changes were implemented swiftly, leaving many in uncertain situations.
Among the most impactful moves was the shutdown of the CBP One app, a government tool that allowed migrants to schedule appointments for legal entry. The app was deactivated immediately, and all existing appointments were canceled. This leaves thousands of asylum seekers without a clear path forward.
Additionally, Trump reinstated several controversial policies from his first term. Key among them are:
- National Border Emergency: This declaration authorizes the deployment of the military to the southern border to help stop illegal crossings.
- “Remain in Mexico” Policy: Asylum seekers will once again be required to wait in Mexico while their cases are heard in U.S. courts.
- End of “Catch-and-Release”: This practice, which allowed some migrants to be released into the U.S. while awaiting hearings, has been abolished.
Critics warn that these policies could create chaos at the border and harm industries that rely on immigrant labor, such as agriculture.
Reversing Course on Energy and Climate
In another major shift, Trump declared a national energy emergency, blaming rising prices for inflation. He directly targeted green energy initiatives, most notably by revoking the federal electric vehicle (EV) mandate. Trump argued the mandate was damaging the American auto industry.
“We’re ending the Green New Deal today,” Trump announced during a signing event. He claimed the policy was forcing car manufacturers to meet unrealistic production goals for EVs. This action is part of a broader effort to promote fossil fuels and roll back environmental regulations.
Energy experts, however, caution that the president’s orders may not have an immediate effect on gas prices. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy noted that while deregulation can eventually lower fuel costs, market forces and global production levels play a much larger role in the short term. The administration also reversed course on international climate commitments by exiting the Paris Accord.
Economic Moves and Tariff Threats
While no new tariffs were announced on Day 1, Trump made it clear that they are on the table. He threatened to impose heavy taxes on goods from Mexico and Canada if they do not increase cooperation on curbing illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Trump’s team suggested a potential 25% tariff could be implemented as early as February.
Economists are divided on the potential impact. Supporters believe tariffs protect American jobs and industries, but opponents argue they lead to higher prices for consumers and could worsen inflation. Trump also took steps to change federal operations with a hiring freeze for most government jobs outside of the military.
| Policy Area | Action Taken on Day 1 | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration | Shut down CBP One app, declared border emergency | Disrupts legal migrant entry, prompts legal challenges |
| Energy | Rolled back EV mandate, declared energy emergency | Slows renewable energy transition, minor short-term price impact |
| Federal Work | Froze hiring, mandated return-to-office | Changes federal operations, may face employee resistance |
Pardons, Tech Policy, and a Return to the Office
Trump’s first day also included several other notable actions. He signed orders mandating that federal employees return to in-person work, largely ending the remote work policies established in recent years. This move is expected to face pushback from federal employee unions.
Later in the evening, he issued a series of controversial pardons and commutations. Some pardons were granted to individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The decision immediately drew criticism from political opponents.
In the tech world, Trump delayed a federal ban on TikTok, a popular social media app. He also signaled a friendly stance toward the cryptocurrency industry, suggesting his administration may introduce new, more supportive regulations in the future.
