Thursday, February 20, 2025

Trump’s Executive Orders: Day 1 Targets EVs, Inflation, Immigration

Donald Trump returned to the White House on Inauguration Day, becoming the second U.S. president in history to serve nonconsecutive terms. His first actions? A flurry of executive orders aimed at illegal immigration, energy policy, and the economy, signaling a dramatic policy shift and drawing widespread attention.

Immigration Orders with Immediate Impact

Trump wasted no time addressing immigration, fulfilling promises from his campaign trail. Among the most significant moves:

  • CBP One Shutdown: The government app, which facilitated legal migrant entry and work eligibility, was immediately deactivated. Appointments for users were canceled, leaving thousands in limbo.
  • National Border Emergency: Declaring the southern border a national emergency, Trump ordered military deployment to curb illegal crossings.
  • Policy Reinstatements: The controversial “Remain in Mexico” policy returned, requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for U.S. hearings. Additionally, “catch-and-release” practices were abolished.

Some actions, such as halting birthright citizenship, are likely to face significant legal hurdles. Critics argue these policies could disrupt industries reliant on undocumented workers, like agriculture and hospitality, potentially causing economic ripple effects.

Donald Trump inauguration ceremony 2025

Energy Emergency and EV Rollback

In another pivotal move, Trump declared a national energy emergency, citing rising prices as a key driver of inflation. He emphasized immediate changes, including revoking the electric vehicle (EV) mandate, which he argued was harming the auto industry.

“We’re ending the Green New Deal today,” Trump proclaimed, claiming the policy was forcing automakers into untenable production requirements.

Analysts were quick to temper expectations, noting that energy prices and production often move independently of presidential orders. Experts, such as Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy, stated that while deregulation could lower fossil fuel prices, the impact wouldn’t be immediate. Still, the rollback of Biden-era EV policies could slow progress toward renewable energy goals.

Tariffs and Trade: Threats Loom Large

Though Trump stopped short of announcing new tariffs on Day 1, he hinted at hefty levies on Mexico and Canada if those nations fail to cooperate on immigration and drug trafficking issues. Trump’s team floated a potential 25% tariff by February, a move that economists warn could stoke inflation further.

Supporters argue tariffs protect American industries and reduce reliance on foreign goods. Detractors counter that such measures burden consumers with higher prices. During Trump’s first term, his trade wars rattled markets, but he’s doubling down on protectionist policies.

Biden Rollbacks and New Policies

In an unprecedented setting, Trump signed multiple executive orders during an inaugural parade held at Capital One Arena. These included:

  • Federal Freeze: Halting new regulations and hiring for most federal jobs outside the military.
  • Paris Accord Exit: Reversing Biden’s re-entry into the climate pact.
  • Back-to-Office Push: Mandating federal employees return to office spaces, with limited exceptions.

Later in the evening, Trump signed more orders in the Oval Office, including pardons for some individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Commutations for nonviolent offenders were issued alongside pardons, a decision sparking immediate controversy.

Cryptocurrency and TikTok

Trump’s actions weren’t confined to traditional policy areas. He signed an order delaying a federal ban on TikTok, honoring a promise to its U.S. user base. While controversial, the move reflects Trump’s willingness to engage with cultural touchpoints. He also took preliminary steps to support the cryptocurrency industry, signaling potential regulatory changes ahead.

Table: Key Day 1 Executive Actions

Policy Area Action Expected Impact
Immigration CBP One shutdown, border emergency Disrupts migrant processes, legal battles likely
Energy EV mandate rollback, energy emergency Long-term market shifts, no immediate price impact
Trade Potential Mexico/Canada tariffs Inflation risk, market uncertainty
Climate Policy Paris Accord exit Reduces U.S. climate commitments
Federal Operations Hiring freeze, back-to-office mandate Operational shifts, employee pushback

With Day 1 now complete, Trump’s bold moves set the stage for his second presidency. Whether these policies deliver the promised results or trigger unintended consequences remains to be seen.

Joshua Garcia
Joshua Garcia
Joshua is a certified personal trainer with a degree in Kinesiology and a fitness blogger with a passion for helping others achieve their health and fitness goals. He also writes about a wide range of topics, including health and wellness, personal development, mindfulness, and sustainable living.

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