Donald Trump hit the ground running on his first day as the 47th president of the United States. After overcoming impeachments, criminal indictments, and assassination attempts, Trump was sworn in for his second term, marking a historic beginning. The inauguration ceremony, moved indoors due to severe cold and wind, set the stage for an eventful day in Washington, D.C.
Historic Inauguration Day: Trump’s First Steps as President
In a rare political gesture, former President Joe Biden and President Trump traveled to the Capitol together, riding in the same vehicle. This symbolic moment was in line with tradition and marked a peaceful transfer of power. The event saw dignitaries such as Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. Business leaders like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos also attended.
After taking the oath of office, President Trump delivered his inaugural speech, setting the tone for what he called the “golden age for America.” He then participated in the inaugural parade, waving to enthusiastic supporters lining the streets.
Key Executive Orders and Policy Changes on Day One
Trump’s first day was filled with executive orders that promise sweeping changes. Below is a breakdown of the key actions taken:
1. Pardons for Capitol Rioters
True to his campaign promise, Trump issued pardons for about 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot, including members of the far-right groups Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. This move reversed the legal consequences for those convicted or charged during the attack on Congress in 2021.
2. Economic Orders to Address Inflation
Trump signed an executive memorandum aimed at tackling inflation. The memorandum directs federal agencies to undo Biden’s actions and ease regulations on oil and natural gas production, with a focus on lowering consumer prices. Additionally, Trump announced a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico starting February 1, 2025.
3. TikTok and National Security
In a significant decision, Trump temporarily paused the U.S. Congress’s TikTok ban for 75 days. During this period, the administration will negotiate a deal to allow a U.S.-based company to purchase the platform, addressing national security concerns while ensuring TikTok remains accessible to American users.
4. America First Foreign Policy: U.S. Withdraws from WHO
Trump reinforced his “America First” foreign policy by withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), continuing a policy from his first term. He also ordered a review of foreign aid spending and made symbolic moves, such as renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and restoring Mount McKinley as the name of the highest mountain in North America.
5. Immigration and National Security Reforms
Trump reversed several immigration policies from the Biden administration. He narrowed the scope of deportation priorities, declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, and sent troops to assist immigration officers. Trump also sought to end birthright citizenship and temporarily suspended the Refugee Admission Program for a review of its security implications.
6. Climate Policy and Energy Changes
On climate and energy policy, Trump formally withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, a move he made during his first term. He declared an energy emergency and reaffirmed his commitment to expanding fossil fuel production, including reversing Biden’s electric vehicle mandates.
7. Federal Government Reforms and Efficiency
Trump signed an executive order freezing federal government hiring, excluding the military, and formed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. The new department will streamline government operations and cut wasteful spending.
8. Shifting Social Policies: Gender and Diversity
In line with his campaign promises, Trump signed orders to roll back protections for transgender individuals and eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the federal government. His orders define sex based on biological factors and restrict federal funding for transgender services.
