Expected Executive Orders from Trump

President-Elect Trump Set to Implement Swift Executive Actions on Key Policy Areas

On Monday afternoon, President-elect Donald J. Trump is poised to initiate a series of executive orders that will mark a significant shift in U.S. policy, particularly in immigration, diversity initiatives, and environmental regulations. Those close to Trump have indicated that the incoming president is prepared to take a bold approach to governance that starkly contrasts with the policies of his predecessor, President Joe Biden.

Reports suggest that Mr. Trump intends to sign what could amount to dozens of executive orders—potentially close to 100—within hours of taking office. This action-packed start reflects his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and directly addressing what he perceives to be a "deep state" effort to hinder his endeavors. While some of these orders may face legal challenges and others could be largely symbolic, the overall impact is expected to signal a dramatic pivot in federal policy.

Among the significant changes, Trump plans to introduce measures aimed at immigration reform. His proposed policies include closing the border to asylum-seeking migrants, a move that raises constitutional questions regarding birthright citizenship guaranteed by the 14th Amendment. Additionally, the president-elect has signaled an intention to involve the U.S. military in border security operations—an action likely to face immediate legal scrutiny due to existing restrictions on military deployment within the U.S.

Trump’s administration is also expected to declare migrant crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border a national emergency, thereby unlocking federal funds for border wall construction without requiring approval from Congress. Further, in a measure that could have international implications, he plans to designate drug cartels as “global terrorists,” strengthening his administration’s crackdown on illegal drug trafficking.

Beyond immigration, Trump’s executive actions will target the federal workforce by mandating a return to in-person work at many agencies for 4-5 days a week, effectively ending remote work policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move aligns with his broader agenda to return to traditional workplace norms.

In addressing social issues, Trump’s administration aims to establish biological definitions of sex for federal workers and amend Title IX guidelines affecting educational institutions. These measures would revoke protections currently extended to transgender individuals, including those in federal prisons and migrants in U.S. custody.

Trade and economic policy will also undergo rigorous scrutiny under the new administration. Trump has directed federal agencies to initiate investigations into various trade practices, including trade deficits and unfair currency practices, particularly focusing on compliance with previous trade agreements such as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Plans are underway to explore the feasibility of creating an “External Revenue Service” to improve tariff and duty collection.

Energy policy will be another focal point, with Trump expected to declare a national energy emergency that permits expedited permitting processes for pipeline and power plant projects. His administration will also seek to roll back existing regulations that restrict domestic energy production and relax standards for tailpipe pollution and fuel economy. Additionally, the administration is likely to open up the Alaska wilderness for expanded oil and gas drilling, which could draw criticism from environmental groups.

In a notable departure from prior policies, Trump plans to eliminate numerous environmental justice programs aimed at preventing pollution in poorer communities, signalling a priority shift towards increased energy production regardless of environmental considerations.

As part of his initial executive actions, Trump has hinted at delaying a ban on TikTok, providing the app’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, with additional time to comply with U.S. regulations regarding data security. However, details surrounding this potential intervention remain unclear as Trump’s officials have not elaborated on specific actions concerning the app.

The impending executive order signing on Monday is set to be a watershed moment not only for Trump’s presidency but also for American governance as a whole. With these aggressive steps, Trump aims to reverse much of the Biden administration’s impact on climate policies, immigration, and social issues. Observers and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these measures unfold and the legal challenges that may arise in response to this ambitious agenda.

The articles and opinions of political analysts suggest that the ramifications of these policies could resonate throughout Trump’s entire term, shaping the political landscape in profound ways.