Former President Donald Trump has hit the ground running in his second term as the 47th President of the United States. Just 24 hours after his inauguration, he has signed multiple executive orders, making significant changes across the board. Here's what you need to know about his first day back in the White House.
Restoring the Death Penalty
One of Trump’s first moves was to reinstate federal executions, reversing a moratorium in place since 2021. In his order, Trump called capital punishment "an essential tool for deterring and punishing those who commit the most heinous crimes."
During his first term, Trump’s administration carried out 13 federal executions—the most in modern history. Now, he’s making sure states have the resources they need for lethal injections, directing the Attorney General to secure the necessary supplies.
Trump criticized the previous administration for commuting the sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row, describing them as "vile and sadistic criminals."
Gender Policy Redefined
In another controversial move, Trump signed an order recognizing only two genders: male and female. The order also ends government programs promoting diversity and inclusivity, which Trump described as "wasteful."
The president stated that agencies must enforce laws based on biological sex, claiming this approach will "protect against gender ideology extremism."
Focusing on Free Speech
Trump has vowed to protect free speech, accusing the previous administration of censorship. His executive order promises that no government official will "unconstitutionally abridge the free speech of any American citizen."
This move comes as Trump aims to end what he calls "censorship of protected speech" across social platforms and within government agencies.
Leaving the World Health Organization
The president also announced the United States will leave the World Health Organization (WHO), claiming it mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic. He accused the organization of "ripping off" the United States and vowed to stop the country from being taken advantage of.
Other Notable Changes
Trump’s first day was packed with bold moves across several areas:
TikTok Ban Pause: Trump has temporarily paused the U.S. ban on TikTok to explore a more "appropriate course forward."
Immigration Crackdown: Declaring illegal immigration a national emergency, Trump reversed Biden-era policies and outlined plans to send U.S. troops to assist border agents.
Renaming the Gulf of Mexico: Trump ordered the Gulf of Mexico to be renamed the "Gulf of America." While symbolic, the move won’t change how it’s referred to globally.
Energy Independence: Trump signed an order to unleash American energy production, reversing restrictions on drilling in Alaska and other areas. He called this a step toward making the U.S. "a rich nation again."
Cost of Living Relief: A new order aims to lower housing prices, create jobs, and reduce food and fuel costs for Americans.
Cracking Down on Drug Cartels: Drug cartels are now classified as terrorist organizations, with Trump describing them as a "national-security threat."
Federal Workforce Changes: Federal employees have been reclassified as political hires, making them easier to fire. Trump also announced a federal hiring freeze.
What’s Next?
President Trump’s swift actions signal a busy and divisive term ahead. Whether you agree with his policies or not, it’s clear that Trump is determined to leave his mark on the country—again.
Stay tuned as more developments unfold in the coming days.
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