politics
Trump's Second Week in Office: A Whirlwind of Executive Actions
2/2/2025•3 min read
Trump's Second Week in Office: A Whirlwind of Executive Actions
President Donald Trump's second week in office was marked by a whirlwind of executive actions and policy shifts, reflecting his administration's aggressive agenda. Below are the key developments:
Executive Actions and Policy Moves
- Immigration Crackdown: Trump's administration implemented measures that led to a significant drop in migrant encounters at the southern border, with numbers falling by 63% compared to the end of Joe Biden's presidency. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem participated in immigration raids targeting violent offenders in New York City.
- Federal Workforce Overhaul: Federal employees were offered severance packages to resign, which is part of Trump's effort to reduce the federal workforce. Those who chose to remain would face stricter workplace requirements, including a mandated return to in-office work.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: The administration shuttered DEI initiatives across federal agencies and ordered reviews of private-sector DEI programs. Trump controversially linked a tragic plane crash near Washington to DEI policies, sparking public outrage.
- Trade Tariffs: Trump imposed steep tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing concerns over illegal trafficking and immigration. This move triggered retaliatory tariffs from Canada and Mexico, escalating trade tensions.
Cabinet Confirmations and Legislative Push
- Several key Cabinet members were confirmed, including Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior and Lee Zeldin as EPA Administrator. However, nominees like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (HHS Secretary) and Tulsi Gabbard (Director of National Intelligence) faced tough Senate hearings.
- As of now, Trump has signed over 200 executive actions since taking office, aligning closely with the Heritage Foundation’s "Project 2025," which emphasizes energy dominance, immigration enforcement, and dismantling Biden-era policies.
Public Backlash and Legal Challenges
- A controversial freeze on federal grants was quickly reversed after lawsuits and public outcry. Critics claimed this move jeopardized essential services like housing and veteran support.
- Legal battles have emerged over some of Trump's early initiatives, including his immigration policies and efforts to roll back birthright citizenship.
International Relations
- Trump announced that Venezuela had agreed to accept deportees from the U.S., signaling a shift in immigration diplomacy. Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet Trump this week for bilateral discussions.
Public Reaction
Trump's actions have polarized public opinion. His supporters applaud his decisive approach to fulfilling campaign promises, while critics warn of the long-term consequences of his policies on governance, trade, and social equity.
In summary, President Trump's second week in office showcased his administration's rapid pace in implementing its agenda but also highlighted significant challenges from legal hurdles, public backlash, and international pushback.