A Storm of Controversy, Action, and Unprecedented Decisions
Since the inauguration on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump has signed several executive orders in these 10 days. And most of them have sparked significant public debate. These actions reflect his administration’s priorities and have elicited varied reactions from different sectors of society. It is notable that most of the recent orders follow the Donald Trump campaign and intend to keep up with the promises made prior to elections.
Immigration Policies
One of the most controversial measures is the directive to detain up to 30,000 undocumented immigrants at Guantánamo Bay. This decision has faced criticism from human rights organizations, Democrats, and the Cuban government . Additionally, the administration has revoked deportation protections for 600,000 Venezuelans, increasing concerns about their potential removal.
Education Reforms
On January 29, 2025, President Trump signed three executive orders aimed at reforming education . These orders target the elimination of “indoctrination” in K-12 schools, address antisemitism on college campuses, and promote school choice . The measures have received mixed reactions: congressional Republicans support them, while teacher unions and free speech advocates oppose them .
Environmental Policy
In a move to prioritize economic growth over environmental commitments, President Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the Paris Agreement . This action has been met with strong opposition from environmental groups, who view it as a setback for global climate efforts .
Health Policy
Another significant executive order directs the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) . This decision has been criticized by health organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, who warn of life-threatening consequences for global health coordination .
Artificial Intelligence
President Trump signed an executive order titled “Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence.” The order aims to enhance U.S. leadership in AI by revoking certain policies and establishing a plan to promote AI development free from ideological bias or social agendas .
Citizenship Policy
The executive order “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship” seeks to end birthright citizenship for children of unauthorized immigrants and those on temporary visas . This move has faced legal challenges, with a federal judge temporarily blocking the order, citing its unconstitutionality.
Public Reaction
Public response to these executive orders has been mixed . A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted from January 24-26, 2025, indicates that Americans have mixed reactions to President Trump’s early executive orders . His approval rating stands at 45%, with 46% disapproving of his performance. Key issues contributing to discontent include attempts to end birthright citizenship and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America . Most Americans, including a majority of Republicans and Democrats, oppose these measures. Internationally, Trump’s policies have sparked protests and criticism. Demonstrations have occurred in countries like Mexico, the UK, Belgium, and Panama, with global anti-Trump protests gaining momentum .
Final Understanding
President Trump’s executive orders reflect his administration’s priorities, including stricter immigration policies, education reforms, environmental deregulation, and changes in health and citizenship policies. These actions have elicited a range of reactions, from support among certain domestic groups to widespread criticism both within the United States and internationally.
However, the early 10 days overall seem to have been eventful for the administration. Right from Colombia flight deportation event to the crash of Helicopter Black Hawk and Passenger airline American Eagle, the American politics has had its plate full.
