20 Of Trump's Most Controversial Actions This Week
Everything you missed this week.
It’s been less than a week since President Donald Trump returned to the Oval Office, and his administration has already unleashed a whirlwind of executive orders and policy changes. These decisions have reignited intense debates, with many praising his boldness while others warn of dangerous consequences for the country.
Below are 20 of the most controversial actions taken in Trump’s first four days back in office.
1. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and WHO
Trump wasted no time signing executive orders to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization. This move has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists and public health advocates, who argue it undermines global cooperation on critical issues.
2. Rescinding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs
Federal DEI programs were dismantled via executive order, with all DEI staff placed on leave and related offices set to close within 60 days. Civil rights groups have decried this as a step backward for workplace equality and inclusion.
3. Restricting LGBTQ+ Rights
Trump signed an executive order defining gender strictly as male or female at birth. This move revokes protections for transgender individuals and lays the groundwork for banning transgender people from serving in the military.
4. Attempt to End Birthright Citizenship
An executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants or temporary visa holders has already been blocked by a federal judge, setting the stage for a fierce legal battle.
5. Mass Deportations and Border Militarization
The administration initiated large-scale deportation flights, arresting hundreds of migrants, while deploying active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. Critics have warned of human rights violations and the risks of militarizing border policy.
6. Pardons for Far-Right Individuals
Trump issued controversial pardons for members of far-right groups, including the founder of the Oath Keepers, sparking bipartisan criticism. Some of the pardons lifted bans preventing these individuals from entering the U.S. Capitol.
7. Rollback of Environmental Protections
Declaring a national energy emergency, Trump reversed regulations to promote fracking and other fossil fuel production. Environmentalists warn this will exacerbate climate change and harm public health.
8. Curtailment of Civil Rights Protections
The Department of Justice halted new civil rights cases, including those involving reproductive health facilities. This decision has raised concerns about the future enforcement of civil rights laws.
9. Reduction of U.S. Military Presence in Europe
Trump ordered an immediate withdrawal of approximately 20% of U.S. troops stationed in Europe, alarming NATO allies and raising questions about America’s commitment to European security.
10. Dismissal of Federal Employees
Hundreds of federal employees, including top officials in agencies like the Justice Department and the National Security Council, have been removed or sidelined, creating widespread uncertainty within the federal workforce.
11. Regulatory Freeze
Trump issued a memorandum pausing and reviewing recent regulatory activity. This freeze could stall progress in sectors like healthcare, infrastructure, and energy.
12. Halting Foreign Aid
Nearly all new foreign aid funding was frozen, with exceptions made only for Israel and humanitarian food crises. Critics warn this move could destabilize ongoing global projects and diminish America’s influence abroad.
13. Revocation of Security Details
Trump withdrew security details for former officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, John Bolton, and Mike Pompeo. This decision has been widely criticized as politically motivated and potentially endangering these individuals.
14. National Emergency Declaration at Southern Border
Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, facilitating the deployment of U.S. troops and raising concerns about the militarization of immigration enforcement.
15. Revoking Protections for Sensitive Locations
The administration removed protections that limited immigration enforcement actions in places like churches and schools, potentially opening the door to raids in these sensitive areas.
16. Pardons for January 6 Rioters
In a controversial move, Trump issued a blanket pardon for over 1,500 individuals convicted in connection to the January 6 Capitol riot. This has been widely criticized as undermining accountability for the attack on democracy.
17. Executive Order on Gender Definitions
A federal policy was established recognizing only two genders, male and female. This policy impacts various areas, including passports and single-sex spaces, while rolling back protections for transgender individuals.
18. ICE Raids at Schools
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted to enter Hamlin Elementary School in Chicago, a predominantly Latino K-8 school, sparking outrage. The school denied entry to protect its students, raising alarms about the targeting of sensitive locations. (Note that ICE is now denying it was them. More to come.)
19. Proposed Dismantling of FEMA
Trump proposed forming a task force to examine and potentially dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), criticizing the agency as inefficient and costly. Emergency management experts warn this could leave the nation vulnerable to disasters.
20. Pardon of Ross Ulbricht
Trump granted a full pardon to Ross Ulbricht, founder of the Silk Road darknet marketplace. While libertarians have praised the decision, critics argue it undermines justice and could set a dangerous precedent for internet regulation.
What Lies Ahead?
In just four days, President Trump has set a dramatic tone for his second term. Supporters celebrate these actions as a decisive return to “America First” priorities, but critics warn of significant long-term consequences, both domestically and internationally. As these policies unfold, the nation braces for the profound impact they may have on its future.