WASHINGTON:

In a daring move aimed at cementing his influence over the nation, former President Donald Trump announced on January 20 his intention to issue a series of executive orders and directives, potentially exceeding 200 in number. This initiative, characterized internally as a "shock-and-awe" strategy, spans critical areas including immigration, energy policy, and more.

IMMIGRATION REFORMS

In his inaugural address after securing a second term, Trump declared a national emergency concerning illegal immigration at the US-Mexico border. He has pledged to deploy troops to the border while escalating the deportation of individuals convicted of crimes. Notably, Trump plans to invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, targeting foreign gang members residing in the U.S.—a legally contentious move reminiscent of past wartime actions against non-citizens. His administration aims to end asylum for those who enter the U.S. illegally, halt refugee resettlement programs, and maintain a firm commitment to constructing a wall along the border.

Additionally, Trump has voiced intentions to challenge the longstanding principle of "birthright citizenship," which grants citizenship to children born in the U.S. to undocumented parents. This proposal, rooted in the U.S. Constitution, could ignite significant legal battles.

ENERGY INITIATIVES

In a bid to spearhead energy independence, Trump plans to declare a national energy emergency, focusing on filling strategic oil reserves and facilitating U.S. energy exports globally. His mantra of “drill, baby, drill” will be accompanied by an executive order targeting Alaska’s energy potential—critical for national security and as a source for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.

In a significant environmental policy shift, Trump aims to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement and revocation of initiatives promoting electric vehicles (EVs). His team suggests cutting support for EV infrastructure and implementing tariffs on battery materials to boost domestic production, while scrutinizing trade practices with major players like China, Canada, and Mexico.

DIVERSITY AND TRANSGENDER RIGHTS

Trump’s forthcoming executive orders are expected to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the federal government, declaring the recognition of only two genders, male and female. He aims to abolish Biden-era policies that assist individuals seeking gender-affirming medical care, including surgeries and hormone therapies. Furthermore, Trump plans to take immediate action to prohibit transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports, a move that has already stirred significant backlash.

PARDONING JANUARY 6 DEFENDANTS

Sources indicate that Trump is preparing an extensive list of pardons for individuals charged in relation to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Specifically, his plans may include pardoning those who did not engage in violent acts during the insurrection, effectively erasing the legal repercussions of their actions.

FEDERAL BUREAUCRACY REFORMS

In a sweeping attempt to reshape the federal workforce, Trump is expected to freeze hiring in non-essential areas and mandate that federal employees return to in-office work. This policy aims to dismantle the remote work culture that proliferated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Trump threatening dismissal for those who refuse to comply. These changes are seen as a tactic to significantly reduce the size of the federal bureaucracy.

As we await the release of these executive orders, the ramifications of Trump's ambitious agenda promise to reshape the landscape of U.S. policy and governance. Stay tuned for what comes next!