In the first few days of his second term, President Donald Trump enacted a series of executive orders that aimed to reshape U.S. policies. These directives sought to reverse previous administrations’ initiatives and advance his agenda. Many executive orders focused on deploying troops to the southern border, environmental policies, social policies and pardons.
Upon his return to the Oval Office on Jan. 20, 2025, President Trump initiated a series of executive orders that shifted the federal landscape. One of these involved changes to immigration, which began with the deployment of National Guard troops to the southern border and the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” program, signaling a stringent approach to immigration. The policy allowed the government to release migrants with asylum claims to Mexico to await their asylum hearings in the United States.
When asked about President Trump’s executive orders, many people on campus disagreed with his methods.
Rachel Rogstad, freshman theatre and music double major, discussed Trump’s new executive orders.
“I think there will be a lot of executive orders that will stay throughout his term, but many will be struck down,” Rogstad said.
Trump ordered all federal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) employees to be placed on paid leave. He also decided to withdraw the U.S. from the World Health Organization, signaling a shift toward prioritizing fossil fuel extraction.
During his pre-inauguration rally, Trump stated, “We begin a brand-new day of American strength and prosperity, dignity and pride.”
Thousands of presidential executive orders have been issued in U.S. history. Among President Trump’s executive actions were efforts to rename the Gulf of Mexico and revert Mount Denali to its previous name.
Trump’s latest executive orders reflected his distinct approach to governance. While opinions on their impact varied, they undoubtedly sparked significant discussion and debate.
