In the second week of Donald Trump’s presidency, significant changes were rapidly introduced, showcasing his commitment to enforcing his policies. The administration implemented tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, aimed at addressing various economic concerns, while border crossings saw a notable decline. Reports indicated a drastic 63% drop in migrant encounters at the southern border, as the presidency moved swiftly to tighten immigration control.
Trump’s speedy action also included the signing of over 200 executive orders on his first day in office, demonstrating his determination to fulfill his agenda without delay. Notably, amidst this change, the administrative efforts to terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across federal agencies were set in motion, reflecting a pivot towards prioritizing more traditional organizational structures.
Homeland Security was in the spotlight as Secretary Kristi Noem took to the streets of New York to lead an immigration enforcement operation targeting serious criminal offenders, including murderers and kidnappers. Additionally, the Trump administration reported that it had successfully removed over 7,300 illegal immigrants, returning them to various countries, including Mexico and Brazil.
On the legislative front, Trump signed the Laken Riley Act, designed to enhance immigration enforcement against those charged with theft-related crimes or assault against law enforcement. This action honors Laken Riley, a nursing student tragically killed by an illegal immigrant, emphasizing the administration’s focus on public safety and strong immigration laws. Moreover, the law permits states to hold the Department of Homeland Security accountable for harm caused by illegal immigration.
Furthermore, the administration’s actions extended to the federal workforce, offering federal employees the option to either return to the office or resign with full benefits. This “Fork in the Road” approach signals a new direction in government operations, reflecting Trump’s emphasis on getting government workers back to in-person duties.
Tragically, the week’s swift developments were overshadowed by a fatal incident involving a plane collision near Washington, D.C., where all individuals on board were presumed dead. President Trump swiftly responded by ordering a review of aviation safety measures, underscoring his administration’s focus on security and efficiency within federal agencies.
As the week concluded, Trump moved forward with the introduction of tariffs targeting Mexico, Canada, and China, aimed at addressing issues such as drug trafficking and economic imbalances. By imposing a 25% tariff on the first two countries and a 10% tariff on China, the White House highlighted these actions as fulfilling campaign promises, reinforcing a tough stance on border security and trade.
Overall, Trump’s administration is showing an assertive approach to governance, pushing for significant reforms across various sectors in a bid to enhance national security and promote a more traditional operational framework within the federal government.
