Trump's Second Term Begins with a Flurry of Executive Actions

2025-01-25 18:00:50.057

President Donald Trump's second term commenced with a series of rapid-fire executive actions and policy shifts. Key appointments included Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary, narrowly confirmed despite facing various allegations, and Kristi Noem as Homeland Security Secretary. Trump's administration initiated an immigration crackdown, including increased deportations and border troop deployments. He also oversaw the dismissal of numerous inspectors general across federal agencies, sparking bipartisan criticism for bypassing congressional notification requirements. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and California wildfires, Trump's response involved threats to eliminate FEMA and conditional federal aid based on state policy compliance. The release of four Israeli hostages was celebrated as part of a Gaza ceasefire deal. Further, Trump rejoined the Geneva Consensus Declaration, opposing abortion rights, and reinstated the Mexico City Policy and Hyde Amendment, restricting abortion funding. The administration abruptly halted refugee services in the US, and Guatemala prepared for increased deportations. Senate confirmation votes were scheduled for Scott Bessent (Treasury Secretary) and Sean Duffy (Transportation Secretary).