As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office for his second term, many are wondering what to expect from his administration, particularly when it comes to executive orders. These directives, signed by the president, allow him to make policy outside of the usual congressional process, and have been used by previous presidents to push through important changes.
Executive orders have been a powerful tool for presidents, especially during times of partisan gridlock in Congress. They can be used to enforce laws governing the executive branch, and can be implemented quickly, without the need for congressional approval. However, they also have limits, and can be revoked by the next president, challenged in court, or checked by Congress.
During his first term, Trump signed 221 executive orders, ranging from a travel ban on several majority-Muslim countries to efforts to reduce crime. This time around, he has a list of 100 executive orders planned for the first few days of his administration, according to Axios. This is a significant number, and it’s essential to consider what these orders will actually accomplish and how they will affect real people.
One of the areas where Trump’s executive orders may have a significant impact is on immigration. He has promised mass deportations on “day 1” of his second term, and may use a national emergency declaration or Title 42 public health restrictions to achieve this goal. However, the biggest obstacle to mass removals is logistical, and it will be interesting to see how the administration navigates the challenges of resources and personnel.
Another area of concern is the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly trans children. Trump’s campaign website has promised to instruct every federal agency to cease all programs that promote the concept of sex and gender transition at any age. This is a worrying development, as it could have a significant impact on the lives of trans individuals, who already face significant barriers and discrimination.
It’s also worth noting that executive orders can be challenged in court, and that Congress can act to check the president’s executive action. During Biden’s first 100 days in office, he rolled back more than 60 of Trump’s executive orders, including those related to climate policies and the Paris climate agreement.
As we move forward, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged, and to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions. We must also continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly those who are most vulnerable to the effects of executive orders. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.