WASHINGTON —
Back in the White House as the 47th president, Donald J. Trump has launched one of the most aggressive and consequential starts to a presidential term in modern American history. With his return, Trump is not just picking up where he left off — he’s doubling down on the signature policies that defined his first presidency, now with greater urgency and fewer restraints.
In just 100 days, Trump has issued a record-shattering number of executive orders, surpassing Franklin D. Roosevelt’s previous benchmark of 99. His rapid actions have already begun reshaping Washington, signaling to both allies and adversaries that the America First agenda is back — and bolder than ever.
Trump’s second-term focus mirrors his original vision but with intensified resolve. Having been delayed by the Russia investigation, disrupted by nationwide unrest, and sidetracked by the COVID-19 pandemic during his first term, Trump has returned with a sharpened agenda built around three pillars: border security, trade reform, and energy independence.
A New Era at the Border
One of President Trump’s first moves was an immediate crackdown on illegal immigration. On Day One, he signed ten executive orders aimed at restoring control over the southern border, declaring a national emergency and deploying military forces to reinforce border security.
Key actions included:
Reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy for asylum seekers.
Ending “catch-and-release” and accelerating deportations.
Restarting construction of the southern border wall, with expanded funding.
Designating criminal cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
Eliminating birthright citizenship through executive order — a move expected to face legal scrutiny but embraced by his base.
Striking controversial agreements, such as paying El Salvador to detain MS-13 and other gang-affiliated illegal immigrants outside U.S. borders.
These efforts, combined with a renewed focus on stopping fentanyl trafficking, have led to a significant decline in border crossings, earning widespread approval from supporters who view the measures as a restoration of national sovereignty.
Redefining Trade and Foreign Policy
On the international front, Trump has adopted a hardline trade strategy more sweeping than expected. His administration implemented broad tariffs not just against China, but all global trading partners, citing unfair trade practices and the need to rebuild American manufacturing.
This bold move has unsettled global markets and provoked diplomatic tension — but Trump remains defiant, arguing that America can no longer be taken advantage of on the world stage.
Meanwhile, he’s reignited concerns about Chinese espionage, proposing stricter controls on Chinese investments and technology partnerships in the U.S.
Energy Dominance and Economic Revival
Domestically, Trump has prioritized unleashing U.S. energy production, fast-tracking permits for oil and gas projects, rolling back environmental regulations, and revoking many of the climate-oriented executive orders signed by President Biden.
The result: a sharp uptick in domestic drilling and a rebound in U.S. energy exports — all central to Trump’s push for energy independence and lower fuel prices.
Executive Action: Culture and Identity
Among the most controversial of Trump’s early executive orders is one declaring that “there are only two sexes, male and female, as created by God.” The order mandates federal agencies to adopt biological definitions of sex in law, data collection, and policy enforcement, reversing the broader gender identity guidelines introduced under the previous administration.
Supporters argue the move restores traditional values and legal clarity. Critics denounce it as discriminatory, warning it could roll back civil rights protections for transgender Americans and ignite legal battles in federal courts.
A Divided Nation Watches Closely
Supporters of the president hail his first 100 days as a restoration of American strength, values, and independence. They see his aggressive pace as a necessary correction after what they view as years of national decline.
Opponents, however, warn that Trump’s unilateral actions reflect executive overreach and political chaos, with some legal experts predicting constitutional clashes ahead.
Regardless of political leanings, few can deny that Trump’s second term is already among the most eventful in American history — and he's just getting started.
