Trump's First Executive Orders: A Legacy in the Making

The presidential inauguration of Donald Trump on January 20, 2017, marked the beginning of a new era in American politics. As the 45th President of the United States, Trump vowed to shake up the status quo and implement a range of policies that would have a lasting impact on the country. One of the key ways he planned to achieve this was through the issuance of executive orders. In this article, we'll delve into Trump's first executive orders, examining their impact on various sectors of American society and what they say about his legacy.

Trump's first executive orders were issued in the aftermath of his inauguration, setting the tone for his presidency. These orders were designed to repeal and replace key aspects of the Obama administration's policies, particularly in the areas of immigration, healthcare, and energy. By taking these actions, Trump aimed to demonstrate his commitment to his campaign promises and establish a new direction for the country.

Executive Order 13771: Reducing Regulatory Burden

On January 28, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order 13771, titled "Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs." This order aimed to reduce the number of federal regulations and the overall burden on businesses. The order also required federal agencies to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for each new regulation and eliminate unnecessary or duplicative rules.

Key Provisions of the Order

• Requires federal agencies to reduce their regulatory burden by one percentage point annually
• Establishes a federal regulatory reform task force to oversee the process
• Exempts small businesses from the cost-benefit analysis requirement

Impact of the Order

Executive Order 13771 was seen as a significant step towards reducing the regulatory burden on businesses. By eliminating unnecessary rules and regulations, Trump hoped to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. However, critics argued that the order would also lead to reduced consumer protections and environmental safeguards.

Executive Order 13777: Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

On January 30, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order 13777, titled "Enforcing Federal Law with Respect to Transnational Criminal Organizations and Restricting the U.S. Financial System's Interactions with Certain Foreign Actors." This order aimed to crack down on transnational organized crime and impose stricter controls on foreign governments' access to the US financial system.

Key Provisions of the Order

• Requires federal agencies to identify and disrupt transnational organized crime networks
• Establishes a task force to investigate and prosecute financial crimes
• Imposes stricter controls on foreign governments' access to the US financial system

Impact of the Order

Executive Order 13777 was seen as a significant step towards enhancing national security and combating transnational crime. By imposing stricter controls on foreign governments' access to the US financial system, Trump aimed to reduce the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing. However, critics argued that the order would also lead to reduced cooperation with foreign governments and increased tensions with international partners.

Executive Order 13789: Promoting Steel and Aluminum Imports

On February 16, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order 13789, titled "Promoting Steel and Aluminum Industries of the United States." This order aimed to protect the US steel and aluminum industries by imposing tariffs on imports from certain countries.

Key Provisions of the Order

• Imposes tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from China, Mexico, and Canada
• Establishes a committee to review and revise the tariffs as needed
• Requires federal agencies to consider the impact of the tariffs on national security and economic interests

Impact of the Order

Executive Order 13789 was seen as a significant step towards protecting the US steel and aluminum industries. By imposing tariffs on imports from certain countries, Trump aimed to reduce the trade deficit and create jobs. However, critics argued that the order would also lead to increased tensions with international partners and reduced trade opportunities.

Executive Order 13798: Promoting Energy Independence

On February 9, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order 13798, titled "Promoting Energy Independence." This order aimed to promote the development and use of domestic energy resources, particularly oil and gas.

Key Provisions of the Order

• Directs federal agencies to identify and eliminate unnecessary regulations on the oil and gas industry
• Establishes a task force to promote the development of domestic energy resources
• Requires federal agencies to consider the impact of their regulations on energy production and prices

Impact of the Order

Executive Order 13798 was seen as a significant step towards promoting energy independence. By eliminating unnecessary regulations and promoting the development of domestic energy resources, Trump aimed to reduce US dependence on foreign oil and create jobs. However, critics argued that the order would also lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced consumer protections.

Executive Order 13801: Combating Social Media Bias

On February 9, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order 13801, titled "Promoting Technology and Preventing National Security Risks Through Research and Development." This order aimed to combat social media bias and promote the development of more secure and trustworthy online platforms.

Key Provisions of the Order

• Directs federal agencies to identify and mitigate social media bias
• Establishes a task force to promote the development of more secure online platforms
• Requires federal agencies to consider the impact of their regulations on the development of online platforms

Impact of the Order

Executive Order 13801 was seen as a significant step towards promoting online security and reducing social media bias. By combating social media bias and promoting the development of more secure online platforms, Trump aimed to protect national security and enhance online freedom of speech. However, critics argued that the order would also lead to reduced online anonymity and increased censorship.

Executive Order 13818: Countering Iran's Malign Activities

On February 9, 2017, Trump signed Executive Order