Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump cancels flights of Afghan refugees — President Donald Trump announced the cancellation of flights for 1,600 Afghan refugees, including families who had worked with the US occupation and whose lives are endangered. This decision has sparked criticism from some conservative commentators who previously condemned the US for betraying Afghan allies. The move is part of Trump's broader immigration policy changes during his second term in office.
• Trump declares emergency at the southern border — President Trump declared an emergency at the southern border, a move aimed at addressing immigration and border security issues. This declaration is part of Trump's broader immigration policy and has significant implications for federal resource allocation and immigration enforcement.

Supporting reports

• Trump proposes relocating Gaza's population — Former President Donald Trump proposed relocating the entire population of Gaza to other Arab countries, such as Egypt and Jordan. This proposal has been met with skepticism and criticism, as it disregards the complex political and humanitarian issues involved. Both Egypt and Jordan support an independent Palestinian state and are unlikely to agree to such a plan.
• Trump administration plans Palestinian relocation — President Trump announced plans to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, suggesting that Jordan and Egypt could take in more refugees. This policy aligns with Trump's vision of redeveloping Gaza for real estate purposes, as discussed with King Abdullah II of Jordan and planned for discussion with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Trump's comments indicate a shift from the traditional U.S. support for a two-state solution. The plan has been embraced by some Israeli factions, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who supports establishing Israeli settlements in Gaza.

Supporting reports

• ICE begins immigration raids in Chicago — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with other federal agencies, initiated "enhanced targeted operations" in Chicago to enforce immigration laws. This action follows statements by the incoming "border czar" Tom Homan about reconsidering enforcement strategies. The raids aim to increase daily arrests significantly, with ICE field offices directed to meet specific quotas. The operations have caused concern among Chicago's undocumented population, estimated at 400,000, many of whom are staying home to avoid encounters with law enforcement.
• ICE conducts multi-agency immigration raids — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a series of coordinated raids in multiple U.S. cities, including Chicago, resulting in 956 arrests. These operations involved several law enforcement agencies and targeted individuals with criminal convictions. The raids are part of the Trump administration's broader plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. The administration has relaxed guidelines that previously restricted arrests in sensitive locations such as schools and churches. The raids have sparked legal challenges and concerns from local officials and immigrant communities.
• Trump issues executive order allowing ICE to enter schools and churches — Former President Donald Trump announced an executive order permitting ICE agents to enter school classrooms and churches to search for migrants. This order has sparked controversy and criticism, particularly from religious and educational institutions, as it raises concerns about the sanctity and safety of these spaces. The order is part of Trump's broader immigration enforcement strategy, which has faced opposition from various civil rights groups and religious leaders.
• ICE conducts immigration raids in Chicago — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with other federal agencies, conducted "enhanced targeted operations" in Chicago, targeting undocumented immigrants. The raids, which began shortly after Donald Trump took office, have caused significant fear among residents, leading to decreased school attendance and increased legal aid efforts. The operations have been criticized for affecting both individuals with and without criminal histories, and for lifting bans on raids in sensitive locations like schools and churches.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration broadens ICE mandate to arrest all undocumented immigrants, including those checking in voluntarily — One of Trump's first actions after his second-term inauguration was to broaden ICE's mandate so that all immigrants without legal status are now prioritized for arrest, including those who have been checking in and cooperating with authorities. Previously, under Biden, immigration officials prioritized detaining those who posed threats to public safety or had criminal records. Guardian analysis estimates approximately 1,400 arrests (8% of 16,500 total arrests in the first month) occurred during or immediately after ICE check-ins. Immigrants who had been complying with supervision orders, wearing ankle monitors, or using facial recognition apps now face detention despite their cooperation.
• Trump administration reinstates 'remain in Mexico' policy — The Trump administration has announced the reinstatement of the "remain in Mexico" policy, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols. This policy requires non-Mexican asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed in the United States. The Department of Homeland Security stated that the program would restart immediately, following its termination by President Biden in 2021. Critics argue that the policy exposes migrants to dangerous conditions, while Trump officials claim it deters fraudulent asylum claims.
• Trump administration reinstates expedited removal — The Trump administration has reinstated the policy of "expedited removal," allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to quickly deport undocumented individuals who cannot prove they have been in the U.S. for more than two years. This directive, issued by the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, is part of a broader immigration crackdown by the administration, aiming to increase deportations and enforce immigration laws more aggressively.
• Trump reintroduces expedited removals policy — President Trump reintroduced a 2019 policy on January 21, 2025, to speed up deportations of undocumented immigrants unable to prove they have lived in the U.S. for two years or more. This policy expands the scope of "expedited removals" beyond areas within 100 miles of U.S. borders, raising concerns about due process and the rights of immigrants.
• DoJ orders prosecution of officials resisting immigration crackdown — The U.S. Department of Justice, under the Trump administration, has issued a directive to federal prosecutors to target state and local officials who resist the administration's mass deportation campaign. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove instructed prosecutors to investigate and potentially bring criminal charges against officials in "sanctuary" jurisdictions for harboring undocumented immigrants or withholding immigration information. This directive is part of a broader immigration crackdown, including executive orders to mobilize federal agencies for enforcement and challenge local laws blocking Trump's immigration agenda.
• Trump administration expands expedited removal authority — The Trump administration announced the expansion of "expedited removal" authority nationwide, allowing immigration officers to deport individuals without requiring them to appear before a judge. This policy, detailed in a notice in the Federal Register, enables Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport people who cannot prove their right to remain in the U.S. immediately. The expansion aims to expedite deportations and bypass traditional immigration court proceedings, affecting immigrants who entered the U.S. legally under Biden-era programs.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order — A federal judge in Washington issued a 14-day restraining order blocking an executive order by Trump that aimed to end birthright citizenship. The lawsuit claims Trump's order violates the 14th Amendment and previous court decisions. This temporary block prevents the order from taking effect while the legal challenge proceeds.
• Trump ordered end to birthright citizenship — President Trump issued an order to end birthright citizenship, which was temporarily blocked by a federal district judge in Seattle, John Coughenour. The judge described the order as blatantly unconstitutional. The Trump administration expressed its intention to fight the legal challenge up to the Supreme Court if necessary.
• California sues Trump administration over birthright citizenship order — The state of California, along with a coalition of other states and the city of San Francisco, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to an executive order that seeks to deny automatic citizenship to certain children born in the United States. The lawsuit, filed in the US district court for Massachusetts, argues that the order violates the US Constitution by attempting to reinterpret the 14th Amendment. A federal judge in Washington has temporarily blocked the order from taking effect.
• Federal judge rules against Trump's birthright citizenship order — A federal judge ruled against an executive order signed by Donald Trump on his first day back in power, which sought to end the right to citizenship for all children born on American soil and subject to US jurisdiction. The judge described the order as "blatantly unconstitutional," highlighting its conflict with the 14th Amendment, which has guaranteed birthright citizenship since 1868. This ruling represents a significant legal challenge to Trump's immigration policy and could potentially reach the US Supreme Court for further adjudication.
• Temporary restraining order ruling — State of Washington et al v. Donald J. Trump et al (W.D. Wash.) 2:25-cv-00127 — Judge John Coughenour of the Western District of Washington issued a temporary restraining order against the Executive Order.
• Federal judge blocks Trump's birthright citizenship executive order — A federal judge has blocked the enforcement of Trump's executive order that aimed to deny birthright citizenship to children born in the U.S. to visa holders and illegal immigrants. This judicial action temporarily halts the implementation of the order, pending further legal challenges and potential Supreme Court review. The order had sparked significant legal and public opposition due to its constitutional implications.
• Federal judge blocks end of birthright citizenship — On January 23, 2025, a federal judge appointed by Ronald Reagan temporarily blocked the Trump administration's attempt to end birthright citizenship, calling it "blatantly unconstitutional." This ruling is a significant legal setback for the administration's immigration policy and upholds the constitutional guarantee of citizenship for those born in the U.S.
• Judge blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order — U.S. District Judge John Coughenour issued a temporary restraining order against President Trump's executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship established by the Fourteenth Amendment. The order was challenged by 22 states and two cities, with Coughenour stating the executive order is blatantly unconstitutional. A hearing for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for February 6.
• Judge blocks Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship — U.S. District Judge John Coughenour issued a temporary restraining order against Trump's executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship established by the Fourteenth Amendment. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit from 22 states and two cities, with Coughenour labeling the order as blatantly unconstitutional.

Supporting reports

• DHS rescinded guidance limiting immigration enforcement in schools and protected areas — On January 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced rescission of prior guidance that had designated schools as "protected areas" where certain immigration enforcement actions were restricted. The rescission did not explicitly authorize agents to enter schools but communicated that schools were no longer treated as uniquely buffered spaces under federal guidance, altering the legal and practical environment for immigration enforcement near educational facilities.
• Trump administration overturns sensitive areas policy — The Trump administration has overturned longstanding policies that restricted immigration enforcement in "sensitive areas" such as schools, churches, and hospitals. This change allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection to arrest migrants in these locations. The Department of Homeland Security announced the policy shift, emphasizing a crackdown on immigration. This move is part of a broader set of executive actions aimed at increasing deportations and cooperation between ICE and local governments.
• Department of Homeland Security removes guidance limiting immigration enforcement near sensitive locations — The Department of Homeland Security removed previous guidance that had limited enforcement actions near churches, schools, and hospitals. Immigration enforcement operations now occur at houses of worship and other sensitive locations. Over 620,000 deportations have occurred since January 2025 under this enforcement posture.
• DHS scraps guidance limiting immigration arrests near sensitive locations — The Department of Homeland Security removed previous guidance that limited immigration enforcement actions near sensitive locations such as churches, schools, and hospitals. This policy change has led to increased deportations and raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable communities and the sanctity of sensitive locations.
• ICE enforcement surge in Lake Worth Beach following Trump's January 2025 inauguration — Following Trump's January 2025 inauguration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensified operations in Lake Worth Beach, Florida, a city of 45,000 located 10 miles from Mar-a-Lago. ICE agents began patrolling streets, raiding grocery stores, churches, and schools, and coordinating with local police for arrests. According to the Guatemalan-Maya Center director, approximately 70% of center users attending immigration check-ins or court dates have been deported, detained, or given ankle bracelets with 90-day self-deportation orders. The crackdown has created widespread fear, isolation, and documented mental-health crises within the migrant community.
• Trump issues immigration executive orders — On his first day in office, Donald Trump issued several executive orders targeting immigration. These include a national emergency declaration to deploy the military to the US-Mexico border, an attempt to end birthright citizenship, and the rescission of a taskforce aimed at reuniting families separated at the border. The orders have been described as chaotic and difficult to enforce, with many expected to face legal challenges. The actions have incited panic and confusion among immigrants and their advocates.
• DoJ orders prosecution of officials resisting immigration crackdown — The U.S. Department of Justice, under the Trump administration, has issued a directive to federal prosecutors to target state and local officials who resist the administration's mass deportation campaign. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove instructed prosecutors to investigate and potentially bring criminal charges against officials in "sanctuary" jurisdictions for harboring undocumented immigrants or withholding immigration information. This directive is part of a broader immigration crackdown, including executive orders to mobilize federal agencies for enforcement and challenge local laws blocking Trump's immigration agenda.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14160, restricting birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents under certain conditions. The order specifies that citizenship will not be granted if the mother was unlawfully present or temporarily in the U.S. and the father was not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident at the time of birth. This policy applies to births occurring 30 days after the order's issuance.
• Trump attempts to end birthright citizenship — President Trump signed an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the US to undocumented immigrants. This order instructs federal agencies not to issue certain documents to these children, challenging the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship. Civil rights groups, including the ACLU, have vowed to challenge this directive in court, as the president cannot unilaterally change the Constitution.
• Trump signed executive order ending birthright citizenship — On January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order targeting automatic citizenship for US-born children of undocumented immigrants and some legal immigrants. The order limits birthright citizenship if a person's "mother was unlawfully present in the United States and the father was not a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident" or when the mother's presence was "lawful but temporary." Birthright citizenship is protected by the 14th Amendment. The order was temporarily blocked on January 23, with the judge calling it "blatantly unconstitutional."
• Trump issued executive order denying birthright citizenship to children of non-permanent residents — On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order titled "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship" declaring that individuals born in the United States are not citizens if their parents do not have legal permanent status. The order directly contradicts the Fourteenth Amendment's guarantee of birthright citizenship. The order prompted legal challenges from the ACLU and other organizations on behalf of families affected by the policy, including an asylum applicant from Honduras whose child was due after the order took effect.
• Trump signed executive order attacking birthright citizenship — On his first day in office in January 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order titled "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship" announcing that the federal government would not issue documents recognizing U.S. citizenship to persons born in the United States whose mother was unlawfully present or whose presence was lawful but temporary, and whose father was not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The order specified a 30-day implementation delay. Trump had promised this action as a candidate in May 2023, calling birthright citizenship "based on a historical myth, and a willful misinterpretation of the law by the open borders advocates."
• Trump signed executive order denying birthright citizenship to children of non-permanent-resident parents — On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship," declaring that individuals born in the United States are not citizens if their parents lack legal permanent status, directly contradicting the Fourteenth Amendment. The order prompted lawsuits by families including asylum applicants, with lower court judges calling it "blatantly unconstitutional." On June 30, 2026, the Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship in a 6–3 decision, though Justice Kavanaugh indicated he would overturn it if Congress rewrote relevant law.
• Trump issues executive order on American citizenship — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Protecting The Meaning And Value Of American Citizenship." The order stipulates that U.S. citizenship will not automatically be granted to individuals born in the United States if their mother was unlawfully present or temporarily in the U.S. at the time of birth, and the father was not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This policy applies to births occurring 30 days after the order's issuance. The order directs federal departments to align their regulations with this policy and issue guidance within 30 days.
• Trump signed executive order denying birthright citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants and temporary visa holders — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to deny citizenship documentation to persons born in the United States whose mother was unlawfully present or on temporary visa status and whose father was not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The order applies to births occurring 30 days after its issuance. It directs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Social Security to implement the policy within their agencies and issue guidance within 30 days.
• Trump signs executive orders to end birthright citizenship — On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed a record number of executive actions, including one aimed at ending the constitutionally-protected right to birthright citizenship. This move is part of a broader set of actions targeting immigration and citizenship policies. The executive order has sparked significant controversy and legal challenges, as it directly contradicts the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States.
• Trump ends birthright citizenship for certain children — President Donald Trump signed an executive order targeting birthright citizenship for children born in the US to certain immigrant parents. The order specifies that citizenship will be denied if the mother was unlawfully present and the father was not a US citizen or lawful permanent resident at the time of birth. This move challenges the 14th Amendment and is expected to face legal challenges.
• Trump plans to challenge birthright citizenship — Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order ending automatic citizenship for children born to non-citizen parents in the US. This direct challenge to the 14th amendment would likely trigger immediate constitutional challenges, with Trump acknowledging the need for a constitutional amendment.
• Trump redefines birthright citizenship — President Trump signed an executive order redefining birthright citizenship, targeting children of undocumented migrants born on US soil. This move contravenes the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States. The order is part of a broader immigration policy overhaul.
• Trump signs executive order limiting automatic birthright citizenship — On the day after his inauguration, President Trump signed an executive order that would deny citizenship to US-born babies whose parents are not citizens or green-card holders. The order directly contradicts the 14th Amendment. Five pregnant immigrant women, including an asylum seeker from Venezuela, immediately filed suit challenging the order, fearing their unborn children would become stateless.
• Trump issues executive order on birthright citizenship — President Trump issued an executive order titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” which seeks to overturn the established interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment regarding birthright citizenship. This order aims to give Trump the power to determine citizenship status, prompting lawsuits from multiple states and organizations.
• Trump Issues Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship — President Trump issued an executive order titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” aiming to overturn the constitutional guarantee of birthright citizenship established by the Fourteenth Amendment. This order seeks to give the president the power to determine citizenship status, which has prompted lawsuits from multiple states and organizations.
• — Former President Donald Trump issued an executive order stating that children born in the U.S. to visa holders and illegal immigrants are not entitled to birthright citizenship. This order challenges the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship to all persons born in the U.S. and contradicts a Supreme Court ruling from 1898. The order has already been blocked by a federal judge, and several states have launched lawsuits against it. The order is expected to have a chilling effect on skilled immigration to the U.S.

Supporting reports

• CBPOne asylum appointment system canceled by Trump administration — On January 20, 2025, hours after Trump's inauguration, the Trump administration canceled the CBPOne mobile application system that had allowed asylum seekers to request legal appointments to apply for refuge at the US-Mexico border. The system, created during the Biden administration, was a legal mechanism for rationing asylum appointments. Its cancellation left asylum seekers with scheduled appointments—including Alexander's family with a February 2 appointment in Calexico, California—without recourse.
• Trump administration cancels 30,000 CBPOne asylum appointments via executive order — On 20 January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order cancelling all scheduled CBPOne appointments for asylum seekers, affecting approximately 30,000 migrants who had been granted prized appointments to enter the US legally from Mexico. The order abruptly closed the border for those planning to seek asylum through official channels. Families like a Salvadoran household were turned back at the international bridge; many have since dispersed across Mexico, entered unlawfully, or given up on seeking US asylum.
• Trump administration plans to cancel CBP One app — The Trump administration plans to cancel the CBP One app, which migrants in Mexico use to arrange US asylum appointments. This move is part of a broader set of immigration policy changes that include reviving the Remain in Mexico policy and Title 42. These changes are expected to increase the number of migrants in Mexico's border cities, potentially overwhelming local resources and increasing the risk of exploitation by criminal groups.
• Trump administration shuts down CBP One app and reclassifies legal immigrants as illegal — The Trump administration shut down the CBP One mobile app on the first day of Trump's second term in January 2025, eliminating the scheduling and pre-screening tool that allowed immigrants to request legal entry appointments. The app was then repurposed as a tool for requesting removal from the U.S. The administration has begun reclassifying many people who entered the U.S. legally via the app as suddenly illegal, affecting their immigration status retroactively.
• Trump administration terminates CBP One asylum app and deploys troops to southern border — Hours after Trump's second inauguration, the administration signed a national emergency order allowing additional US troops at the southern border and terminated the CBP One mobile app, which had permitted tens of thousands of people in Mexico to cross legally and apply for asylum. The action reversed Biden-era policy and contributed to a dramatic drop in border crossings in the Del Rio sector from over 2,300 daily in December 2023 to an average of 30 by September 2025.
• Trump cancels CBP One app — On January 20, 2025, the Trump administration abruptly canceled the CBP One app, which was used by asylum seekers to schedule appointments at the US-Mexico border. This action resulted in the cancellation of approximately 30,000 scheduled appointments, leaving hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers in limbo. The app had been a critical tool for managing asylum requests, allowing limited daily appointments and reducing congestion at the border. The cancellation has caused significant distress among asylum seekers and may lead to increased attempts to cross the border illegally.
• Trump disables CBP One app for migrants — On the day of his inauguration, President Trump disabled the CBP One phone app's appointment system, which allowed prospective migrants and asylum seekers to schedule appointments with U.S. authorities for legal entry. This action affected approximately 270,000 people trying to apply and canceled existing appointments for about 30,000 individuals, many of whom had waited in dangerous conditions in Mexico. This move effectively closed a legal pathway for migrants and asylum seekers to enter the United States.
• Trump administration deports Russian asylum-seeking family to Costa Rica without asylum hearing — The Trump administration canceled an asylum appointment for a Russian family (Alexander, his wife, and son) scheduled for February 2, 2025, after Trump's January 20 inauguration. When the family presented themselves at the US-Mexico border, they were arrested, detained for one month, then forcibly deported via military aircraft to Costa Rica—a country they had no connection to—as part of a third-country deportation deal. The family was subsequently detained in Costa Rica for two months in poor conditions before being released following a June 2025 Costa Rican constitutional court ruling that their rights had been violated.
• Trump cancels asylum appointment system — On January 20, 2025, the Trump administration canceled the CBP One app, an online system that allowed asylum seekers to schedule appointments with border agents. This cancellation left many asylum seekers stranded and without access to the process.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order on Immigration Enforcement — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, titled "Protecting the American People Against Invasion," which revokes several previous executive orders related to immigration policies. The order mandates strict enforcement of immigration laws, prioritizes the removal of inadmissible and removable aliens, and establishes Homeland Security Task Forces nationwide. It also directs federal agencies to revoke policies based on the revoked orders and to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
• Suspension of U.S. Refugee Admissions Program — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14163, suspending the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) effective January 27, 2025. The order cites national interest and security concerns, allowing exceptions on a case-by-case basis. It revokes Executive Order 14013 from February 4, 2021, and mandates periodic reviews to assess the program's resumption.
• Trump administration plans to revive Remain in Mexico policy — The Trump administration plans to revive the Remain in Mexico policy, which forces asylum seekers to wait in dangerous border cities while their applications are processed. This policy change is expected to increase the number of migrants in Mexico's border cities, potentially overwhelming local resources and increasing the risk of exploitation by criminal groups.
• Trump administration plans to revive Title 42 policy — The Trump administration reportedly plans to revive Title 42, a pandemic-era public health policy that expelled people almost 3 million times without allowing them to request asylum. This policy change is expected to increase the number of migrants in Mexico's border cities, potentially overwhelming local resources and increasing the risk of exploitation by criminal groups.
• Trump administration suspends asylum system at southern border — Within hours of taking office in his second term, Trump suspended the asylum system at the southern border as part of a wide-ranging immigration crackdown. This action eliminated legal pathways for asylum seekers and represents one of several concurrent restrictions on immigration, including ending temporary legal residency for Haitian, Venezuelan, and Cuban nationals and moving to revoke temporary protected status for multiple immigrant groups.
• Trump resumes Migrant Protection Protocols — President Trump reinstated the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), also known as the "Remain in Mexico" policy. This policy requires migrants and asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their U.S. immigration court proceedings are pending, exposing them to high risks of violence. The resumption of MPP is part of Trump's broader immigration crackdown.
• Trump suspends U.S. Refugee Admissions Program — President Trump suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, halting the resettlement of thoroughly vetted refugees in the United States. This suspension affects the resettlement infrastructure and funding for agencies that support refugees, potentially leading to office closures and reduced capacity to assist future refugees.
• Trump issues executive order on immigration enforcement — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Protecting The American People Against Invasion." The order revokes several previous executive orders related to immigration policies and mandates strict enforcement of immigration laws. It directs federal agencies to prioritize the removal of inadmissible and removable aliens, establish Homeland Security Task Forces nationwide, and enhance cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The order also calls for the reestablishment of the VOICE Office to support victims of crimes committed by removable aliens and imposes penalties on illegal aliens and those facilitating their presence in the U.S.
• President Trump signed executive order on immigration enforcement titled "Protecting The American People Against Invasion" — President Donald Trump issued an executive order suspending the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) on January 20, 2025. The order cites concerns over the ability of the U.S. to absorb large numbers of refugees without compromising resources, safety, and security. The suspension will remain in effect until a determination is made that resuming the program aligns with U.S. interests. The order allows for case-by-case admissions if deemed in the national interest and revokes a previous executive order aimed at enhancing refugee resettlement programs.
• White House signed executive order on border security and immigration enforcement — The White House issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to enforce immigration laws against all "inadmissible and removable aliens." The order revokes four prior executive orders from the Biden administration, establishes Homeland Security Task Forces in all states, directs ICE to prioritize removal of recent entrants, authorizes state and local law enforcement to perform immigration enforcement functions, and instructs agencies to deny public benefits to unauthorized aliens and audit funding to NGOs serving immigrants. The order also directs the Secretary of State to pressure foreign governments to accept deportations and instructs the Attorney General to prosecute unauthorized entry as a criminal priority.
• White House signed executive order suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program — The White House signed an executive order titled "Securing Our Borders" directing the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to deploy physical barriers, personnel, and technology along the southern border; the Secretary of Homeland Security to maximize detention of apprehended aliens pending removal; the Attorney General and DHS to prioritize prosecution of immigration-related offenses; and multiple agencies to resume the Migrant Protection Protocols, terminate parole programs including CBP One, and pursue international cooperation on immigration enforcement.
• Trump suspends entry at southern border — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, suspending entry into the United States of refugees under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), effective January 27, 2025. The order cites record migration levels over the preceding four years and claims the U.S. lacks capacity to absorb refugees without compromising resources for citizens. It directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to suspend decisions on refugee applications and requires a report within 90 days on whether resumption would serve U.S. interests. Case-by-case admissions may continue at the discretion of State and Homeland Security secretaries if deemed in the national interest.
• Trump suspends Refugee Admissions Program — On January 20, 2025, President Trump suspended the entry of people newly arriving at the southern border. This action is part of a series of executive orders targeting immigration and border security. The suspension is expected to have significant humanitarian and legal implications, affecting asylum seekers and migrants seeking entry into the United States.
• Trump signed executive order freezing refugee admissions — President Trump suspended the Refugee Admissions Program for at least 90 days on January 20, 2025. This suspension is part of a broader strategy to restrict immigration and refugee intake. The decision has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and could have severe consequences for refugees seeking safety in the United States.
• — On January 23, 2025, Trump signed an executive order suspending the country's refugee resettlement program. Refugees may only be admitted on a case-by-case basis if their entry is in the "national interest." The order cited "record levels of migration" and claimed the country lacked capacity to "absorb large numbers of migrants, and in particular, refugees." Advocates say the move endangered lives and left families devastated, with thousands of refugees stranded globally.

Supporting reports

• Trump ends legal pathways for certain nationalities — President Trump ended processes that allowed Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans with financial sponsors to live and work legally in the U.S. for two years. This decision removes a legal pathway for these individuals to explore permanent immigration options, affecting their ability to seek safety and stability in the U.S.
• Trump resumes border wall construction — President Trump signed an executive order to resume construction of the border wall along the US-Mexico border. This action reverses the previous administration's halt on the project and is part of Trump's broader immigration crackdown. The resumption of construction is expected to face logistical and legal challenges, as well as opposition from various groups.
• Trump administration reinstates 'remain in Mexico' policy — The Trump administration has announced the reinstatement of the "remain in Mexico" policy, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols. This policy requires non-Mexican asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed in the United States. The Department of Homeland Security stated that the program would restart immediately, following its termination by President Biden in 2021. Critics argue that the policy exposes migrants to dangerous conditions, while Trump officials claim it deters fraudulent asylum claims.
• Trump reimplements "remain in Mexico" policy — Trump reissued an executive order to reinstate the "remain in Mexico" policy, requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their claims are processed in the U.S. This policy, previously implemented during Trump's first term, has faced criticism for endangering asylum seekers and complicating the asylum process. Legal challenges are expected as the policy is seen as a deterrent to asylum claims.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration increases ICE detention quotas and budget — Within days of Trump's second inauguration on 20 January 2025, the administration ordered ICE to detain more people, establishing new quotas that increased daily arrests from a few hundred to 1,200–1,500. ICE's annual budget has grown from $6 billion a decade ago to $85 billion, making it the highest-funded law enforcement agency in the US. New ICE recruits receive signing-on bonuses of up to $50,000. The administration also expanded Project Homecoming, a self-deportation scheme offering $2,600 exit bonuses (increased from $1,000 in May 2025), funded by repurposing $250 million previously allocated to refugee aid.
• ICE detainee death toll reaches 16 since Trump's January return to office — Since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, at least 16 people have died in US Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, including Ismael Ayala-Uribe, a 39-year-old Mexican national and former DACA recipient, who died at an ICE facility in Adelanto, California on September 21. ICE was holding 59,762 detainees as of September 25, exceeding the previous record of 60,000 set in August. Data shows a death rate of approximately 1.88 per month under Trump compared to 0.54 per month during the Biden administration. Immigration advocates cite "horrendous conditions" and inadequate medical monitoring despite ICE's assertions of safe, humane environments.
• Escalation of Deportation of Undocumented People — The incoming administration has announced plans to escalate the deportation of undocumented individuals, a move that is expected to increase fear among immigrant communities. This strategy is part of a broader approach to immigration enforcement that has been criticized for its potential to create a climate of fear and uncertainty. The National Immigrant Justice Center is highlighted as a resource for those affected by these policies, offering support and advocacy in response to the administration's actions.
• Trump ICE raids cause worker absences — New ICE raids under the Trump administration have led to significant worker absences in California's agricultural sector. The raids are reportedly targeting individuals based on racial profiling rather than criminal suspicion, causing fear and disruption in communities.
• DoJ orders prosecution of officials resisting immigration crackdown — The U.S. Department of Justice, under the Trump administration, has issued a directive to federal prosecutors to target state and local officials who resist the administration's mass deportation campaign. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove instructed prosecutors to investigate and potentially bring criminal charges against officials in "sanctuary" jurisdictions for harboring undocumented immigrants or withholding immigration information. This directive is part of a broader immigration crackdown, including executive orders to mobilize federal agencies for enforcement and challenge local laws blocking Trump's immigration agenda.
• ICE raid in Newark targets Hispanic military veteran — ICE agents conducted a raid at a seafood wholesaler in Newark, NJ, arresting three people, including a Puerto Rican military veteran. The raid was part of a racial profiling operation targeting Hispanic individuals, raising concerns about discrimination and unlawful targeting of US citizens.

Supporting reports

• Presidential Proclamation on Border Security — President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation declaring an ongoing invasion at the southern border of the United States. The proclamation suspends the entry of aliens involved in this invasion and imposes restrictions on their access to immigration provisions. The President directed the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, to take actions necessary to repel and remove aliens engaged in the invasion.
• Trump issued proclamation declaring southern border "invasion" and suspending entry of migrants — President Trump signed a proclamation on January 20, 2025, declaring the southern border situation an "invasion" under Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution. The proclamation suspends physical entry of aliens "engaged in the invasion" across the southern border, restricts their access to asylum provisions (Section 208 of the INA), and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to "repel, repatriate, or remove" such aliens. The order applies to aliens who fail to provide medical, criminal history, or background information before entry. Trump asserts inherent constitutional authority to take these actions independent of statutory immigration law.

Supporting reports

• US Senate passes Laken Riley Act — The US Senate passed the Laken Riley Act with a 64-35 vote, requiring the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes. The bill, named after a Georgia nursing student murdered by a Venezuelan national, was supported by a dozen Democrats and all present Republicans. It now moves to the House, which had passed a slightly different version earlier. If approved, it will go to President Trump for his signature, marking his first legislative victory of his second term.
• Laken Riley Act passes US House — The US House of Representatives passed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes. The bill, which passed with a vote of 263 to 158, now awaits President Trump's signature. The legislation allows state attorneys general to sue the federal government for failing to enforce immigration laws. Critics argue it could lead to racial profiling and undermine due process, while supporters claim it enhances immigration enforcement and border security.

Supporting reports

• Trump executive order on birthright citizenship challenged at Supreme Court — On inauguration day (January 20, 2025), President Trump signed an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the US without at least one parent who is a legal permanent resident or US citizen. The order was immediately blocked by lower courts as "blatantly unconstitutional." After failed appeals, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on May 15, 2025, as an emergency case. The administration is pressing the Court to allow partial enforcement and to narrow the scope of lower-court injunctions from nationwide to case-specific.
• Democratic attorneys general began planning legal challenges to Trump administration in February 2024 — Democratic attorneys general, led by California (5,600 staffers) and New York (2,400 staffers), began planning in February 2024 for potential legal challenges to Trump's campaign promises and Project 2025 implementation. They filed their first challenges to Trump's January 20 executive orders on January 21, 2025. Their lawsuits have been so successful that they have sparked Trump and MAGA Republicans to attack judges and the judiciary.
• Trump pardons January 6 rioters — Trump decided to pardon or commute the sentences of all individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6 riots, including those who attacked police officers. This decision has sparked controversy and concern, particularly from law enforcement groups and victims of the riots. Critics argue that this undermines the rule of law and public safety. Jackson Reffitt, a key witness against his father, expressed fear for his safety now that his father is free.
• California sues Trump administration over birthright citizenship order — The state of California, along with a coalition of other states and the city of San Francisco, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to an executive order that seeks to deny automatic citizenship to certain children born in the United States. The lawsuit, filed in the US district court for Massachusetts, argues that the order violates the US Constitution by attempting to reinterpret the 14th Amendment. A federal judge in Washington has temporarily blocked the order from taking effect.
• States launch lawsuits against Trump's birthright citizenship order — Multiple states have initiated lawsuits challenging Trump's executive order that seeks to deny birthright citizenship to children of visa holders and illegal immigrants. These legal actions argue that the order violates the 14th Amendment and Supreme Court precedent. The lawsuits are part of a broader legal battle over the order's constitutionality and its potential impact on immigration policy.

Supporting reports

• America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14150, directing the Secretary of State to align the Department of State's policies and operations with an "America First" foreign policy. This directive emphasizes prioritizing American interests in foreign policy decisions. The order specifies that it should not affect existing legal authorities or create enforceable rights against the U.S. government.
• Establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14158, establishing the Department of Government Efficiency to modernize federal technology and software. The order renames the United States Digital Service as the United States DOGE Service and creates a temporary organization to advance the President's 18-month DOGE agenda. The initiative aims to improve government-wide software, network infrastructure, and IT systems, promoting interoperability and data integrity.
• Executive Order 14154 Revokes Climate and Energy Regulations — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14154, titled "Unleashing American Energy," which revokes multiple previous executive orders related to climate and energy policies. The order aims to promote energy exploration and production on federal lands, eliminate the electric vehicle mandate, and streamline the permitting process for energy projects. It also disbands the Interagency Working Group on the Social Cost of Greenhouse Gases and terminates the American Climate Corps.
• Executive Order Designating Cartels as Terrorist Organizations — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14157, designating certain international cartels and organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists. This order aims to address the national security threat posed by these entities, which are involved in violence and illegal activities across the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal officials, to recommend designations under the Immigration and Nationality Act and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
• Executive Order Ending DEI Programs — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14151 on January 20, 2025, directing the termination of all federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The order mandates the Office of Management and Budget, along with other federal agencies, to eliminate DEI-related positions, programs, and policies within 60 days. The order aims to align federal employment practices with a policy of equal dignity and respect, excluding DEI considerations.
• Executive Order on Federal Hiring Reform — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14170 on January 20, 2025, reforming the federal hiring process to emphasize merit and efficiency. The order mandates a Federal Hiring Plan to recruit highly skilled individuals committed to American ideals, while preventing hiring based on race, sex, or religion. It aims to reduce hiring time, improve candidate communication, and integrate modern technology in recruitment. The Office of Personnel Management will establish performance metrics and consult with stakeholders to ensure reform success.
• Executive Order on Free Speech and Censorship — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14149 on January 20, 2025, aimed at restoring freedom of speech and ending federal censorship. The order prohibits federal entities from engaging in activities that abridge free speech and mandates an investigation into past government censorship. The Attorney General is tasked with reporting findings and recommending remedial actions. This order emphasizes the protection of constitutionally protected speech and seeks to correct past misconduct related to censorship.
• Executive Order on Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14172, directing the reinstatement of the name "Mount McKinley" and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." The order mandates the Secretary of the Interior to update the Geographic Names Information System and work with relevant entities to implement these changes. The order aims to honor American heritage and contributions by renaming national landmarks.
• Executive Order Restores Accountability in Federal Workforce — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14171, reinstating Executive Order 13957, which creates Schedule F in the excepted service. This order aims to enhance accountability for policy-influencing positions within the federal workforce by allowing easier removal of employees for poor performance or misconduct. It revokes Executive Order 14003, which protected federal workforce rights, and mandates amendments to civil service regulations to align with the reinstated policies.
• Executive Order to Develop Alaska's Resources — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14153 on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to maximize the development of Alaska's natural resources. The order mandates rescinding restrictions on resource development, expediting permits, and prioritizing liquefied natural gas projects. It aims to enhance economic and national security by utilizing Alaska's energy, mineral, timber, and seafood resources. The order also calls for reviewing and potentially reversing previous regulations that hinder resource development in Alaska.
• Executive Order to End Federal Weaponization — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14147 on January 20, 2025, directing the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence to review past federal enforcement and intelligence activities for misconduct. The order aims to address alleged weaponization of federal agencies against political opponents by the previous administration. Reports with recommendations for remedial actions are to be submitted to the President.
• President Trump rescinds multiple executive orders — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14148, revoking numerous executive orders from the previous administration. These include orders related to racial equity, COVID-19 response, climate change, and immigration policies. The revocations aim to reverse policies deemed harmful and restore what the administration describes as common sense to federal governance. The order mandates agency heads to cease implementation of the revoked orders and requires reviews of related actions for potential rescission or amendment.
• Presidential memorandum issued to resolve security clearance backlog — President issued a memorandum to address the backlog of security clearances for Executive Office of the President personnel. The White House Counsel is directed to grant interim Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information clearances for up to six months to affected personnel, allowing them access to necessary facilities and technology.
• Presidential memorandum mandates return to in-person work — President issued a memorandum directing heads of executive departments and agencies to end remote work arrangements and require employees to return to in-person work at their duty stations. Exemptions may be made as necessary by department and agency heads. The memorandum is to be implemented in accordance with applicable law.
• Presidential Memorandum on Accountability for Senior Executives — President issued a memorandum to enhance accountability among Career Senior Executive Service (SES) officials. The directive mandates the Office of Personnel Management and Office of Management and Budget to issue SES Performance Plans. Agency heads are instructed to reassess and realign SES members, reconstitute Executive Resources Boards, and enforce performance evaluations. The memorandum emphasizes the President's authority to remove SES officials who fail to meet performance standards or violate duties.
• Presidential memorandum on America First Trade Policy — The Executive Office of the President issued a memorandum establishing the America First Trade Policy. This policy directs various departments to investigate trade deficits, unfair trade practices, and currency manipulation. It also mandates reviews of trade agreements, including the USMCA, and assesses economic relations with China. The memorandum aims to enhance national security and benefit American workers and businesses by recommending tariffs and other measures.
• Presidential memorandum on emergency price relief — The Executive Office of the President issued a memorandum directing executive departments and agencies to deliver emergency price relief to American families. The memorandum aims to lower housing costs, reduce healthcare expenses, and eliminate climate policies that increase food and fuel costs. The Assistant to the President for Economic Policy is tasked with reporting on the implementation status within 30 days and every 30 days thereafter.
• Presidential Memorandum on Federal Civic Architecture — President issued a memorandum directing the General Services Administration (GSA) to propose recommendations for ensuring federal buildings reflect civic identity and classical architectural heritage. The GSA must consult with relevant officials and submit recommendations within 60 days. The memorandum emphasizes community input and potential revisions to architectural guidelines.
• Presidential Memorandum on Hiring Freeze — President issued a memorandum ordering a freeze on hiring Federal civilian employees across the executive branch, effective January 20, 2025. The freeze excludes military personnel and positions related to immigration enforcement, national security, or public safety. The Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with other agencies, is tasked with developing a plan to reduce the workforce through efficiency improvements and attrition within 90 days. The memorandum remains in effect for the IRS until further notice.
• Presidential memorandum to redirect water in California — The President issued a memorandum directing the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior to restart efforts to redirect water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to Southern California. This action aims to address water shortages exacerbated by recent wildfires. The memorandum requires a progress report within 90 days on the implementation of these policies.
• Presidential Proclamation on Flag Display for Inauguration Day — President issued a proclamation mandating that the U.S. flag be flown at full-staff on Inauguration Day at all federal buildings, military posts, and U.S. facilities worldwide. This order applies to all future Inauguration Days, honoring the significance of the event. The flag will return to half-staff after Inauguration Day in memory of former President Carter, as previously directed.
• Regulatory Freeze Pending Review — The Executive Office of the President issued a memorandum ordering a regulatory freeze pending review. This directive requires all executive departments and agencies to halt proposing or issuing new rules until reviewed and approved by a department or agency head appointed by the President. The memorandum also mandates the withdrawal of rules sent to the Office of the Federal Register but not yet published, and considers postponing the effective date of published rules for 60 days for further review. The Office of Management and Budget Director is tasked with overseeing the implementation of this memorandum.
• Trump rescinds 78 Biden-era orders — On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump signed an executive order rescinding 78 orders and actions from the Biden administration. This sweeping action was part of Trump's first day in office, aimed at reversing policies related to the cost of living, censorship, and what he described as the "weaponisation of the government against the adversaries of the previous administration." The rescission of these orders marks a significant shift in policy direction.
• Trump signed 92 executive orders in 2025 — In the first 100 days of his presidency in 2025, Donald Trump signed 92 executive orders, marking the highest number of executive orders signed by a president in this timeframe for decades. These orders covered a wide range of policy areas, including civil service, immigration, education, health, taxes, tariffs, aid, and foreign policy. The rapid pace and breadth of these orders indicate a significant shift in U.S. policy under Trump's administration.
• Trump signs executive orders — On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed several executive orders during a public event, including one that withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. These orders were characterized as retaliatory actions against perceived wrongs and were met with approval from his supporters.
• America First Policy Directive To The Secretary Of State — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "America First Policy Directive To The Secretary Of State." This directive mandates the Secretary of State to align the Department of State's policies, programs, personnel, and operations with an "America First" foreign policy. The order emphasizes prioritizing American interests in foreign policy decisions. It is one of 26 executive orders issued by Trump on his first day in office during his second term.
• Executive Order Reforming Federal Hiring Process — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order establishing the "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) to modernize federal technology and software, aiming to enhance governmental efficiency and productivity. The order reorganizes the United States Digital Service into the United States DOGE Service, which will operate within the Executive Office of the President. It mandates the creation of DOGE Teams in each federal agency to implement the DOGE agenda, focusing on software modernization and data interoperability. The initiative includes a temporary organization to advance the agenda, set to terminate on July 4, 2026.
• Executive Order: Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at reforming the federal hiring process to emphasize merit and efficiency. The order mandates the development of a Federal Hiring Plan within 120 days, focusing on recruiting highly skilled individuals committed to American ideals and the Constitution. It prohibits hiring based on race, sex, or religion and seeks to reduce the time-to-hire to under 80 days. The plan also includes modernizing recruitment technology and improving communication with candidates.
• Trump designates cartels as terrorist organizations — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness." This order directs the reinstatement of the name "Mount McKinley" for North America's highest peak, reversing a 2015 decision by the Obama administration. It also mandates the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." The order requires the Secretary of the Interior to update the Geographic Names Information System and work with relevant entities to implement these changes. The order aims to honor American historical figures and promote national heritage.
• Trump ends federal DEI programs — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order designating certain international cartels and other organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists. This order aims to address the national security threat posed by these groups, which are involved in activities such as drug trafficking and violence across the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal officials, to recommend designations under the Immigration and Nationality Act and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The order also declares a national emergency to address these threats.
• Trump issues executive order on federal workforce accountability — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, to terminate all federal programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The order directs the Office of Management and Budget, the Attorney General, and the Office of Personnel Management to coordinate the cessation of DEI programs across federal agencies. It mandates the termination of DEI offices, positions, and related initiatives, and requires agencies to report on DEI-related expenditures and positions. The order aims to eliminate what it describes as discriminatory practices and restore a focus on merit-based employment.
• Trump issues executive order on gender ideology — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce." This order reinstates and amends Executive Order 13957, originally issued in 2020, which created Schedule F in the excepted service. The order aims to enhance accountability among federal employees in policy-influencing positions by reinstating the prior administration's policy with modifications. It also revokes Executive Order 14003, which protected the federal workforce, and mandates changes to civil service regulations to align with the new order.
• Trump issues executive order to end federal censorship — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism And Restoring Biological Truth To The Federal Government." The order mandates federal agencies to recognize only two biological sexes, male and female, and to enforce sex-based rights and protections accordingly. It directs agencies to revise policies, documents, and communications to reflect this definition and prohibits the use of federal funds to promote gender ideology. The order also rescinds previous executive orders related to gender identity and dissolves the White House Gender Policy Council.
• Trump issues executive order to end federal government weaponization — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship." The order aims to secure the right of Americans to engage in constitutionally protected speech without government interference. It prohibits federal departments and agencies from using resources to abridge free speech and mandates an investigation into past government actions that may have suppressed speech. The Attorney General is tasked with reporting findings and recommending remedial actions.
• Trump Issues Executive Order to Unleash Alaska's Resource Potential — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, aimed at ending the perceived weaponization of the federal government by the previous administration. The order directs the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence to review the activities of federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies over the past four years. They are tasked with identifying instances of misconduct and recommending remedial actions. The order emphasizes accountability for actions that allegedly targeted political opponents and were inconsistent with constitutional and legal standards.
• Trump Issues Executive Order to Unleash American Energy — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, aimed at maximizing the development of Alaska's natural resources. The order directs federal agencies to rescind or amend regulations that hinder resource development in Alaska, particularly on federal and state lands. It emphasizes the importance of developing Alaska's liquified natural gas (LNG) potential and includes specific actions for the Department of the Interior and other agencies to facilitate resource extraction and infrastructure development. The order seeks to reverse restrictions from the previous administration and enhance national economic and energy security.
• Trump issues executive order to withdraw from Paris Agreement — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Unleashing American Energy." The order aims to promote energy exploration and production on federal lands and waters, establish the U.S. as a leading producer of non-fuel minerals, and eliminate regulatory barriers to consumer choice in vehicles and appliances. It revokes several previous executive orders related to climate change and environmental regulations, and mandates a review of agency actions that may burden domestic energy development. The order also calls for expedited permitting processes and prioritizes national security in energy policy.
• Trump rescinds multiple executive orders from previous administration — President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements," directing the United States to withdraw from the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The order mandates the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations to submit formal notification of withdrawal and cease any financial commitments related to the agreement. The order emphasizes prioritizing American economic interests in international environmental agreements and revokes the U.S. International Climate Finance Plan.
• Trump Withdraws U.S. from World Health Organization — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions," which revoked several executive orders from the previous administration. These included orders related to racial equity, COVID-19 response, climate change, and gender identity discrimination, among others. The order aims to reverse policies deemed by Trump as inflationary, illegal, and radical, and to restore what he describes as common sense to the federal government. The order mandates agency heads to cease implementation of the revoked orders and requires reviews of related actions for further rescission or amendment.
• President Trump signed executive order reinstating Schedule F civil service exemption with amendments — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). The order revokes a previous retraction of the withdrawal notice and halts U.S. funding and personnel support to the WHO. It also mandates the Secretary of State to inform the United Nations and WHO leadership of the withdrawal. The order cites the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and financial contributions as reasons for the withdrawal.
• Signed Executive Order 14154 revoking climate and environmental protections and redirecting energy policy toward fossil fuel development — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, reinstating and amending Executive Order 13957 (Schedule F), which creates a new "Schedule Policy/Career" category in the excepted service for federal employees in policy-influencing positions. The order removes civil service protections and adverse action procedures for these employees, allowing their dismissal without the procedural safeguards that apply to competitive service employees. The order revokes Executive Order 14003 and directs the Office of Personnel Management to rescind regulations protecting civil service merit principles.
• Trump signed executive order rescinding 78 prior executive orders and memoranda from the Biden administration — The White House signed Executive Order 14154 on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to review and suspend regulations that burden fossil fuel development, revoke 12 prior executive orders on climate and environmental protection, terminate the American Climate Corps, pause disbursement of Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds, expedite permitting for energy projects, disband the Interagency Working Group on the Social Cost of Greenhouse Gases, and eliminate the "social cost of carbon" from regulatory decisions. The order directs agencies to eliminate EV subsidies and mandates, streamline NEPA review, and prioritize mineral extraction on federal lands.
• White House issued executive order directing review of federal law enforcement and intelligence activities over prior four years — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, rescinding 78 executive orders and presidential memoranda issued between January 20, 2021, and January 14, 2025. The order states the prior administration "embedded deeply unpopular, inflationary, illegal, and radical practices" including DEI initiatives, border policies, and climate regulations. The order directs agency heads to end DEI implementation and instructs the Directors of the Domestic Policy Council and National Economic Council to review remaining actions and recommend additional rescissions within 45 days. The National Security Advisor is directed to review all National Security Memoranda from the prior administration and recommend rescissions within 45 days.
• White House issued executive order redefining sex and gender in federal policy and rescinding prior LGBTQ+ protections — The White House issued an executive order titled "Ending the Weaponization of the Federal Government" on January 20, 2025. The order directs the Attorney General to review enforcement activities across federal departments and agencies over the preceding four years and identify instances of alleged misconduct, and directs the Director of National Intelligence to conduct a parallel review of Intelligence Community activities. Both officials are instructed to submit reports with recommendations for remedial actions. The order asserts the prior administration engaged in "weaponization" of law enforcement and intelligence against political opponents.
• White House issued executive order reforming federal hiring process — The White House issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, establishing federal policy that recognizes only two sexes (male and female) as immutable biological categories and directs all federal agencies to enforce this definition across law, policy, and identification documents. The order directs the Attorney General to reinterpret the Supreme Court's Bostock decision, rescind prior guidance protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, remove gender-identity-affirming materials from federal programs, prohibit federal funding for gender-affirming care in prisons, and enforce sex-based distinctions in detention facilities and shelters. It explicitly rescinds five prior executive orders and dissolves the White House Gender Policy Council.
• White House issued memorandum freezing federal civilian hiring — The White House issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing the development of a Federal Hiring Plan within 120 days. The order states that current federal hiring practices are "broken, insular, and outdated" and claims they improperly prioritize factors such as "equity" and "gender identity." The order directs the plan to prioritize recruitment based on commitment to constitutional values and efficiency, prevent hiring based on race, sex, or religion, implement technical assessments, reduce time-to-hire to under 80 days, and improve candidate communication. It also requires specific agency plans for Senior Executive Service positions in named Cabinet agencies and other entities.
• White House issued presidential memorandum directing emergency price relief measures — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, imposing a freeze on hiring of federal civilian employees across the executive branch, effective immediately. The freeze prohibits filling vacant positions as of noon on January 20, 2025, and creating new positions, with exceptions for military personnel, immigration enforcement, national security, public safety roles, and Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans benefits. The Director of OMB, in consultation with OPM and the USDS, must submit a workforce reduction plan within 90 days; upon issuance, the freeze expires government-wide except for the IRS, where it remains until the Treasury Secretary determines lifting it serves the national interest.
• White House issued presidential memorandum imposing regulatory freeze pending review — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, directing all executive departments and agencies to deliver emergency price relief and increase worker prosperity. The memorandum attributes inflation to Biden-era policies, regulatory burden, and energy restrictions. It orders agencies to lower housing costs, reduce healthcare administrative expenses, eliminate appliance requirements, create employment, and eliminate climate policies affecting food and fuel costs. The Assistant to the President for Economic Policy is directed to report on implementation every 30 days.
• White House issues America First Policy Directive to Secretary of State — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, directing all executive departments and agencies to halt the proposal or issuance of any rule until reviewed and approved by a department or agency head appointed after noon that day. The order requires withdrawal of rules sent to the Federal Register but not yet published, and directs agencies to postpone for 60 days the effective date of published rules or rules not yet in effect, pending review of factual, legal, and policy questions. The OMB Director may exempt rules addressing emergencies or statutory/judicial deadlines.
• White House issues executive order renaming Mount McKinley and Gulf of Mexico — The White House issued a presidential directive on January 20, 2025, instructing the Secretary of State to align the Department of State's policies, programs, personnel, and operations with an "America First foreign policy" that prioritizes American interests. The order directs the Secretary to issue guidance "as soon as practicable" to implement this reorientation. The directive contains standard boilerplate provisions preserving existing agency authority and requiring consistency with applicable law.
• White House issues memorandum directing GSA to recommend federal architecture policy — The White House issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing the restoration of the name "Mount McKinley" to North America's highest peak (renamed Denali in 2015) and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." The order directs the Secretary of the Interior to update federal geographic naming systems within 30 days and instructs agency heads to review and potentially replace appointees to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to align with the stated policy of honoring "visionary and patriotic Americans."
• White House issues memorandum requiring federal employees to return to full-time in-person work — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, directing the Administrator of the General Services Administration to submit recommendations within 60 days on advancing a policy that federal public buildings should be "visually identifiable as civic buildings" and respect "regional, traditional, and classical architectural heritage." The memorandum requires the GSA to consider revisions to the Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture and procedures for community input. It also mandates that the GSA notify the White House at least 30 days before approving any new federal building design that diverges from this policy.
• White House issues presidential memorandum withdrawing all Outer Continental Shelf areas from offshore wind leasing and imposing moratorium on federal wind permitting — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, directing all executive branch department and agency heads to terminate remote work arrangements and require employees to return to work in-person at their duty stations on a full-time basis. The memorandum permits department and agency heads to make exemptions they deem necessary and states it shall be implemented consistent with applicable law.
• White House signed executive order directing reversal of Alaska resource development restrictions and expedited permitting for energy and mineral projects — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 20, 2025, directing the withdrawal of all areas on the Outer Continental Shelf from offshore wind energy leasing, effective January 21, 2025, pending revocation. The memorandum also imposes a temporary cessation of new or renewed federal approvals, permits, leases, and loans for onshore and offshore wind projects pending a comprehensive review. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to place a moratorium on activities under the Lava Ridge Wind Project Record of Decision and to assess environmental and cost impacts of defunct windmills.
• White House signed executive order establishing Department of Government Efficiency — The White House signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to rescind, revoke, or amend regulations and policies restricting resource development in Alaska implemented between January 2021 and January 2025. The order mandates expedited permitting for energy, mineral, timber, and seafood development on federal and state lands; prioritizes liquefied natural gas infrastructure; withdraws protections in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge; places temporary moratoriums on recent environmental reviews; and directs the Secretary of the Interior to reinstate prior oil and gas leasing decisions and rescind conservation rules in the National Petroleum Reserve and national forests.
• White House signed executive order on free speech and federal censorship — The White House signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, establishing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to modernize federal technology and software. The order renames the United States Digital Service as the United States DOGE Service, establishes a USDS Administrator reporting to the White House Chief of Staff, and creates a temporary organization set to terminate July 4, 2026. Each federal agency must establish DOGE Teams of at least four employees within 30 days. The order directs USDS to conduct a Software Modernization Initiative and grants USDS full access to unclassified agency records and IT systems.
• White House signed executive order terminating federal DEI programs and positions — President Trump signed an executive order titled "Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship" on January 20, 2025. The order asserts that the previous administration censored Americans' speech by pressuring social media companies to moderate or deplatform content, and directs all federal departments and agencies to cease any conduct that would "unconstitutionally abridge" free speech. It instructs the Attorney General to investigate federal censorship activities over the prior four years and submit recommendations for remedial action.
• — President Trump signed an executive order directing the termination of all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and related programs across the federal government. The order instructs the Office of Management and Budget, Attorney General, and Office of Personnel Management to coordinate the elimination of DEI offices, positions, equity action plans, and related mandates within 60 days. Agencies must report on existing DEI expenditures and assess operational impacts. The order states that federal employment practices shall reward "individual initiative, skills, performance, and hard work" and shall not consider DEI factors.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order on Border Security — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14165 on January 20, 2025, directing the deployment of physical barriers and personnel to secure the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the resumption of the Migrant Protection Protocols, adjustments to parole policies, and prioritization of prosecuting border-related offenses. It aims to deter illegal immigration and enhance border security through various measures, including international cooperation and DNA identification requirements.
• National emergency declared at southern border — President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border of the United States, citing threats from cartels, criminal gangs, and illicit narcotics. The proclamation authorizes the use of the Armed Forces to support the Department of Homeland Security in securing the border, including constructing additional physical barriers and deploying personnel. The proclamation revokes a previous termination of the emergency and requires reports on actions taken and conditions at the border.
• President Trump declares a national energy emergency — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14156, declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to use emergency authorities to enhance domestic energy production, transportation, and infrastructure. It aims to address high energy prices and vulnerabilities in energy supply, particularly in the Northeast and West Coast regions. The order invokes the National Emergencies Act and the Defense Production Act to expedite energy-related projects and infrastructure improvements.
• Presidential Proclamation on Border Security — President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation declaring an ongoing invasion at the southern border of the United States. The proclamation suspends the entry of aliens involved in this invasion and imposes restrictions on their access to immigration provisions. The President directed the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, to take actions necessary to repel and remove aliens engaged in the invasion.
• Trump declares national border emergency — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border. This order allows for the deployment of US troops to the southern border to assist the Department of Homeland Security in controlling immigration. The declaration is part of a series of executive orders aimed at cracking down on immigration and unauthorized border crossings, despite a recent decrease in such crossings. The move has sparked controversy and is expected to face legal challenges.
• Trump declares national emergency at southern border — President Trump signed a national emergency declaration concerning the southern border, framing foreigners as national security threats. This declaration is part of a series of executive orders aimed at restricting immigration and increasing border security. The emergency declaration allows for the use of military resources to enforce border control and aims to achieve "complete operational control" of the border, defined as zero unlawful entries.
• Trump declares national energy emergency — On his first day back in office, Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency, allowing his administration to expedite permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure. This declaration is part of a broader agenda to increase oil and gas production, including lifting restrictions on drilling in Alaska and resuming liquefied natural gas exports. The move is expected to face legal challenges due to questions about the legitimacy of the emergency. The declaration aims to boost national security and job creation by increasing natural resource production.
• Trump declares national energy emergency to bypass environmental permitting rules — On his first day back in office (January 2025), Trump declared a national "energy emergency" to accelerate permitting for oil and gas projects and override environmental regulations. The declaration claimed to address a purported energy crisis, though the U.S. produces more oil and gas than any other nation. Fifteen Democratic state attorneys general sued to halt the declaration, arguing it unlawfully bypassed normal permitting procedures and endangered natural resources and drinking water standards.
• Trump declared emergency at southern border and requested Insurrection Act advice — When Trump declared an emergency at the southern border on January 20, he ordered the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security to advise him whether they thought it necessary to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act. That act allows a president during times of civil unrest to use the military against U.S. citizens. The article notes that this action, combined with the administration's apparent willingness to deport people without due process, has raised alarm among Americans about the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act.
• Executive Order Clarifying Military's Role in Border Protection — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order clarifying the military's role in protecting the territorial integrity of the United States. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan, assigning the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) the mission to secure the borders against unlawful mass migration, narcotics trafficking, and other criminal activities. The order emphasizes the military's role in maintaining national sovereignty and security along the borders, citing a national emergency at the southern border.
• Trump Declares National Energy Emergency — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to utilize emergency authorities to enhance the identification, leasing, production, transportation, refining, and generation of domestic energy resources. It emphasizes the need for a reliable and diversified energy supply to support national security and economic stability. The order also calls for expedited infrastructure projects and emergency regulations to address energy supply issues, particularly in the Northeast and West Coast regions of the United States.
• Trump issues executive order to secure U.S. borders — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Securing Our Borders." The order mandates the construction of physical barriers and deployment of personnel along the southern border to achieve complete operational control. It also calls for the resumption of the Migrant Protection Protocols, adjustments to parole policies, and increased cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The order aims to deter illegal immigration, prioritize the prosecution of border-related offenses, and enhance international cooperation to secure the border.
• President Trump declared a national energy emergency under the National Emergencies Act — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to use all available lawful authorities—including emergency powers under the Defense Production Act and eminent domain—to accelerate energy identification, leasing, production, transportation, refining, and generation on federal lands. It instructs agencies to expedite infrastructure projects, invoke emergency permitting under the Clean Water Act, and apply emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act to facilitate energy development. The order establishes quarterly convening of the Endangered Species Act Committee to review exemption applications and identify regulatory obstacles to energy infrastructure.
• Trump declares national emergency at southern border and invokes military deployment authority — President Trump issued a proclamation declaring a national emergency at the southern border, invoking the National Emergencies Act and directing the Secretary of Defense to deploy Armed Forces units, including the Ready Reserve and National Guard, to support Department of Homeland Security operations. The proclamation authorizes construction of additional physical barriers, directs waiver of FAA and FCC regulations for unmanned systems within 5 miles of the border, and requires revision of use-of-force policies. It revokes the prior emergency termination proclamation and directs reports within 30 and 90 days, the latter to include recommendations on invoking the Insurrection Act.
• Trump issued proclamation declaring southern border "invasion" and suspending entry of migrants — President Trump signed a proclamation on January 20, 2025, declaring the southern border situation an "invasion" under Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution. The proclamation suspends physical entry of aliens "engaged in the invasion" across the southern border, restricts their access to asylum provisions (Section 208 of the INA), and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to "repel, repatriate, or remove" such aliens. The order applies to aliens who fail to provide medical, criminal history, or background information before entry. Trump asserts inherent constitutional authority to take these actions independent of statutory immigration law.
• Trump declared national emergency at southern border — On January 20, 2025, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, allowing federal funds to be used to build a border wall without Congressional approval. This declaration is part of Trump's ongoing efforts to enhance border security and control immigration. The move bypasses legislative oversight and has sparked legal and political challenges.
• Executive Order on Military's Role in Border Protection — On January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order declaring an emergency at the southern US border along with several immigration-related policies. Trump stated in his inauguration speech "All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came." The declaration paves the way to send US troops to the border and fulfills campaign promises for hardline immigration policies. Immigrant communities have braced for Trump's promised "largest deportation program in American history."
• White House signed executive order assigning military border enforcement mission to USNORTHCOM — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14167, clarifying the military's role in protecting U.S. territorial integrity. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan, assigning USNORTHCOM the mission to secure borders against unlawful migration and criminal activities. The order emphasizes the military's role in maintaining national sovereignty and security along the southern border.
• Trump declares national emergency at US-Mexico border — The White House signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan within 10 days to assign U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) a mission to "seal the borders" and repel what the order characterizes as "forms of invasion" including unlawful mass migration, narcotics trafficking, and human smuggling. The order also directs USNORTHCOM to develop contingency and campaign plans for steady-state southern border security operations.
• Trump plans to declare border emergency — President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency at the southern US border. This action is part of a series of hardline immigration policies, including plans to deploy US troops to the border and initiate mass deportations.
• President Trump signs executive order declaring national emergency at southern border — President Trump declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, citing the need to halt illegal entry and return undocumented migrants. This declaration is part of a broader immigration crackdown and includes designating criminal cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations." The move is expected to lead to increased military presence at the border.
• Trump to deploy troops to US-Mexico border — President Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency, allowing his administration to fast-track permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure. This declaration is part of a broader effort to roll back climate policies and promote fossil fuel production. The order is likely to face legal challenges due to its environmental implications.
• Trump sends troops to southern border — Donald Trump plans to declare a national emergency at the US border, using Title 42 to trigger public health emergency powers similar to those used during the Covid pandemic. This declaration aims to prevent migrants from entering or staying in the country. However, this approach faces a significant hurdle as only the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can declare such emergencies.
• Department of Defense orders military personnel to the border — President Trump signed an executive order on January 22, 2025, invoking the National Emergencies Act regarding the southern border. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to deploy additional Armed Forces and National Guard personnel to the border, and instructs the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to complete the border wall and expand air mission flexibility. The fact sheet characterizes the action as a response to what it claims are record illegal immigration encounters and associated harms.
• Trump declares national emergency at the southern border — The Pentagon is preparing to deploy up to 1,500 active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border as part of President Donald Trump's new immigration enforcement strategy. This move is part of a series of executive actions targeting immigration, including the suspension of the refugee resettlement program. The deployment, authorized by acting defense secretary Robert Salesses, will add to the 2,500 army reserve and national guard soldiers already supporting federal law enforcement at the border. The exact role of the troops remains unclear, but the deployment marks a significant militarization of the border.
• Trump deploys military to southern border — The Trump administration deployed 1,000 soldiers and 500 Marines to the southern U.S. border. The Marines were redirected from California, where they were on standby for wildfire threats. This deployment is being treated as a military operation, with troops armed and prepared for engagement. The move comes despite border crossings being at their lowest in over four years.
• — The Department of Defense announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border, joining an existing contingent of 2,500 troops. This deployment is part of Trump's directive to make homeland security a core mission of the agency, which includes providing support for deportations.
• — President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, despite lower border crossings compared to previous years. He directed the Defense Department and Homeland Security to consider invoking the Insurrection Act, which would allow military deployment to suppress domestic unrest. This declaration follows his push to eliminate a bipartisan immigration measure aimed at expediting asylum hearings.
• — Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border of the United States, joining 2,500 already present. This action follows Trump's declaration of a national emergency at the border and raises concerns about the militarization of domestic issues.

Supporting reports

• Trump cancels asylum appointment system — On January 20, 2025, the Trump administration canceled the CBP One app, an online system that allowed asylum seekers to schedule appointments with border agents. This cancellation left many asylum seekers stranded and without access to the process.
• Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses Statement on DOD Actions Responding to President Trump's Executive Order on Securing our Border — The Department of War published a release on 2025-01-22 through its releases channel. The department's own account of it reads: "Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses issued a statement on DOD actions responding to President Trump's executive order on securing the border."
• Satellite Transition Impacts Some AFN Customers in the Pacific — The Department of War published a release on 2025-01-22 through its releases channel. The department's own account of it reads: "An upcoming satellite change for the four-channel AFN TV programming package will impact some audience members in the Pacific who use a satellite dish and decoder to get their AFN service."
• Trump to deploy troops to US-Mexico border — The Pentagon is preparing to deploy up to 1,500 active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border as part of President Donald Trump's new immigration enforcement strategy. This move is part of a series of executive actions targeting immigration, including the suspension of the refugee resettlement program. The deployment, authorized by acting defense secretary Robert Salesses, will add to the 2,500 army reserve and national guard soldiers already supporting federal law enforcement at the border. The exact role of the troops remains unclear, but the deployment marks a significant militarization of the border.
• Trump sends troops to southern border — The Trump administration deployed 1,000 soldiers and 500 Marines to the southern U.S. border. The Marines were redirected from California, where they were on standby for wildfire threats. This deployment is being treated as a military operation, with troops armed and prepared for engagement. The move comes despite border crossings being at their lowest in over four years.
• Background Briefing on DOD Actions Responding to President Trump's Executive Order on Securing our Border — The Department of War published a transcript on 2025-01-23 through its transcripts channel. The department's own account of it reads: "A senior defense official and a senior military official conducted a background briefing on the Department of Defense deployment to the southwest border."
• Department of Defense orders military personnel to the border — The Department of Defense announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border, joining an existing contingent of 2,500 troops. This deployment is part of Trump's directive to make homeland security a core mission of the agency, which includes providing support for deportations.
• Trump deploys military to southern border — Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border of the United States, joining 2,500 already present. This action follows Trump's declaration of a national emergency at the border and raises concerns about the militarization of domestic issues.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order Designating Cartels as Terrorist Organizations — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14157, designating certain international cartels and organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists. This order aims to address the national security threat posed by these entities, which are involved in violence and illegal activities across the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal officials, to recommend designations under the Immigration and Nationality Act and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
• Trump designates drug cartels as terrorist organizations — President Trump signed an executive order designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This designation aims to enhance the US government's ability to combat drug trafficking and related violence. The order is part of a broader strategy to address security concerns at the US-Mexico border and is expected to have significant implications for US foreign policy and law enforcement.
• Trump designates cartels as terrorist organizations — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order designating certain international cartels and other organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists. This order aims to address the national security threat posed by these groups, which are involved in activities such as drug trafficking and violence across the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal officials, to recommend designations under the Immigration and Nationality Act and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The order also declares a national emergency to address these threats.
• White House signed executive order designating cartels and transnational organizations as foreign terrorist organizations and specially designated global terrorists — The White House signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to recommend within 14 days the designation of international cartels, Tren de Aragua, and MS-13 as Foreign Terrorist Organizations under the Immigration and Nationality Act and/or Specially Designated Global Terrorists under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The order declares a national emergency under IEEPA and directs the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to prepare for potential invocation of the Alien Enemies Act. The order characterizes cartels as posing national-security threats comparable to foreign terrorist organizations and states they functionally control illegal border traffic and operate as quasi-governmental entities in parts of Mexico.
• Designation of Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14175, designating Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This action, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, aims to curb the group's capabilities and operations, which threaten U.S. personnel and regional stability. The order mandates the Secretary of State to report on the designation process and take appropriate actions, including reviewing USAID's partners in Yemen for any ties to Ansar Allah.
• Designation of Ansar Allah As A Foreign Terrorist Organization — On January 22, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order designating Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This order initiates a process under the Immigration and Nationality Act to formally label the group as a terrorist organization due to its attacks on U.S. Navy warships and civilian infrastructure in the Middle East. The order mandates the Secretary of State to report on the designation and take appropriate actions, including reviewing USAID's partnerships in Yemen to ensure no support is provided to Ansar Allah.
• White House initiates Foreign Terrorist Organization designation process for Ansar Allah (Houthis) — President Trump signed a presidential action on January 22, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to initiate a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation process for Ansar Allah (the Houthis) within 30 days, followed by formal designation within 15 days thereafter. The order cites Houthi attacks on U.S. Navy vessels, civilian infrastructure in the Middle East, commercial shipping in the Red Sea, and Israeli targets. It directs the State Department to consult with intelligence and Treasury officials, and mandates USAID to review and terminate relationships with entities that have made payments to or are controlled by Ansar Allah or have criticized counter-Houthi efforts.
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order re-designating Houthis as foreign terrorist organization — The White House published a fact sheet on January 22, 2025, announcing that President Trump signed an executive order directing the re-designation of Ansar Allah (the Houthis) as a foreign terrorist organization. The order reverses the Biden administration's removal of the designation in 2021. The fact sheet states the order directs the Secretary of State to recommend re-designation within 30 days and instructs USAID and State to review UN partners, NGOs, and contractors in Yemen, with the President to direct USAID to end relationships with entities that have made payments to the Houthis or opposed counter-Houthi efforts.