Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Senate Democrats boycott vote on Vought's nomination — Senate Democrats boycotted a vote to advance Russell Vought's nomination to lead the Office of Management and Budget, citing his unfitness for office. Despite their absence, Republican members of the Senate budget committee proceeded with the vote, resulting in an 11-0 decision to move Vought's confirmation to the full Senate. Democrats criticized Vought's role in a recent federal grant funding freeze, which was ordered and then rescinded within days, potentially affecting programs like Head Start and Meals on Wheels.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs order dismantling Department of Education — Trump signed an order that would begin the process of dismantling the Department of Education. The order attempts to circumvent the need to obtain congressional approval to formally close a federal department. Trump stated "My administration will take all lawful steps to shut down the department. We're going to shut it down and shut it down as quickly as possible. It's doing us no good."

Supporting reports

• Trump expands Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency — Trump signed an order expanding the power of Elon Musk's so-called "department of government efficiency." The order calls for a "transformation" in federal spending on contracts, grants, and loans by requiring a centralized payment system to be monitored by Musk's team. The order states it "commences a transformation in Federal spending on contracts, grants, and loans to ensure Government spending is transparent and Government employees are accountable to the American public."

Supporting reports

• Trump administration's grant and loan freeze blocked by judge — On January 27, 2025, a judge blocked the Trump administration's attempt to freeze all federal grants and loans. This move was part of the administration's efforts to cut government spending. The freeze would have affected various federal programs and services, but the judicial intervention has temporarily halted its implementation. The administration's actions have been criticized for potentially causing disruptions in services that rely on federal funding.
• Federal judge issues emergency stay on Trump's order — A federal judge issued an emergency stay on President Trump's order to freeze federal grants, loans, and payments. This stay is intended to preserve the status quo while various lawsuits challenging the legality of the order are heard. The decision temporarily halts the implementation of Trump's directive, which had caused significant disruption and concern across multiple sectors.
• Federal judge blocks Trump’s halt of federal grants and loans — A federal judge, Loren AliKhan, issued an administrative stay temporarily blocking the Trump administration's freeze on federal grants and loans. This decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by non-profits and small businesses, arguing that the freeze would have devastating impacts on various sectors, including education, healthcare, and disaster relief. The stay pauses the administration's action until Monday, preventing immediate disruption to programs relied upon by millions of Americans.
• Court temporarily blocks Trump's funding freeze — A federal judge, Loren AliKhan, has temporarily blocked a directive from President Donald Trump that aimed to pause federal financial assistance, including loans and grants. The directive, issued by Trump's acting head of the Office of Management and Budget, Matthew Vaeth, was intended to halt activities related to federal financial assistance as part of an ideological review. The court order prevents the directive from being implemented until at least February 3, following arguments from advocacy groups that the freeze would harm programs in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Supporting reports

• Stephen Miller directs FBI agent purge targeting Trump investigators — According to a new book by journalists Carol Leonnig and Aaron Davis, Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff, orchestrated the removal of FBI agents who had investigated Donald Trump. Miller pressured Emil Bove, acting deputy attorney general, to obtain lists of agents involved in the January 6 and classified documents investigations, with the explicit goal of firing them to satisfy Trump's desire for revenge. FBI Acting Director Brian Driscoll resisted providing names, citing the bureau's protection of agent anonymity and internal misconduct procedures. On January 31, Bove demanded termination of seven senior leaders and a list of all agents involved in the January 6 investigation by February 4. Multiple executive assistant directors departed, and Driscoll ultimately provided employee ID numbers instead of names.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration halts federal grants and loans — On January 27, the Trump administration ordered a pause on all federal government grants and loans, requiring that they ban diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This directive affects a wide range of federal programs and funding.
• Trump freezes federal grants, loans, and payments — President Trump ordered an immediate freeze on federal grants, loans, and payments to millions of Americans, citing a need to review their appropriateness and potential ties to DEI initiatives. This action, which affects funds previously allocated by Congress, has been criticized as illegal under the 1974 Impound Control Act. The freeze has caused widespread confusion and concern, with reports of Medicaid portals being down nationwide and various federal programs in disarray.
• Trump administration freezes federal funding for DEI and environmental programs — The Trump administration announced a freeze on federal grants targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and environmental initiatives, described as "illegal DEI programs" and "green new scam" initiatives. This funding pause, set to activate on the evening of January 28, 2025, could impact trillions of dollars in grants and loans, affecting programs such as school meals for low-income students and wildfire preparedness. The Office of Management and Budget has requested details from federal agencies about over 2,600 programs that could be affected.
• White House rescinds spending freeze on federal loans and grants — The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded a policy that temporarily paused federal loans and grants, reversing a decision made earlier in the week. This policy had initially halted funding for various programs, including Medicaid. The rescission followed a federal judge's restraining order against the funding freeze, which was issued due to conflicting messages from the White House. Despite the rescission, the White House press secretary stated that the executive orders on federal funding remain in effect.
• Trump administration memo orders freeze on federal financial assistance — The Trump administration issued a memo directing federal agencies to freeze the disbursement of all federal financial assistance, effective January 30, 2025. The memo, authored by acting OMB Director Matthew J. Vaeth, requires agencies to submit detailed information about their financial assistance programs by February 10, 2025. The freeze will remain until the Office of Management and Budget reviews and approves each program. The memo excludes direct assistance to individuals, such as Social Security and Medicare. The stated purpose is to prevent federal resources from advancing certain policies deemed wasteful by the administration.
• Trump administration rescinds federal funding freeze memo — The Trump administration rescinded a memo that froze federal funding after it caused widespread chaos and legal challenges. The initial freeze had paused federal grants and loans, affecting public programs and government spending.
• Case update — National Council of Nonprofits v. Office of Management and Budget (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00239 — The Government submitted a Notice that the OMB had rescinded the challenged memo. On the same day, the White House Press Secretary stated , “This is not a rescission of the federal funding freeze. It is simply a rescission of the OMB memo. Why? To end any confusion created by the court's injunction. The President's EO's on federal funding remain in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented.”
• Case update — State of New York v. Trump (D.R.I.) 1:25-cv-00039 — The Government submitted a notice that the OMB had rescinded the challenged memo. On the same day, the White House Press Secretary stated , “This is not a rescission of the federal funding freeze. It is simply a rescission of the OMB memo. Why? To end any confusion created by the court's injunction. The President's EO's on federal funding remain in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented.”
• Trump administration sued over funding freeze — The Trump administration faced a lawsuit from multiple states over a funding freeze memo. Despite rescinding the memo, the administration argued in court for the lawsuit's dismissal. However, a judge ordered the release of funds, citing conflicting statements from the administration's press secretary, which suggested the freeze was still in effect.
• Reports of Medicaid portal outages following funding freeze — Following the Trump administration's memo to freeze federal financial assistance, reports emerged of Medicaid portal outages across all 50 states. Senator Ron Wyden confirmed the outages, describing them as a "blatant attempt to rip away health insurance from millions of Americans." The White House attributed the outages to technical issues, but the Medicaid website cited delays due to executive orders on grant payments. Medicaid provides health insurance to nearly a fifth of all Americans.
• Trump administration freezes federal funding — The Trump administration announced a freeze on all federal funding and grants, claiming it would ensure the removal of "Marxist" diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This decision affects various programs, including Meals on Wheels and Medicaid, which are essential for many Americans. The Office of Management and Budget later issued a memo to rescind the freeze, but the press secretary contradicted this, indicating the cuts were still in effect. The situation has led to significant public outcry and legal scrutiny.
• Trump issues executive order freezing government grants — Former President Trump issued an executive order freezing government grants, which was described as illegal and a direct assault on congressional authority. The order was rescinded after two days due to public outrage and pressure from lawmakers. The freeze caused significant disruption and uncertainty for millions of Americans dependent on government benefits and payments. The swift public and political response highlighted the power of civic engagement in countering executive overreach.
• Trump’s administration freezes federal grants — The Office of Management and Budget under Trump sent out a memo freezing all federal grants and loans without prior approval from the White House, leading to concerns about a constitutional crisis.
• Court issues injunction against Trump Administration — U.S. District Court Judge Jack McConnell issued an injunction against the Trump Administration, preventing it from impounding federal funds intended for states. The court found that the Executive's pause in disbursement of federal funding would cause irreparable harm to states' ability to provide vital services. The injunction ensures that federal financial assistance to states remains uninterrupted.
• Preliminary injunction ruling — State of New York v. Trump (D.R.I.) 1:25-cv-00039 — Judge McConnell issued a temporary restraining order against the OMB policy to allow the states to file their motion for a preliminary injunction. Judge McConnell's order notes that the case is not moot because “the alleged rescission of the OMB Directive was in name only and may have been issued simply to defeat the jurisdiction of the courts.” The judge also wrote, "the States are likely to succeed on the merits of some, if not all, their claims."

Supporting reports

• Trump DOJ fires prosecutors involved in investigations against him — The Department of Justice, under Acting Attorney General McHenry, terminated several career prosecutors who were involved in investigations of former President Trump. This action is framed as part of an effort to end the "weaponization of government" and aligns with Trump's agenda. The firings raise concerns about the independence of the DOJ and its role in upholding the rule of law.
• Trump administration fires DOJ lawyers in criminal cases — The Trump administration fired more than a dozen DOJ lawyers involved in two criminal cases against the president. This action raises concerns about the independence of the Justice Department and potential interference in legal proceedings.
• Trump justice department fires officials linked to Jack Smith — On January 27, 2025, Acting Attorney General James McHenry fired over a dozen federal prosecutors who had worked on criminal cases against Donald Trump. These prosecutors were part of Special Counsel Jack Smith's team, which had charged Trump in two cases related to mishandling classified documents and attempting to overturn the 2020 election results. The firings were justified by McHenry as necessary because the prosecutors could not be trusted to implement the president's agenda. This move is part of broader personnel changes within the Justice Department under the Trump administration.
• Trump fires federal prosecutors involved in his prosecutions — On January 27, Trump’s acting attorney general fired more than a dozen federal prosecutors who were involved in the criminal prosecutions against Trump. The official stated that the acting attorney general “does not trust these officials to assist in faithfully implementing the President’s agenda.”
• White House directed firing of special counsel prosecutors — The Justice Department, following instructions from the White House, fired more than a dozen federal prosecutors involved in criminal prosecutions against Donald Trump. The firings were directed by the acting Attorney General, James McHenry, and were linked to a memo from the White House personnel office. This action has raised concerns about the independence of the Justice Department and its potential use as an extension of the White House. The prosecutors were dismissed due to their roles in prosecuting Trump, which was seen as incompatible with the president's agenda.

Supporting reports

• Florida Legislature rejects Desantis's migrant deportation plan — The Florida House and Senate rejected Governor Ron Desantis's request for a special session to enact migrant deportation policies. Instead, they appointed Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson to oversee state deportation efforts in coordination with the Trump Administration. This decision sidelines Desantis and aligns with Trump's immigration strategy, reflecting internal Republican dynamics and potential impacts on Desantis's political ambitions.
• Florida legislature passes Trump Act — The Florida legislature passed the Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy (Trump) Act, which includes provisions to eliminate in-state tuition waivers for undocumented students. The act, modified with White House assistance, is part of a broader immigration agenda. Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the act as insufficiently stringent compared to his proposals and has promised to veto it. The passage of the act reflects ongoing legislative efforts to reshape immigration policy in Florida.
• Florida House Speaker ends special legislative session — Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez abruptly ended a special legislative session on immigration that Governor Ron DeSantis had summoned. The session was intended to address immigration measures, including the controversial Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy (Trump) Act. Perez's action came amid tensions between DeSantis and Republican lawmakers over immigration policies, including the proposed removal of in-state tuition waivers for undocumented students. The session's abrupt end highlights the ongoing power struggle within Florida's Republican Party.

Supporting reports

• Kristi Noem confirmed as Secretary of Homeland Security — Kristi Noem, the former governor of South Dakota, was confirmed by the US Senate as the Secretary of Homeland Security. The confirmation vote was 59-34, with support from seven Democrats. Noem will oversee agencies such as US Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Her confirmation aligns with President Trump's plans to enforce stricter immigration policies. Noem has pledged to execute the president's orders and has previously supported sending national guard troops to the border.
• Noem confirmed by Senate as DHS Secretary — On January 25, 2025, the Senate confirmed Kristi Noem as Homeland Security Secretary by a vote of 59–34, with some bipartisan support. She was sworn in the same day and resigned as South Dakota governor to assume the position. Within days, she joined federal immigration enforcement operations, including raids targeting undocumented immigrants in New York.
• Kristi Noem confirmed as DHS Secretary — Kristi Noem was confirmed as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Her confirmation was supported by seven Democratic senators, despite concerns about her stance on immigration and other security issues. Noem's appointment is part of Trump's broader strategy to reshape the federal government with loyalists.
• Senate confirms Pete Hegseth as defense secretary — The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the Secretary of Defense, with Vice President J.D. Vance breaking a 50–50 tie. Hegseth's lack of relevant experience and past controversies raised concerns, but Republican senators ultimately supported his nomination. This marks a significant shift in the qualifications expected for such a critical position.

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

• Trump threatens to abolish FEMA — Former President Trump threatened to abolish the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), suggesting that states should handle their own disaster responses. This proposal raises concerns about the federal government's role in disaster management and support for states during emergencies.
• Trump suggests paring back FEMA — Donald Trump has suggested reducing or dismantling the federal response to major disasters, which would shift the burden of disaster aid to individual states. This proposal could significantly impact Republican-leaning states that have historically received substantial FEMA assistance. Trump criticized FEMA's effectiveness and expressed a preference for states to handle their own disaster responses, with federal support limited to financial aid. This move aligns with the Project 2025 manifesto and could have severe implications for states with limited resources to manage disasters independently.
• Trump announces intent to abolish FEMA — Former President Donald Trump announced his intention to abolish the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) during visits to disaster sites in North Carolina and California. He criticized FEMA's effectiveness and suggested that states should handle disaster relief independently. Trump proposed redirecting federal relief funds to private organizations like Samaritan’s Purse.
• Executive Order Establishes FEMA Review Council — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14180, establishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council. The Council will assess FEMA's effectiveness and recommend improvements. It includes up to 20 members, co-chaired by the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense. The Council will evaluate FEMA's disaster response capabilities and suggest reforms to enhance national resilience. A report is due to the President within 180 days of the Council's first meeting.
• Trump plans to establish a council of FEMA advisers — President Donald Trump announced plans to sign an executive order to establish a council of FEMA advisers. This council is intended to examine the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to address issues of corruption, incompetence, and bureaucracy. The move signals Trump's intent to potentially reshape FEMA's role in national disaster response by redirecting more disaster-management responsibilities and federal funding to state governments. This announcement was made during Trump's national disaster recovery tour, which included visits to hurricane and fire-affected areas.
• White House established Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council — President Donald Trump issued an executive order establishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council on January 24, 2025. The Council is tasked with assessing FEMA's effectiveness and impartiality in disaster response, amid concerns of political bias and inefficiency. Comprising up to 20 members, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense, the Council will provide recommendations for improvements to FEMA. The Council is expected to produce a report within 180 days of its first public meeting, which must occur within 90 days of the order.
• — The White House issued an executive order establishing a Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council composed of up to 20 members, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense as co-chairs, to assess FEMA's disaster response efficacy and recommend structural changes. The order directs the Council to evaluate FEMA's performance over the previous four years, compare federal responses with state and local alternatives, and submit a report within 180 days of its first public meeting, which must occur within 90 days of the order's issuance.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs executive order to combat 'anti-Christian bias' — President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a taskforce to address what he claims is "anti-Christian bias" within federal agencies, including the FBI and IRS. The order empowers US Attorney General Pam Bondi to lead efforts to prosecute anti-Christian violence and vandalism in government institutions. This move is part of Trump's broader strategy to strengthen his alliance with Christian conservatives, following actions such as pardoning anti-abortion activists and banning the legal recognition of transgender people by the US government.

Supporting reports

• Ross Vought challenges Impound Control Act of 1974 — Trump Budget Director Ross Vought intends to challenge the constitutionality of the Impound Control Act of 1974. The act prevents a president from impounding or refusing to release funds approved by Congress. Repealing it would allow the president to seize funds allocated by Congress, effectively granting a line-item veto on spending bills.

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

• FCC reopened investigation into CBS's Harris interview as leverage in merger approval — On January 22, 2025, FCC Chairman Carr reopened an investigation into whether CBS had deceptively edited an interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris on 60 Minutes in October 2024. The investigation was launched as Paramount (CBS's owner) faced a defamation lawsuit from Trump over the Harris interview and was seeking FCC approval for its merger with Skydance. In February 2025, the New York Times reported that Paramount executives hoped settling the lawsuit with Trump would facilitate FCC merger approval. The lawsuit was settled on July 1, 2025, for $16 million, and the FCC approved the merger three weeks later, conditioning approval on CBS hiring an ombudsman and shutting down all DEI programs.

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 Revoking DEI Policies — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14173, revoking several previous executive orders related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The order mandates federal agencies to terminate discriminatory DEI practices and enforce civil-rights laws. It also directs the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs to cease promoting diversity and affirmative action among federal contractors. The order aims to restore merit-based opportunities and eliminate identity-based preferences in federal and private sectors.
• Trump revokes Equal Employment Opportunity Act — President Trump signed an executive order revoking the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, which had prohibited discrimination against protected classes in employment by federal contractors since 1965. This action removes longstanding protections against employment discrimination for those working with federal contractors.
• Trump issues executive order to end DEI policies — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 21, 2025, titled "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." The order directs federal agencies to terminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies deemed discriminatory and illegal. It revokes several previous executive orders related to diversity and inclusion, including Executive Order 12898 and Executive Order 13583. The order also mandates federal contractors to comply with civil-rights laws and prohibits DEI practices that violate these laws. The Office of Management and Budget is tasked with revising government-wide processes to eliminate DEI references.
• Trump administration targets DEI programs — On January 21, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across various sectors, including federal agencies, corporations, and educational institutions. The order claims these programs constitute "illegal discrimination" and mandates federal agencies to identify potential civil compliance investigations into organizations implementing DEI initiatives. The order suggests that DEI programs discriminate against white men, framing them as a threat to traditional American values. This move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to dismantle DEI initiatives.
• President Trump signed executive order terminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in federal government and directing enforcement against private-sector DEI practices. — On January 21, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." The order revokes four prior executive orders and one presidential memorandum related to environmental justice, federal workforce diversity, and national security workforce diversity. It directs the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs to cease promoting diversity and affirmative action among federal contractors. The order requires OMB to remove DEI references from federal acquisition and contracting procedures. It directs the Attorney General to submit a 120-day report recommending enforcement actions against private-sector DEI programs, identifying up to nine potential civil compliance investigations per agency targeting corporations, nonprofits, foundations, bar associations, medical associations, and universities. The order also directs joint guidance from the Attorney General and Secretary of Education to educational institutions on compliance with the Supreme Court's Students for Fair Admissions decision.
• White House issued fact sheet on executive order terminating DEI programs in federal workforce and contracting — The White House published a fact sheet on January 22, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump that the document states terminates "diversity, equity, and inclusion" (DEI) programs in the federal workforce and federal contracting. The order claims to revoke Executive Order 11246, bar the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs from workforce-balancing requirements, and direct agencies to investigate private-sector DEI practices. The fact sheet asserts the order enforces civil rights statutes and advances "colorblind equality before the law."
• Trump signs executive orders affecting healthcare access — Within his first 48 hours back in office, Donald Trump signed several executive orders that repeal Biden-era directives expanding healthcare access for lower-income and middle-class Americans. These orders are expected to impact the medical insurance coverage of approximately 20 million people, affecting aspects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) such as eligibility requirements and federal subsidies. The repealed orders include those aimed at reducing prescription drug costs and expanding Medicaid coverage. The actions are anticipated to create more barriers to healthcare access and increase costs for remaining insurance options.
• Trump signs executive orders ending federal DEI programs — President Donald Trump signed two executive orders targeting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) programs within the federal government. The first order mandates the closure of all DEIA offices and initiatives within 60 days, reversing previous executive actions by Joe Biden. The second order overturns longstanding equity policies, including those from the civil rights era. Federal employees in DEIA roles were placed on paid leave as agencies begin to dismantle these programs. The orders reflect Trump's stance against DEI, which he claims promotes discrimination against historically dominant groups.
• US State Department suspends DEI training materials — The US State Department's Foreign Service Institute has suspended access to over 1,200 training courses, including more than 2,100 items related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This action, effective January 22, 2025, follows recent executive orders and marks a significant change in the department's educational policy. The suspension includes the removal of DEI-focused courses from the department's learning platform and a freeze on new enrollments for certain courses. The review is ongoing, and some courses may not return to the catalog.
• Trump signed executive orders reversing DEI efforts — On January 23, 2025, Donald Trump signed two executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts within the federal government. The first order terminates DEI programs initiated under Joe Biden, while the second broadly bans DEI activities, overturning past executive orders, including one from Lyndon B. Johnson. These orders grant the Trump administration broad authority to eliminate DEI measures and require federal employees to report colleagues furthering DEI efforts. The legality of these orders may be challenged in court.
• Trump repeals Executive Order 11246 — President Donald Trump issued an executive order repealing Executive Order 11246, originally signed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965. This order had prohibited government contractors with contracts over $10,000 from discriminating in hiring or employment based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Trump's repeal is part of an initiative to end what he describes as "radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing." The repeal could hinder opportunities for minorities and women in government contracting, as it removes requirements for contractors to demonstrate non-discrimination and gather workforce composition data.

Supporting reports

• DNC intervenes in GOP's ballot challenge case — The Democratic National Committee intervened in the case brought by the RNC and North Carolina GOP, asking a court to block their request to discard thousands of ballots. The DNC cited state and federal laws that protect the votes of eligible voters despite minor registration application issues. This intervention is part of the ongoing legal battle over the 2024 election results in North Carolina.
• RNC and North Carolina GOP join Griffin's ballot challenge — The Republican National Committee, the North Carolina GOP, and the Wake County Republican Party joined Jefferson Griffin's legal challenge, contesting 60,000 ballots in the 2024 election. They argue that the state's voter registration form did not clearly state that providing a driver's license or social security number was mandatory, affecting the validity of these ballots. This legal action is part of a broader effort to contest the election results.
• Trump conditions aid to California on voter ID laws — Former President Donald Trump stated he would not agree to provide federal aid to California unless the state adopted mandatory voter ID laws, which would effectively end mail-in voting. This condition was mentioned during his visit to California to address wildfire relief efforts.
• Trump threatens to withhold wildfire aid from California — President Trump threatened on January 24, 2025, to withhold wildfire aid from California unless the state introduces voter ID requirements and makes changes to water policy. This threat has been criticized as an abuse of federal power and raises concerns about the use of aid as leverage for political gain.

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

• Trump administration eliminated "X" gender marker on federal passports and denied or revoked requests to update gender markers — Within days of returning to office on January 20, 2025, the Trump administration reversed Biden-era protections for transgender Americans by eliminating the "X" gender marker on passports that had been introduced in 2022. Requests to update gender markers were returned with instructions to "correct" them back to birth sex. Some applicants reported their passports were seized and never reissued. The Supreme Court allowed the administration to continue enforcing these rules while litigation proceeds, leaving trans people unable to obtain identification documents that reflect their identity.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14168 eliminating gender markers from federal recognition and banning trans military service. — On his first day back in office, President Trump signed Executive Order 14168 titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government." Over the subsequent ten months, the order resulted in elimination of passport gender markers, ban on trans military service with reinstatement of discharge codes, threats to youth healthcare funding, closure of the 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Lifeline (which had served 1.3 million youth), transfer of trans women to men's prisons, removal of federal data on trans Americans from government websites, removal of shelter protections, and deletion of LGBTQ health pages from federal sites.
• Executive Order on Gender Definitions and Policies — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14168, mandating federal agencies to recognize only two biological sexes, male and female, and rescinding previous orders that supported gender identity recognition. The order directs agencies to enforce sex-based distinctions in federal policies and documents, and prohibits federal funding for gender ideology. It also requires changes to identification documents and agency policies to reflect these definitions.
• Trump issues executive order on gender and fetal personhood — Donald Trump issued an executive order that defines gender based on biological sex at conception, incorporating language that aligns with the concept of fetal personhood. This doctrine, advocated by the anti-abortion movement, suggests that life begins at conception, granting embryos and fetuses full legal rights. The order's language has raised concerns among abortion rights supporters, as it could potentially lead to nationwide abortion bans and criminalization of the procedure. The order was issued shortly after Trump took office, signaling a possible shift in federal policy regarding reproductive rights.
• Trump issues executive order on passport sex markers — On January 20, 2025, Trump issued an executive order overturning a 33-year State Department policy allowing transgender individuals to change sex markers on passports. The order declared that "It is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female," defined as "an individual's immutable biological classification" assigned "at conception." The order characterized transgender identity as "false" and "corrosive" to the country.
• Trump issues executive order on gender ideology — 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.
• White House issued executive order redefining sex and gender in federal policy and rescinding prior LGBTQ+ protections — 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.
• Trump administration issued new federal prison guidance transferring transgender women to men's prisons and authorizing male guards to conduct pat-down searches — New federal guidance issued by the Trump administration reshaped the federal prison system by directing the transfer of transgender women into men's prisons regardless of their safety or medical needs. Male guards were authorized to conduct pat-down searches on trans women, a practice condemned by advocates and medical professionals. Those who reported threats were placed in solitary confinement labeled as "protective custody," despite isolation being known to cause psychological harm. Federal court filings describe some trans women as being at "imminent risk" of assault.
• Trump administration issued directives removing LGBTQ and race-related books from federal military-base schools — The Trump administration issued directives around "gender ideology" that reshaped education in federal military-base schools. Administrators removed hundreds of LGBTQ- and race-related books from shelves. A federal judge ordered the books restored after legal challenge. Teacher unions warned that educators now face legal and administrative risks for using a student's correct name or pronouns. Federal guidance discouraged any support for social transition, even when recommended by medical professionals.
• Trump administration issued Executive Order 14168 directing federal agencies to delete LGBTQ health pages, suicide-risk data, and trans-related terminology from government records — Executive Order 14168, signed January 20, 2025, directed federal agencies to delete LGBTQ health pages, suicide-risk data, trans-related terminology, public health guidance, federal surveys, workforce protections, and research pages from government systems. Almost overnight, web pages went dark and guidance documents disappeared. Datasets that once helped hospitals, schools, and researchers understand risk and allocate resources became inaccessible. Some pages were restored only after lawsuits forced agencies to comply with transparency requirements.
• Trump creates policy recognizing only two genders — President Donald Trump signed an executive order removing "gender ideology guidance" from federal government communication, policies, and forms. The order establishes a policy recognizing only two genders, male and female, reversing a Biden-era action on gender identity acceptance.
• 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.

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 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

• Trump declared national energy emergency to unleash oil production in Alaska — On January 20, 2025, Trump declared a national energy emergency as part of a barrage of pro-fossil fuel actions to "unleash" US energy production. The declaration included rolling back restrictions on drilling in Alaska and undoing a pause on gas exports. Trump stated "you can do whatever you have to do to get out of that problem and we do have that kind of emergency." The order states it is US policy to "fully avail itself of Alaska's vast lands and resources." The declaration would allow fast-tracking permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure and will likely face legal challenges.
• 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 signs order to expand oil and gas drilling in Alaska — Donald Trump signed an executive order to expand oil and gas drilling in Alaska, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). This order reverses Biden-era restrictions and opens up nearly 3 million acres of the Arctic Ocean for drilling. The move fulfills a campaign promise and is part of Trump's broader strategy to increase fossil fuel production. Environmentalists have criticized the decision, citing potential harm to wildlife and ecosystems.
• Trump unleashes pro-fossil fuel executive actions — On his first day in office, President Donald Trump issued dozens of executive actions favoring the fossil fuel industry. These actions are part of a broader strategy to support oil and gas companies, which spent $445 million in the last election cycle to influence Trump and Congress. The executive actions are expected to benefit these companies, aligning with Trump's campaign promises to expand fossil fuel production and reverse previous climate policies.