Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump administration signed Executive Order 14187 threatening federal funding cuts to hospitals providing gender-affirming care to transgender youth — Executive Order 14187, signed on January 20, 2025, targeted medical systems caring for transgender youth by threatening hospitals with loss of federal funding if they continued providing gender-affirming care. Gender clinics began shutting down even in states that protect such care. Doctors were instructed to pause new treatments pending legal clarification. Insurance companies began denying or delaying coverage. The administration's HHS released a "gender dysphoria" report misrepresenting existing research and promoting "exploratory therapy," a practice widely criticized by medical associations as conversion therapy under a new name.

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

• Executive Order Enforcing the Hyde Amendment — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14182 on January 24, 2025, enforcing the Hyde Amendment by revoking previous executive orders that allowed federal funding for elective abortions. The order directs the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to federal agencies to ensure compliance with this policy, which prohibits the use of federal taxpayer dollars for elective abortions.
• Trump issues executive order enforcing the Hyde Amendment — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 24, 2025, to enforce the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal funding for elective abortions. The order revokes previous executive orders from 2022 that allowed federal funding for such procedures. The Director of the Office of Management and Budget is tasked with guiding executive departments and agencies on implementing this policy. The order aims to align federal funding practices with the longstanding congressional consensus against taxpayer-funded elective abortions.
• White House established Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council — 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.
• White House signed executive order revoking prior abortion-funding guidance and directing OMB to implement Hyde Amendment enforcement — The White House signed an executive order on January 24, 2025, revoking Executive Orders 14076 (July 8, 2022) and 14079 (August 3, 2022), which the order characterizes as having embedded federal funding of elective abortion in various federal programs. The order directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to promulgate guidance to executive departments and agencies to implement the revocation and enforce the Hyde Amendment, a longstanding congressional restriction on federal funding of elective abortion.

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 fires inspectors general — On January 24, 2025, President Trump fired the independent inspectors general of at least 12 major federal government agencies in a "purge," possibly violating federal law which requires Congress to receive 30 days' notice. This action has raised concerns about oversight and accountability within the federal government.

Supporting reports

• Federal Recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina — President Biden issued a memorandum directing the Secretary of the Interior to develop a plan for the full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. This plan will explore legal pathways, including legislation, to grant the tribe full federal benefits. The memorandum emphasizes the historical and modern significance of the Lumbee Tribe and aims to rectify past exclusions from federal benefits. The Secretary is tasked with consulting the tribe's leadership and submitting the plan within 90 days.
• Reinstatement of the Mexico City Policy — President reinstated the Mexico City Policy, revoking a 2021 memorandum. This policy restricts U.S. funding for organizations involved in coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization. The Secretary of State is directed to implement this policy across global health assistance programs.
• Trump reinstates 'global gag rule' on abortion aid — On Friday, Donald Trump signed an executive order reinstating the "Mexico City policy," also known as the "global gag rule." This policy halts U.S. aid to international organizations that provide abortion services, counsel on abortion, or advocate for abortion rights. Historically affecting up to $600 million in aid, the policy's reinstatement under Trump could impact billions of dollars due to its expanded scope. This move is expected to significantly affect reproductive healthcare access globally, potentially leading to unsafe abortions and reduced access to contraception.
• White House issued memorandum reinstating the Mexico City Policy — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 24, 2025, revoking the January 28, 2021 memorandum titled "Protecting Women's Health at Home and Abroad" and reinstating the January 23, 2017 memorandum on the Mexico City Policy. The memorandum directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to implement a plan extending the policy's requirements to global health assistance furnished by all departments or agencies, and to ensure U.S. taxpayer dollars do not fund organizations or programs that support or participate in coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization.

Supporting reports

• Trump pardons anti-abortion activists — Former President Donald Trump granted pardons to anti-abortion activists convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The law protects clinic staff and patients from violence and harassment. Trump's pardons affect 21 individuals, including 10 who were still in prison. This action follows calls from Senator Josh Hawley for pardons of these individuals, whom he described as unjustly persecuted by the Biden administration.
• Mike Lee introduces bill to repeal FACE Act — Senator Mike Lee introduced legislation to repeal the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, arguing it has been weaponized against pro-life activists. The FACE Act currently protects clinic staff and patients from violence and harassment. Lee's bill aims to prevent future administrations from enforcing the law.
• Trump Delegates Executive Orders to Attorney General — President Trump issued a series of executive orders and instructed the incoming attorney general to manage their implementation, indicating a desire for the Justice Department to act on his policy wishes.
• Trump shuts down federal DEI offices — Trump ordered the shutdown of all federal government offices focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and placed employees working in these programs on leave. He characterized DEI efforts as “illegal discrimination in the federal government” and directed agencies to plan for layoffs. This move is part of a broader effort to eliminate DEI initiatives from federal operations.
• Trump pardons antiabortion activists — President Trump issued pardons for nearly two dozen antiabortion activists convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. This action aligns with his administration's agenda to oppose perceived government overreach against political minorities.
• — President Trump issued pardons for nearly two dozen antiabortion activists convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, which prohibits threats and obstruction against reproductive health services. The pardons align with Trump's agenda against what he describes as the weaponization of government. The timing of these pardons has raised questions among activists about their delayed announcement compared to the January 6 pardons.

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

• Trump administration bans non-US flags at embassies — The Trump administration, through the US Department of State, has implemented a policy prohibiting the display of any flags other than the US flag at consular posts. This "One flag policy" is part of a broader effort to reduce diversity initiatives within government institutions. The policy allows exceptions only for the prisoner of war/missing in action flag and the hostages and wrongful detainees flag. This move contrasts with the previous Biden administration's practices of flying gay pride and Black Lives Matter flags at embassies.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order on Digital Financial Technology — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14178 to promote U.S. leadership in digital financial technology. The order revokes EO 14067, prohibits Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), and establishes a working group to propose regulatory frameworks for digital assets. The order aims to protect economic liberty and ensure regulatory clarity in the digital asset sector.
• Trump signs pro-crypto executive order repealing Biden protections — President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Strengthening American Leadership In Digital Financial Technology" on January 23, 2025. The order aims to promote U.S. leadership in digital assets and financial technology while protecting economic liberty. It outlines policies to support the growth of digital assets, blockchain technology, and related technologies. The order revokes Executive Order 14067 and the Department of the Treasury's framework on digital assets, establishes a President's Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, and prohibits the establishment of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) within the U.S.
• White House issued fact sheet on executive order establishing Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets — On January 23, 2025, Trump signed the executive order "Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology," signaling strong support for the crypto industry. The order repealed Biden's 2022 executive order that included provisions to "protect consumers, investors, and businesses" from financial risks. Trump's order emphasized that "individual citizens and private-sector entities" had a right to use "open public blockchain networks without persecution." The order also established the "President's Working Group on Digital Asset Markets," chaired by David Sacks, a venture capitalist and crypto investor.
• White House signed executive order on digital assets and cryptocurrency, establishing working group and prohibiting central bank digital currencies — The White House published a fact sheet on January 23, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump to establish regulatory clarity for digital assets and create a Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets. The order directs the Working Group to develop a federal regulatory framework for digital assets including stablecoins, evaluate a strategic national digital assets stockpile, and recommend rescission or modification of existing regulations affecting the sector. The order prohibits agencies from establishing central bank digital currencies and revokes the previous administration's digital assets executive order.
• — The White House signed an executive order titled "Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology" on January 23, 2025. The order revokes Executive Order 14067 (Biden administration's digital asset framework) and the Treasury Department's July 2022 international digital assets framework. It establishes a Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets chaired by the Special Advisor for AI and Crypto, comprising Treasury, Justice, Commerce, Homeland Security, OMB, NSC, SEC, and CFTC officials. The order directs agencies to identify and recommend rescission or modification of regulations affecting digital assets within 60 days, and mandates a 180-day report proposing federal regulatory frameworks for stablecoins and a national digital asset stockpile. It explicitly prohibits agencies from establishing, issuing, or promoting central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) within U.S. jurisdiction.

Supporting reports

• Establishment of President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14177, establishing the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). The council will advise on science, technology, education, and innovation policy, aiming to maintain U.S. technological dominance. The order revokes Executive Order 14007 and outlines the council's structure, functions, and administration, including the involvement of non-Federal members and the Department of Energy's support.
• Trump orders declassification of assassination records — President Donald Trump issued an executive order establishing the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) on January 23, 2025. The council is composed of up to 24 members, including the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and the Special Advisor for AI & Crypto. The PCAST will advise the President on science, technology, education, and innovation policy, and provide scientific and technical information to inform public policy. The order also revokes a previous executive order related to the council.
• President signed executive order establishing President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology — President Donald Trump issued an executive order mandating the declassification and release of all federal records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The order requires the Director of National Intelligence and the Attorney General to present plans for the full release of these records within specified timeframes. This action aims to provide transparency and truth to the American public and the families of the assassinated figures.
• White House issued fact sheet on PCAST establishment — President Trump signed an executive order on January 23, 2025, establishing the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). The order creates a council of up to 24 members, including the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and a Special Advisor for AI & Crypto as co-chairs, plus distinguished individuals from academia, industry, and the private sector. The council will advise the President on science, technology, education, and innovation policy. The order revokes the previous PCAST established by Executive Order 14007 (January 27, 2021) and sets a two-year termination date unless extended.
• — The White House issued a fact sheet announcing President Trump's establishment of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a 24-member advisory body comprising scientists and technologists from industry, academia, and government. The fact sheet states PCAST will provide "evidence-based recommendations" to the President and claims the council will "restore excellence" by prioritizing "results-driven excellence and merit-based achievement" while eliminating "bureaucratic barriers." The document asserts that "ideological agendas" have threatened "scientific truth" and eroded public trust in research.

Supporting reports

• Purdue Pharma and Sacklers reach $7.4bn settlement — Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family have agreed to a $7.4 billion settlement to resolve thousands of lawsuits related to the opioid crisis. The settlement, which requires court approval, involves the Sacklers relinquishing control of Purdue Pharma, which will be restructured with a new board appointed by states and other plaintiffs. The funds will be distributed among victims, survivors, and state and local governments to combat the opioid epidemic. This settlement follows a previous $6 billion agreement that was blocked by the Supreme Court.

Supporting reports

• Declassification of Assassination Records Ordered — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14176, mandating the declassification and release of all federal records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The order requires the Director of National Intelligence and the Attorney General to present plans for the full release of these records within specified timeframes. This action aims to enhance transparency and fulfill public interest in these historical events.
• Trump orders release of classified JFK assassination files — President Donald Trump signed an executive order to release thousands of classified documents related to the 1963 assassination of John F. Kennedy. The order also aims to declassify records concerning the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. This move fulfills a campaign promise and directs the director of national intelligence and the attorney general to develop a declassification plan within 15 days for JFK records and 45 days for the others. The release date for these documents remains unspecified.
• Trump orders declassification of assassination records — President Donald Trump issued an executive order mandating the declassification and release of all federal records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The order requires the Director of National Intelligence and the Attorney General to present plans for the full release of these records within specified timeframes. This action aims to provide transparency and truth to the American public and the families of the assassinated figures.
• President Trump signed executive order directing declassification of JFK, RFK, and MLK assassination records — The White House issued a fact sheet announcing that President Trump signed an executive order on declassification of assassination records. The order directs the Director of National Intelligence to present a plan within 15 days for full release of JFK assassination records, and to review and present a plan within 45 days for RFK and MLK assassination records. The fact sheet states the order finds continued withholding is not in the public interest and long overdue.
• Trump signed executive order directing declassification of JFK, RFK, and MLK assassination records — President Trump signed an executive order on January 23, 2025, directing the declassification and release of federal records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The order states that more than 50 years after these events, the federal government has not released all related records, and that families and the American people "deserve transparency and truth." The Director of National Intelligence and Attorney General are directed to present a plan for full release of JFK records within 15 days and RFK/MLK records within 45 days.

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

• Rep. Andy Ogles introduces bill to amend 22nd Amendment — Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN) introduced a bill to amend the 22nd Amendment to allow former President Donald Trump to run for a third term. The proposed amendment specifies that no person shall be elected to the office of the President more than three times, nor be elected to any additional term after being elected to two consecutive terms. The bill is worded to exclude former President Barack Obama from running again.
• Rep. Ogles introduces resolution for third Trump term — On January 23, 2025, Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) introduced a resolution in the House to amend the Constitution to allow President Trump to serve a third term. This proposal has sparked significant controversy and debate about the limits of presidential terms and the potential erosion of democratic norms.

Supporting reports

• Kushner secures $2 billion from Saudi Arabia — Jared Kushner, former White House official and son-in-law of Donald Trump, secured a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund for his private equity firm, Affinity Partners. This investment was made despite the fund's committee recommending against it due to Kushner's inexperience and high fees. The decision was overruled by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with whom Kushner has a personal relationship. This raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and influence peddling, given Kushner's advisory role to Trump.
• Trump Organization partners with Kushner in Serbia — Jared Kushner partnered with the Trump Organization to develop a Trump-branded luxury hotel and apartment complex in Belgrade, Serbia. This project, known as Trump Tower Belgrade, involves foreign governments, including Saudi Arabia, enriching the Trump Organization. The development is on a former military site leased by the Serbian government to Affinity Partners, Kushner's firm. This partnership raises ethical concerns about foreign influence and conflicts of interest, as it involves the President's family and business interests.

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

• House Republicans form new January 6 panel — House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, announced the formation of a new select subcommittee to investigate the events surrounding January 6. This move aims to challenge the findings of the previous investigation that held Donald Trump responsible for the Capitol attack. The subcommittee, chaired by Barry Loudermilk, seeks to explore alleged intelligence and security failures. This development follows the president's pardoning of individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 events, including those involved in violence against Capitol police.

Supporting reports

• FCC reinstates Trump campaign complaints — On January 22, 2025, the new FCC Chair Brendan Carr reinstated Trump campaign complaints against ABC, NBC, and CBS alleging election bias. This action is part of a broader effort to challenge media coverage critical of the Trump administration and raises concerns about the independence of the FCC and press freedom.

Supporting reports

• Trump calls for MSNBC license revocation — On January 22, 2025, President Trump called for MSNBC to lose its broadcasting license on Truth Social. This call is part of a broader pattern of attacks on media outlets critical of his administration and raises concerns about press freedom and the use of government power to silence dissent.

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

• Trump revokes federal contractor civil rights order — On January 21, President Donald Trump revoked an executive order that had guided federal contractor nondiscrimination policy for nearly 60 years, which was rooted in earlier civil rights efforts. This action is seen as a significant step in dismantling protections for workers and undermining the principles of equality established in previous administrations.
• 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

• 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.