Trump's Day One Pledges: A Report Card After His First Month
Donald Trump's return to the White House has been marked by a rapid succession of executive actions to fulfill campaign promises, particularly on immigration, energy, and social issues. While Trump has acted swiftly on several key pledges, including initiating deportation efforts and dismantling some green energy policies, challenges remain in areas such as reducing prices and resolving the war in Ukraine. His actions align with the "promises made, promises kept" motto, yet legal and economic hurdles loom large.
Key Policy Changes
Significant activity occurred through executive orders and directives in Trump's first month, reflecting his strategy of quickly enacting his agenda.
Immigration and Border Security
Trump has initiated what he termed "the most considerable deportation effort in American history." He has also moved to secure the borders.
Energy Independence
Trump has taken steps to expand fracking and drilling operations in Alaska. He also declared a "national energy emergency," instructing agency heads to facilitate the development of domestic energy resources, including oil, natural gas, and other sources. He signed an order titled "Unleashing Alaska's Extraordinary Reso.”
Social and Cultural Issues
Trump has acted to uphold free speech. One of his early orders stipulated that the federal government must not engage in actions that would unconstitutionally limit the free speech of any American citizen or utilize federal resources to do so. He also moved to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and expel "transgender ideology from our military."
Promises in Progress: Challenges and Hurdles
Despite swift action on several fronts, Trump has faced challenges fulfilling other key promises.
Price Reduction
Trump stated, "If I win, I will bring prices, starting on day one." A significant price surge in January complicated these efforts. Trump has also said he will "marshal vast powers" to swiftly lower costs, yet the specifics remain vague.
Ending the War in Ukraine
Trump also claimed he could resolve the Ukraine conflict within 24 hours of assuming office, possibly even sooner. As the war persists, Trump, when asked about his initial promise to end it, stated, "There only half day. Another half day left. We'll. We want to get it done".
Tariffs and Trade
Tariffs and Trade
Trump indicated he would sign an executive order to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada. However, no tariff orders were signed on his first day, although he mentioned contemplating them.
Project 2025 Alignment
Many of Trump's early actions align with proposals detailed in "Mandate for Leadership," the comprehensive guide from Project 2025. A CNN examination revealed that over two-thirds of Trump's early executive actions align with Project 2025's plans.
Controversies and Misinformation
Controversies and the spread of misinformation have marked Trump's first month in office. President Donald Trump operated rapidly in his first month and was equally prolific in spreading misin
During her inaugural briefing, press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump had prevented a plan to allocate $50 million for 'condoms in Gaza.' The assertion was immediately questioned, as the Trump administration lacked evidence to back it up. Nonetheless, Trump reiterated the $50 million figure the following day, adding an incendiary assertion that the condoms were intended 'for Hamas.'
Federal Layoffs and Economic Concerns
The Trump administration has initiated the dismissal of thousands of workers within their probationary periods, a common practice for new hires. Some individuals received less than an hour’s notice to vacate their workspaces. Those at risk of unemployment include medical researchers, energy infrastructure experts, foreign service personnel, FBI agents, prosecutors, agricultural and educational data analysts, overseas aid workers, and even human resources staff who would typically manage such layoffs.
Amid this policy turmoil, the latest economic indicators may raise concerns within the White House. According to the Labor Department, inflation increased by 0.5% in January.
Legal and Political Challenges
Trump's actions have faced legal challenges from Democrats, labor unions, and advocacy groups. The federal judiciary has emerged as the primary obstacle to Trump's agenda, with judges temporarily blocking some of the most controversial measures, such as eliminating automatic citizenship for individuals born on U.S. soil.
A Month of Action, Promises, and Persistent Hurdles
Donald Trump's first month in office has been marked by swift actions to deliver on key promises, particularly in areas like immigration, energy, and social issues. While successes have been noted, significant challenges persist in reducing prices, resolving international conflicts, and overcoming legal and economic obstacles. As his administration progresses, the extent to which Trump can fulfill his broader agenda remains to be seen.