Trump’s Second Month, Executive Orders, Mass Firings Reshape US Governance and Global Stance
In his first month of a non-consecutive second term, President Donald Trump has unleashed an unprecedented wave of executive actions, dismissing over 73,000 federal employees and restructuring U.S. foreign policy through rapid deregulation and institutional overhauls. Since his January 20, 2025 inauguration, Trump has signed 41 executive orders—ranging from withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO) to establishing a “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk—while facing legal challenges and global scrutiny over his “America First” agenda. The administration’s aggressive moves have upended federal operations, sparked international concern, and ignited debates over governance norms and global alliances.
Blitz of Executive Orders Redefine Policy Landscape
In its first month, Trump’s administration issued 41 executive orders targeting immigration, energy, and federal workforce policies. Key actions included withdrawing the U.S. from the WHO and Paris Climate Agreement, reinstating tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, and eliminating diversity initiatives in federal agencies. One order reclassified thousands of federal workers as political appointees, easing dismissals, while another declared a national energy emergency to fast-track fossil fuel projects.
Elon Musk’s DOGE agency spearheaded a “workforce optimization” initiative, identifying $98 million in annual savings by cutting 1,000 Veterans Affairs staff. Musk defended the strategy, stating, “We’ll make mistakes, but we’ll act quickly to correct them.” Critics, however, warn of long-term risks. Doreen Greenwald of the National Treasury Employees Union argued, “These firings undermine agencies’ ability to function effectively.”
Mass Firings Trigger Chaos and Reversals
The administration dismissed over 73,000 federal employees through voluntary buyouts and forced layoffs, primarily targeting probationary workers with fewer job protections. Agencies like the IRS, Education Department, and Environmental Protection Agency saw thousands depart, with some terminations abruptly reversed. At the National Nuclear Security Administration, 272 of 300 fired staff were rehired after officials realized their roles were critical to nuclear stockpile maintenance.
“Agencies spent years recruiting these workers. Firing them en masse is throwing away the future,” said Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees.
The Department of Agriculture rescinded layoffs for bird flu researchers, while the Indian Health Service reinstated 950 employees after backlash. Despite reversals, the White House defended the strategy. Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller called it “standard downsizing,” adding, “You assess cuts and rehire where needed.”
Global Repercussions of ‘America First’ Revival
Trump’s foreign policy shifts have rattled allies. Orders exiting the Paris Accord and WHO drew condemnation, while a directive to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America” strained ties with Mexico. The Carnegie Endowment warned Trump’s review of multilateral treaties risks “fragmenting the world order,” particularly impacting climate and health initiatives.
Internationally, Trump seeks to recalibrate alliances. He revived tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods, citing unfair trade practices, and pushed NATO members to increase defense spending. Tiberio Graziani of Vision and Global Trends noted, “Trump aims to weaken multilateralism, favoring bilateral deals prioritizing U.S. interests.” Meanwhile, peace talks in Ukraine and Gaza saw limited progress, with Riyadh-mediated discussions failing to yield breakthroughs.
Legal Challenges and Public Backlash
Federal judges have blocked several policies, including a travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim nations and dismissing whistleblower protections. On February 21, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper allowed firings to proceed but acknowledged the “disruption and chaos” caused by Trump’s actions. Unions continue to challenge the orders, arguing they bypass congressional authority.
Public dissent has surged, mirroring Trump’s first term. Protests erupted at federal buildings, and the ACLU filed suits against immigration crackdowns and free speech restrictions. Polls show that 58% of Americans oppose the mass layoffs, and concerns mount over service delays at agencies like the IRS during tax season.
Institutional Erosion or Streamlined Government?
The administration plans further cuts, targeting 10% of the CDC and dismantling USAID’s humanitarian programs. Musk’s DOGE seeks access to IRS taxpayer data, raising privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Trump’s focus on AI and an “Iron Dome” missile system signals a tech-driven security pivot.
Global analysts warn of a “new world order” defined by U.S. unilateralism. As Trump withdraws from treaties, Graziani predicts “accelerated fragmentation,” which will benefit adversarial powers like China and Russia. Domestically, the Supreme Court’s stance on pending cases—including a challenge to Musk’s DOGE authority—will shape the administration’s trajectory.
Future perspective
Donald Trump’s second-month agenda has reshaped federal governance through rapid deregulation, workforce reductions, and a contentious foreign policy pivot. While supporters laud cost-cutting and energy independence gains, critics decry institutional erosion and global isolation. With legal battles intensifying and international alliances fraying, the administration’s capacity to balance efficiency with stability remains a defining challenge. As Trump vows to “reform what’s broken,” the nation braces for more profound transformations—and growing polarization—in the months ahead.