New USA Government and Policy Changes

By Ashutosh Kumar , International Relations Committee, IMT Hyderabd

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump began his second term by signing a series of executive orders that mark significant shifts in U.S. domestic and foreign policy. Among the most notable actions is the decision to end birthright citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants and those on temporary visas. This controversial move aligns with the administration's focus on tightening immigration controls and prioritizing national sovereignty. Additionally, the Trump administration has announced plans to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, reversing a signature policy of the Biden era. This decision reflects a renewed emphasis on deregulation and energy independence, underscoring the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American economic interests over global climate initiatives.

In a further demonstration of its scepticism towards international organizations, the administration has initiated the process of exiting the World Health Organization (WHO). This move echoes previous criticisms of the WHO’s handling of global health crises and represents a shift toward a more unilateral approach to health policy. Another significant policy change involves rejecting the global corporate minimum tax (GCMT) deal, signaling a steadfast commitment to protecting American businesses and maintaining economic sovereignty in the face of international tax agreements. Together, these executive orders and policy initiatives reflect a broader agenda aimed at dismantling policies established by the previous administration while advancing Trump's vision for America, characterized by a conservative approach to governance and a focus on national interests.

The administration's immigration policies have undergone substantial revisions. Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Benjamine Huffman has issued directives reversing Biden-era guidelines, which had limited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement in sensitive areas. These changes aim to strengthen immigration enforcement and focus on criminal aliens. Additionally, the humanitarian parole program has been restructured, reverting to a case-by-case basis rather than the broader, more inclusive approach previously adopted. This adjustment is designed to curtail what the administration views as excessive migration while maintaining the integrity of the program for genuine humanitarian cases.

On January 21, 2025, President Trump further demonstrated his intent to dismantle the policies of the previous administration by revoking executive orders related to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. These initiatives were criticized by the new administration as divisive and ineffective. Additionally, a regulatory freeze has been implemented to halt pending regulations, allowing for a reassessment of priorities. This standard transition practice enables the administration to evaluate existing policies and redirect efforts toward its stated goals of reducing regulatory burdens, addressing inflation, and fostering economic growth.

The broader policy implications of these changes reflect a return to what the administration terms “common-sense governance,” emphasizing public safety, economic prosperity, and restoring public trust in federal institutions. With a Republican-majority Congress, the administration is expected to face minimal resistance in shaping these policy shifts. Congressional committees are being established to oversee government efficiency and regulatory reform, laying the groundwork for legislative actions that align with the administration’s agenda.

These sweeping changes signify a significant realignment of U.S. policy. By prioritizing national sovereignty, economic competitiveness, and a conservative approach to governance, the administration is reshaping the country’s domestic and international strategies. These actions, though controversial, reflect the administration's commitment to its vision of "America First," with long-term implications for immigration enforcement, regulatory practices, and the nation’s role on the global stage.

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Sources:

1.?????? https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/initial-rescissions-of-harmful-executive-orders-and-actions/

2.?????? https://www.brookings.edu/articles/tracking-regulatory-changes-in-the-second-trump-administration/

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