Donald Trump has started his second term as President of the United States with a flurry of executive orders, policy announcements, and international reactions. On his first full day back in the White House, the president set the tone for his administration’s direction, emphasizing themes of strength, transparency, and economic growth.
A Bold Start: Executive Orders and National Emergency Declaration
On Monday, Trump initiated the process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement. He also declared a national emergency at the southern border, citing the need to address immigration issues. Mexico’s President Claudia Scheinbaum criticized these moves, stating that the emergency declaration is a rehash of a similar order from 2019 and labeled the “Remain in Mexico” policy as a repeat from 2018. On a lighter note, Scheinbaum dismissed Trump’s directive to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America,” asserting that Mexico and the rest of the world would continue using its current name.
The president also granted nearly 1,600 pardons related to the Capitol riots of January 6, 2021. Many prisoners are expected to be released promptly, a move that has sparked intense debate.
Press Briefings Absent but Transparency Promised
Nearly a full day into Trump’s second term, the White House has yet to hold a press briefing. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in an interview with Fox News, stated that “the American people won’t be hearing from me today,” redirecting attention to Trump’s infrastructure announcement planned for later. Leavitt described Trump as “the most transparent president in history,” suggesting more direct interactions between the president and reporters in the future.
Reporters in the White House press area expressed eagerness for clarity on Trump’s policies and plans. News briefings typically offer opportunities to scrutinize presidential decisions and understand the administration’s perspective. These sessions can be tense, as seen during Joe Biden’s tenure, particularly when the press queried sensitive topics like the Gaza conflict or the president’s age.
Canada Responds to Tariff Threats
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to Trump’s renewed threat to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the two countries’ economies. “Canadian energy powers American manufacturing, business, homes,” Trudeau remarked. Referring to Trump’s vision of a “golden age” for America, Trudeau noted that achieving it would require critical resources such as steel, aluminum, and minerals—many of which Canada provides.
Trudeau warned of retaliatory measures should the tariffs proceed. “Canada will respond—and everything is on the table,” he stated. Trump, meanwhile, has instructed his administration to review U.S. trade relationships, with findings expected by April 1.
Rubio Takes Helm as Secretary of State
Florida Senator Marco Rubio has been sworn in as Secretary of State, becoming the first member of Trump’s new cabinet to secure Senate approval. Known for his hawkish foreign policy stance, Rubio emphasized a transformative approach to U.S. diplomacy. “Does it make us stronger? Does it make us safer and does it make us more prosperous? If not, we will not do it,” he declared.
Rubio, who has a reputation for taking firm positions on issues involving Iran and China, described this period as a “new era” for U.S. foreign policy. He reiterated Trump’s focus on promoting peace as the primary goal of international engagement.
Infrastructure Announcement and Religious Observance
Today, Trump is scheduled to attend an interfaith prayer service at Washington, D.C.’s National Cathedral, joined by notable figures such as JD Vance. Later in the day, he plans to unveil a “massive announcement” regarding infrastructure. Leavitt hinted that this initiative would showcase America’s resurgence on the global stage, though no specific details were disclosed.
Global Reactions to U.S. Policies
International responses to Trump’s decisions have been swift and varied. Laurence Tubiana, a key architect of the Paris Climate Agreement, urged nations to persist with climate action despite the U.S. withdrawal. “We should not be frightened by shouting or declarations,” Tubiana asserted, adding, “Let’s not be derailed or distracted. It is a moment of courage I’m waiting for.”
In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz commented on Elon Musk’s controversial gesture at Trump’s inauguration, which some compared to a Nazi salute. Scholz reiterated Germany’s commitment to freedom of speech while condemning any actions that support extremist views. Musk dismissed the criticism on social media, calling it a “tired attack.”
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Political analyst Anthony Zurcher highlighted the challenges and opportunities Trump faces in his second term. His policies on trade, climate, and immigration will shape both domestic and international perceptions. Meanwhile, his approach to transparency and press relations could redefine the dynamics of presidential accountability.
As the day unfolds, Trump’s actions will likely continue to spark debates, signaling an administration eager to implement its vision while navigating complex political landscapes. Whether these early moves will lead to the promised “golden age” remains to be seen.