President-elect Donald Trump makes an unexpected appearance on Capitol Hill, signaling his readiness to implement sweeping policy changes.
According to the New York Post, Trump revealed an ambitious plan comprising 100 executive orders during a closed-door meeting with Senate Republicans, emphasizing immediate action on border security and energy policies upon taking office on January 20.
The 78-year-old president-elect, accompanied by homeland security adviser Stephen Miller, outlined his strategy to reverse numerous Biden administration policies. Trump has expressed his intention to sign at least 25 executive orders on his first day back in office, demonstrating his eagerness to implement changes swiftly.
The incoming administration's border security agenda includes a comprehensive deportation operation, which homeland security adviser Tom Homan describes as the largest in U.S. history. The operation will initially target migrants who have committed crimes, with plans to secure congressional funding for expanded detention facilities.
Trump's border-related executive orders aim to reinstate the "Remain in Mexico" policy, halt migrant flights from the southern border region, and end the current catch-and-release practice. The administration also plans to suspend refugee admissions and implement restrictions on the CBP One mobile app for migrants.
One of the most controversial proposals involves challenging birthright citizenship. Trump stated his position on this matter in May 2023:
On Day One of my new term in office, I will sign an executive order making clear to federal agencies that under the correct interpretation of the law, going forward, the future children of illegal aliens will not receive automatic US citizenship.
The president-elect's energy agenda focuses on dismantling Biden-era environmental policies, particularly those affecting domestic energy production. Trump has committed to reversing offshore drilling restrictions and natural gas export limitations.
During a recent appearance at Mar-a-Lago, Trump emphasized his determination to revitalize American energy production. He has set an ambitious goal of reducing energy prices by 50% within 18 months through various policy changes, including reopening Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for drilling operations.
Speaking about his energy policy goals on the campaign trail, Trump remarked:
I want to be a dictator for one day because I'm gonna get going with 'Drill, baby, drill.' After that, I'll never be a dictator.
The executive order strategy extends beyond immigration and energy policies, encompassing pardons for January 6 defendants and potential personnel changes in key positions. Trump has indicated his intention to dismiss special counsel Jack Smith, though reports suggest Smith might resign before the transition.
The administration plans to implement these changes systematically, acknowledging that some orders may face legal challenges. The strategy includes reversing Biden's Title IX interpretations regarding gender identity and implementing new guidelines for federal agencies.
These executive orders represent a significant shift in federal policy direction, with many requiring careful legal consideration before implementation. Legal experts anticipate various court challenges to several of these proposed actions.
The comprehensive executive order plan presented to Senate Republicans reflects Trump's determination to implement immediate policy changes upon returning to the White House. The meeting on Capitol Hill outlined his administration's priorities in border security, energy policy, and other crucial areas that will shape his second term's initial phase. While some orders may face legal scrutiny, Trump's team appears prepared to begin implementing these changes as soon as he takes the oath of office on January 20, setting the stage for a potentially transformative period in American governance.
