In the first two weeks of his second term, President Donald Trump has moved swiftly to reshape U.S. policy, implementing sweeping changes that have sparked both praise and condemnation.
From mass deportations to a freeze on foreign aid, his administration’s early decisions signal a sharp break from the past four years and a return to the aggressive policymaking that defined his first presidency.
As the dust settles on these initial moves, supporters hail them as decisive actions to restore America’s sovereignty and economic strength, while critics warn of legal battles, diplomatic fallout, and potential human rights violations.
Here’s a closer look at the most consequential decisions so far—and what they could mean for the country and the world.
1. Mass Deportations Under the Alien Enemies Act
Perhaps the most dramatic—and legally contentious—decision so far is Trump’s plan to invoke the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to fast-track mass deportations of undocumented immigrants with alleged gang affiliations.
The law, originally designed to remove foreign nationals from enemy nations during wartime, has rarely been used in modern U.S. history. Trump’s administration argues that criminal organizations such as MS-13 and drug cartels constitute a national security threat, justifying the use of the law.
Supporters say:
The move strengthens law and order, ensuring that dangerous criminals are removed from U.S. communities.
It bypasses lengthy immigration court backlogs, allowing for swift deportations.
Critics warn:
It sidesteps due process, potentially deporting individuals without fair hearings.
It sets a dangerous precedent for using wartime laws in peacetime against domestic populations.
The Supreme Court could strike it down, leading to a legal and political showdown.
2. Freezing Foreign Aid: A Nationalist Pivot or a Diplomatic Blunder?
One of Trump’s first executive actions was a 90-day freeze on nearly all U.S. foreign aid, with the exception of military assistance to Israel and Egypt. The decision has already disrupted global health initiatives, halted humanitarian relief efforts, and thrown international development programs into chaos.
Supporters say:
America First—U.S. taxpayer dollars should prioritize domestic needs over foreign aid.
Many foreign assistance programs lack transparency and are prone to misuse.
Critics warn:
The freeze could worsen humanitarian crises, especially in conflict zones like Gaza, Sudan, and Syria.
Programs to combat HIV, malaria, and famine relief have already been impacted, putting millions of lives at risk.
It undermines U.S. diplomatic influence, allowing China and Russia to fill the void.
3. Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China: A Trade War Redux?
Trump has also reignited global trade tensions by slapping 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% on Chinese goods. While he delayed implementation for Canada and Mexico for 30 days to allow negotiations, tariffs on China took immediate effect.
Supporters say:
It protects American industries and reduces reliance on Chinese manufacturing.
It strengthens border security talks with Canada and Mexico, forcing tougher action on drug cartels.
Critics warn:
Inflation could spike as higher tariffs raise consumer prices on essential goods.
It risks retaliatory tariffs, further straining relations with key allies.
Global markets have reacted with volatility, signaling concerns over another trade war.
4. Transforming Guantánamo Bay Into a Migrant Detention Center
In a stunning expansion of immigration enforcement, Trump ordered the U.S. military to detain up to 30,000 undocumented migrants at Guantánamo Bay. The move, reminiscent of post-9/11 counterterrorism policies, has sparked international outrage.
Supporters say:
It provides a secure location to process and detain migrants without overwhelming U.S. facilities.
It acts as a deterrent, discouraging unlawful border crossings.
Critics warn:
Guantánamo’s legacy as a site for indefinite detention without trial raises grave human rights concerns.
The Cuban government has condemned the move, increasing diplomatic tensions.
It could trigger lawsuits from civil rights groups and humanitarian organizations.
5. Ending DEI Programs: A Cultural Reset or a Step Backward?
Trump’s administration has moved aggressively to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within federal agencies, the military, and international aid programs.
Supporters say:
DEI initiatives promote division, focusing on identity politics rather than merit.
The move eliminates unnecessary bureaucracy, streamlining government operations.
Critics warn:
It removes vital protections for marginalized communities.
Global perception matters—cutting DEI in diplomacy and military programs could damage international credibility.
6. Hiring Freeze and Workforce Reductions in Federal Agencies
Trump’s federal hiring freeze has already rescinded thousands of job offers, including for 2,000 National Park Service employees. The administration argues that a leaner federal workforce will reduce government waste.
Supporters say:
It cuts bureaucratic bloat, making the federal government more efficient.
It aligns with Trump’s goal of reducing federal spending.
Critics warn:
Vital government services could be impacted, from national parks to public safety programs.
It demoralizes federal employees, leading to lower retention rates.
7. Renaming the Gulf of Mexico: Symbolism or Distraction?
One of Trump’s more symbolic yet politically charged actions has been renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America”. The move has sparked diplomatic tensions with Mexico, whose president Claudia Sheinbaum has formally objected.
Supporters say:
It reaffirms U.S. sovereignty and aligns with nationalist policies.
It boosts patriotic sentiment among Trump’s base.
Critics warn:
It creates unnecessary tensions with Mexico, a key trade and security partner.
The renaming lacks any real impact and distracts from pressing policy issues.
The Road Ahead: Bold Leadership or Risky Gambit?
Trump’s first 15 days have set the stage for a turbulent presidency, defined by nationalist policies, immigration crackdowns, and economic confrontations.
For his supporters, these moves fulfill campaign promises and showcase his willingness to shake up Washington.
For his critics, they threaten democratic institutions, global alliances, and economic stability.
With lawsuits mounting, foreign relations fraying, and a divided Congress, the coming months will test whether Trump’s aggressive agenda is sustainable—or if the legal and political resistance will slow him down.
