President Donald Trump returned to office after being inaugurated on January 20, 2025. A lot has happened since then. Whether or not you follow politics closely or stay updated with the latest news, understanding what’s happening is important. Here is a breakdown of everything you need to know.
Pardons for January 6 Rioters
Trump’s first act was issuing full pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals charged or convicted in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, including those accused of assaulting police or using deadly weapons. When asked why he pardoned those who attacked officers, Trump claimed the rioters faced “unfair trials” and referred to them as “J6 hostages.” Critics argue the pardons undermine accountability for violence against law enforcement, with Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling it a “Golden Age for people that break the law.
Executive Orders on Birthright Citizenship
Trump signed an executive order reinterpreting the 14th Amendment to deny citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants. Legal experts immediately challenged the order, noting the 14th Amendment’s text is clear: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” A federal judge temporarily blocked the order after 22 states sued, calling it “blatantly unconstitutional.”
Declassifying JFK Files
Trump signed an executive order declassifying government documents on the assassinations of President Kennedy, his brother and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, and civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. “A lot of people were waiting for this… for years, for decades,” Trump said in signing the release of the documents. “Everything will be revealed.”
Exiting Global Agreements
Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization (WHO), mentioning the financial burdens and disagreements over pandemic policies, stating, “China pays $39 million, we pay $500 million.” Referring to the WHO, he added, “A little unfair.” Critics warn the moves could isolate the U.S. during health crises and weaken global climate efforts to control climate change.
Rolling Back LGBTQ+ and DEI Protections
A series of executive orders banned Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in federal agencies and revoked protections for LGBTQ+ individuals by only recognizing two genders: male and female. These executive orders include reversing Biden-era policies on transgender military service and anti-discrimination measures. Advocacy groups condemned the orders, calling them a setback for marginalized communities.
Response to Illegal Immigration
Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, mobilizing the military and reinstating policies like “Remain in Mexico.” ICE raids began immediately, only targeting “criminal aliens,” though advocates fear this will extend to all undocumented immigrants. Over 1,100 arrests were reported in the first week. Trump also threatened to cut funding to “sanctuary cities” resisting federal immigration enforcement.
Clash with Colombia Over Deportations
Colombian President Gustavo Petro refused to accept deportation flights, criticizing the U.S. for “dehumanizing” treatment of migrants and for throwing them in military planes. Trump retaliated with sanctions, including 25% tariffs on Colombian goods for the first week and 50% for the second. It worked, as Colombia reluctantly agreed to accept migrants, even offering a presidential plane. Critics were worried since consumers would pay the tariffs, with many stating coffee prices could rise significantly. Although Petro agreed to Trump’s demands, he blasted the U.S. on X for its “greedy intimidation tactics.”
Controversial Appointments
Trump’s pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, narrowly won Senate approval despite allegations of sexual assault, financial misconduct, and domestic abuse. Many Republicans voted against him. Vice President JD Vance had to cast the tie-breaking vote. Hegseth was accused of abusing his ex-wife, who stated that they even had an escape plan. Furthermore, he paid $50,000 to a woman who accused him of rape, though no charges were ever brought up.
Targeting Cartels as “Terrorists” and Gulf of America
Trump labeled drug cartels, specifically Mexican drug cartels, as “Foreign Terrorist Organizations.” When asked if this means that U.S. troops could enter Mexico, he responded, “Could happen… stranger things have happened.” Additionally, he renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of Americas,” a change Google Maps says it will acknowledge.
New Agency Led by Elon Musk
A new Department of Government Efficiency, set to launch in July 2026, will be headed by Elon Musk, with the goal of reducing unnecessary federal spending. Musk recently made headlines for doing a Nazi salute at a victory rally after saying, “My heart goes out to all of you.” However, Musk denied the association, calling it a “Roman salute.”
Stripping Fauci’s Security Protection
Dr. Anthony Fauci, a frequent Trump target during the pandemic, lost his Secret Service protection. Trump has blamed Fauci for the COVID lockdowns and vaccine policies. Believing that Trump would target him and other officials, Biden issued a full pardon to Fauci and others before leaving office to prevent this.
Disaster Response
After visiting the destruction in North Carolina and California, Trump spoke about dismantling FEMA and redirecting funds to local governments. He allowed those affected by the destruction to share their stories with the media. He accused local leaders of letting insurance companies “abandon” residents, though critics worry the plan could slow or even reduce emergency aid.
Backlash from Religious Leaders
Bishop Marianne Budde, during a nationally televised inaugural sermon, pleaded for compassion toward immigrants and LGBTQ+ youth, stating, “I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” she said. “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives.” Budde preached, “The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals,” calling them “good neighbors” and “faithful members” of religious communities. Trump and others looked visibly disturbed. Afterwards, Trump posted on Truth Social, calling the bishop a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater” and “nasty in tone.” However, thousands have come out in support of the bishop, calling her brave.
In just seven days, Trump has changed policies on immigration, climate, healthcare, and global relations. Supporters have praised his quick action and for delivering on his campaign promises, while opponents warn of constitutional violations and a loss of rights. The Supreme Court will have the ultimate say on whether to uphold Trump’s executive orders.
