On his first day of his second term, President Donald Trump signed executive orders to dismantle federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, placing all DEI staff on leave. He pardoned Jan. 6 rioters and Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht. Trump’s meeting with GOP leaders focused on tax cuts, regulatory reforms, and upcoming budget talks. He emphasized plans for AI infrastructure investment and expressed intentions to visit states hit by disasters.
Trump also fired John Bolton’s Secret Service detail and announced new tariffs on Canada and Mexico to address immigration and drug issues. Controversial actions included revoking birthright citizenship and a hiring freeze impacting veteran care, which prompted lawsuits and political tension. Finally, Trump defended his pardons and reiterated his support for America’s national interests, as newly appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged diplomatic support for Trump’s “America First” policies.