By Mummy Grace Trump’s Bold Moves Spark Outrage, Lawsuits, and Uncertainty Across America
Washington: President Donald Trump’s sweeping executive orders have triggered lawsuits in multiple states, stranded migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, and drawn calls for compassion from religious leaders alarmed by the potential fallout.
Returning to the White House, Trump wasted no time enacting one of the boldest displays of presidential power in recent history. Among the most contentious decisions was his sweeping pardon of nearly all January 6 rioters, provoking outrage from lawmakers, police, and even some Republicans who watched high-profile instigators walk free.
“Expect shocking changes,” Trump said during the announcement of a $500 billion artificial intelligence initiative, flanked by tech leaders like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. The project aims to build massive data centers and energy plants, signaling a significant shift in federal priorities.
Legal Challenges Erupt Over Immigration Policy
Trump’s order to revoke automatic citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented migrants prompted swift legal action. Eighteen Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit, claiming the move violates the 14th Amendment, which guarantees birthright citizenship. Critics warn the order could render children born after February 19 stateless, leading to potential deportations.
Anthony Romero, executive director of the ACLU, vowed to fight the order. “This attack on future generations will not stand,” he declared.
Immigration Crackdown Intensifies
The administration also expanded immigration police powers, allowing arrests in previously restricted areas like schools, hospitals, and churches. “Criminals will no longer hide in sensitive locations,” the Department of Homeland Security announced.
While Trump had promised the largest deportation program in U.S. history, initial reports indicated no immediate action in sanctuary cities like Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson pledged to resist federal enforcement efforts, advocating for the rights of undocumented migrants.
Federal Bureaucracy Overhaul
Trump’s first days in office also saw a sweeping purge of federal employees linked to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The Office of Personnel Management directed agencies to lay off DEI staff and remove related content from government websites.
Pardons for January 6 Rioters
Hundreds convicted of crimes related to the January 6 Capitol riots were released following Trump’s controversial pardons. While they were greeted as heroes by supporters, the decision faced sharp criticism from Democrats and some Republicans.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the move “an insult to our justice system,” while Republican Senator Susan Collins said she opposed pardons for violent offenders.
Two prominent figures, Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes, were among those freed. Trump defended his decision, calling their sentences “ridiculous and excessive,” though he faced backlash for releasing individuals who had attacked police officers.
Foreign Policy Takes Shape
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Quad partners from Australia, India, and Japan shortly after his swearing-in. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong welcomed the discussions, highlighting the administration’s focus on the Indo-Pacific region as a positive for Australia.
Wong also advocated for the U.S.-Australia trade relationship, emphasizing its mutual benefits amid Trump’s plans to impose tariffs on Mexico and Canada.