Timeline
Sent text to Norwegian prime minister linking Greenland ambitions to Nobel Peace Prize snub
Sent text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on January 18, 2026, linking his desire for complete control over Greenland to the fact that he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump said he no longer feels 'an obligation to think purely of peace' because of the snub. The message was made public and created diplomatic tensions. Critics argued the message was inappropriate and linked territorial ambitions to personal grievances. The message raised concerns about diplomatic professionalism.
Threatened CBS with lawsuit if interview was edited
White House press secretary threatened on January 18, 2026, that the administration would sue CBS 'ass off' if a Trump interview was edited. The threat was made during a press briefing and created concerns about press freedom and intimidation of media. Critics argued the threat violated First Amendment rights and constituted intimidation of journalists. The threat created fear and uncertainty among media organizations. No concrete action was taken, but the threat raised concerns about press freedom.
Tariff threat against 8 European countries over Greenland
Announced 10% tariff on all goods from 8 European countries starting February 1, 2026, escalating to 25% on June 1, 2026, until 'a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland.'
Announced 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran without Congressional authorization
Announced 25% tariff on all goods from 8 European countries (Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, UK) that continue trading with Iran, effective immediately. The tariff was announced without Congressional authorization or proper trade policy process. European leaders condemned the move as violating international trade rules and WTO obligations. The announcement created uncertainty in international markets and raised concerns about trade war escalation.
DOJ launched investigation into Minnesota governor and mayor after ICE protests
DOJ launched criminal investigation into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey on January 17, 2026, following protests after ICE agents shot and killed Renee Nicole Good. Investigation focused on whether local leaders obstructed immigration enforcement. Critics argued the investigation was politically motivated retaliation for opposing federal intervention and Insurrection Act threat. Questions raised about use of DOJ for political purposes.
Created Gaza Board of Peace for reconstruction and temporary governance
Announced creation of Gaza Board of Peace on January 16, 2026, a seven-member commission including Tony Blair, Jared Kushner, and World Bank President Ajay Banga to oversee reconstruction and temporary governance in Gaza. The board was created without proper Congressional authorization or international consultation. Critics called it contradictory to his hard foreign policy elsewhere and raised concerns about governance without Palestinian representation. The board raised questions about U.S. role in Gaza governance and reconstruction.
Threatened to invoke Insurrection Act in Minnesota to suppress ICE protests
Threatened to invoke Insurrection Act on January 15, 2026 to deploy up to 1,500 active-duty soldiers in Minneapolis to suppress protests against ICE operations. Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey strongly opposed federal intervention. The threat came after ICE agents shot and killed Renée Good and wounded Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis during an immigration operation, sparking public protests. The Insurrection Act allows president to deploy military forces domestically, but its use against local protests raises constitutional questions.
Suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries without proper justification
State Department suspended immigrant visa processing for citizens from 75 countries starting January 21, 2026, citing concerns about 'public charge' status. Non-immigrant visas (tourists, students, business travelers) continued to be processed but with stricter screening requirements. Critics argued the suspension disproportionately affected Muslim-majority and majority-minority countries. A Cato Institute study from February 2025 showed immigrants per capita do not receive more government assistance than native-born Americans, contradicting the administration's justification.
Terminated Temporary Protected Status for Somalis and threatened denaturalization
Terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis on January 14, 2026, and threatened to revoke citizenship of naturalized immigrants if they committed fraud, saying they could be quickly deported. The termination affected thousands of Somali immigrants. The threat of denaturalization was made without proper legal basis or due process. Critics argued the termination and threats violated due process rights and constitutional protections. The actions created fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities.
Threatened Federal Reserve independence and launched investigation into Jerome Powell
Publicly criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell in speech at Detroit Economic Club on January 13, 2026, accusing him of failing to lower interest rates quickly enough. Administration threatened criminal charges and issued subpoenas against Fed officials. Launched investigation into Powell and Fed operations, attempting to gain control over monetary policy decisions. These actions undermined the traditional independence of the Federal Reserve from political interference.
Threatened Federal Reserve independence and Chair Jerome Powell
Publicly threatened Federal Reserve independence and Chair Jerome Powell, suggesting Powell should be removed or that the Fed should be brought under greater presidential control. The threats were made during public statements and social media posts. Critics warned the threats undermined central bank independence and could affect monetary policy. No concrete action was taken, but the threats raised concerns about Fed independence.
Threatened Iran with military intervention for protest suppression
Threatened 'very strong action' against Iran on January 13, 2026, if the Iranian regime executed protesters during anti-government protests. The threat was made during public statements and implied possible military intervention. Trump said the U.S. was 'locked and loaded' and that 'help is on the way' for Iranian protesters. Critics argued the threats violated international law and could escalate into military conflict. The threats created uncertainty about U.S. military intervention in Iran.
Threatened Supreme Court with chaos if tariffs are rejected
Threatened the Supreme Court on January 13, 2026, warning of 'complete chaos' if the Court rejects his global tariffs imposed under national economic emergency powers. The threat was made during public statements. Critics argued the threat violated separation of powers and constituted intimidation of the judiciary. The threat raised concerns about judicial independence and rule of law. No concrete action was taken, but the threat created uncertainty about judicial independence.
Fired U.S. Attorney in Virginia after conflicts over illegal appointment
Fired Robert K. McBride as First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Eastern District of Virginia on January 12, 2026, after conflicts with Lindsey Halligan, whose appointment had earlier been ruled unlawful by a federal judge. The firing raised questions about prosecutorial independence and political interference in DOJ. Critics argued the firing was politically motivated retaliation. Legal experts warned this undermined prosecutorial independence and DOJ integrity.
Seized Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera in international waters
US Coast Guard and Navy forces boarded and seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera in international waters between Iceland and the UK on January 7, 2026. The tanker was carrying sanctioned oil cargo. Operation conducted based on US federal court order for sanctions violations, without Russian consent.
Withdrew from UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
United States withdrew from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on January 7, 2026, the climate treaty that has been in effect since 1992. The withdrawal marked a complete reversal of U.S. climate commitments and international cooperation. The withdrawal was announced without proper Congressional consultation or approval. International leaders condemned the withdrawal as undermining global climate efforts. The move isolated the U.S. from international climate cooperation.
Captured Venezuelan president Maduro in military operation without Congressional authorization
US military forces conducted nighttime raid in Caracas on January 3, 2026, disabling Venezuelan air defenses, capturing Maduro and his wife, and transporting them to New York for prosecution. Operation conducted without Congressional authorization, UN mandate, or Venezuelan government consent.
January 2026
DOJ failed to comply with Epstein Files Transparency Act deadline, blocking transparency
Department of Justice failed to meet the December 19, 2025 deadline mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Only approximately 12,285 documents (125,575 pages) were released, representing less than 1% of the estimated 2-5 million documents. DOJ claimed documents required extensive review and redaction by 400+ attorneys. DOJ refused requests from bipartisan lawmakers (Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie) for a special master to oversee compliance. Many released documents were heavily redacted or completely blacked out, undermining transparency goals.
Classified fentanyl as weapon of mass destruction via executive order
Signed executive order on December 15, 2025 classifying fentanyl as a 'weapon of mass destruction.' This was Trump's 221st executive order of his second term, more than in his first term. The classification escalated rhetoric around drug policy and raised questions about appropriate use of WMD classification. Critics argued the classification was inappropriate and could lead to misuse of emergency powers or military resources.
Executive order targeting Susman Godfrey law firm for challenging administration
Signed Executive Order 14263 on December 15, 2025, targeting the law firm Susman Godfrey LLP for challenging administration policies. The order froze security clearances for firm attorneys, restricted access to federal buildings, and threatened termination of government contracts. Critics argued the order violated First Amendment rights and constituted retaliation against attorneys for legal challenges. The order created fear and uncertainty among attorneys representing clients against the administration.
Seized oil tanker in international waters without clear legal basis
US forces boarded and seized the oil tanker 'Skipper' carrying approximately 1.8 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil in international waters near Venezuela on December 10, 2025. Operation conducted without Venezuelan consent and without clear UN mandate. Additional tankers (including 'Veronica') seized in subsequent operations.
December 2025
Threatened to arrest or execute Democratic lawmakers for urging refusal of illegal orders
Threatened to arrest or execute Democratic lawmakers on November 20, 2025 for sharing videos urging military members to refuse illegal orders. Trump called the lawmakers' actions 'seditious behavior' and said they should be 'prosecuted' or 'hanged.' The threats were made during public statements. Critics argued the threats violated First Amendment rights and constituted intimidation of political opponents. No concrete action was taken, but the threats created fear and uncertainty.
Launched investigation into Senator Slotkin for sharing illegal orders video
Launched investigation into Senator Elissa Slotkin and others on November 18, 2025, after they shared videos urging military members to refuse illegal orders. The investigation was described as potentially 'seditious' and could lead to criminal charges. Critics argued the investigation violated First Amendment rights and constituted retaliation against political opponents. Senator Slotkin received bomb threats following the investigation announcement. The investigation created fear and uncertainty among lawmakers.
FBI searched Washington Post reporter's home over classified documents
FBI agents searched the home of Washington Post reporter on November 15, 2025, seeking classified documents related to national security reporting. The search was conducted with a warrant, but critics argued it violated press freedom protections and could have a chilling effect on investigative journalism. The search raised questions about the balance between national security and press freedom. Press freedom organizations condemned the search as intimidation of journalists.
Threatened to cut federal funding to California over transgender athletes
Threatened on November 15, 2025, to cut federal funding to California after Governor Gavin Newsom defended transgender athletes in women's sports competitions. Trump called it 'deeply unfair' and threatened to stop federal money flow to California. The threat was made during public statements. Critics argued the threat violated federalism principles and exceeded executive authority. The threat created uncertainty for California and raised concerns about federalism. No concrete action was taken, but the threat raised concerns about federal-state relationships.
Cut Social Security Administration staffing by 6,500 employees undermining services
SSA lost approximately 6,500 employees through staffing cuts and attrition in 2025, representing significant reduction in workforce. Regional offices were reduced, front offices closed, and wait times increased dramatically. The cuts affected services for elderly, disabled, and vulnerable populations who depend on Social Security benefits. Critics argued the cuts were politically motivated and undermined essential government services.
November 2025
Demolished White House East Wing without proper authorization
Demolished the entire White House East Wing (built 1902, expanded 1942) starting October 20, 2025, without formal approval from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC). The demolition included the colonnade, Family Theater, First Lady's offices, and visitor entrance. Proceeded despite legal challenges and public opposition.
Shared AI-generated video dumping feces on protesters
Shared an AI-generated video on Truth Social on October 18, 2025, showing a 'King Trump' fighter jet dropping brown liquid (resembling feces) on protesters during 'No Kings' protests, including liberal influencer Harry Sisson, with 'Danger Zone' music. The video was widely condemned as inappropriate, dehumanizing, and offensive. Critics argued the video violated norms of presidential conduct and could incite violence. The video created public outrage and raised concerns about use of AI for harassment.
Launched Operation Southern Spear declaring non-international armed conflict with drug cartels
Declared the United States in 'non-international armed conflict' with illegal combatants related to drug cartels in the Caribbean region on October 1, 2025. The declaration authorized new military operations under Operation Southern Spear to attack ships and possible actions in Venezuela. The declaration was made without proper Congressional authorization or War Powers Resolution notification. Critics argued the declaration violated international law and could escalate into broader military conflict.
October 2025
Designated Antifa as domestic terrorist organization via National Security Memorandum
Announced National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 (NSPM-7) on September 25, 2025, titled 'Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence,' designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. The designation was made without proper legal basis or due process. Critics argued the designation violated First Amendment rights and could be used to target political opponents. The designation raised concerns about targeting of protest movements and political dissent. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the designation.
Supreme Court expands presidential power to fire independent agency heads
Supreme Court ruled on September 15, 2025 that the president has broader authority to remove heads of independent agencies (FTC, NLRB, etc.) without cause, challenging the 1935 Humphrey's Executor precedent. Decision potentially undermines independence of regulatory agencies and increases presidential control over independent oversight.
Launched Operation Midway Blitz targeting undocumented immigrants in Illinois
Launched Operation Midway Blitz on September 6, 2025, a large-scale immigration enforcement operation targeting undocumented immigrants in Illinois, particularly in the Chicago area. Operation used aggressive tactics including workplace raids, home raids, and mass arrests. Critics argued the operation violated due process rights and targeted immigrant communities. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the operation's tactics and legality.
September 2025
Revoked security clearances of 37 current and former national security officials
Revoked security clearances of 37 current and former national security officials on August 19, 2025, citing alleged 'political weaponization of intelligence' and other violations, often without concrete evidence in many cases. Critics argued the revocations were politically motivated retaliation against political opponents. The revocations raised concerns about independent advising within the security sector. Legal experts warned this undermined norms around security clearances and could affect national security.
Declared crime emergency in DC and took federal control of local police without proper justification
Signed executive order on August 11, 2025 declaring crime emergency in District of Columbia. Used Home Rule Act §740 to take federal control of Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), removing local control. Deployed National Guard for law enforcement. Removed legislative authority from local DC government. Critics argued the emergency declaration was not justified given declining crime statistics, and that federal takeover violated DC's limited self-governance.
August 2025
Announced 50% tariff on all Brazilian goods
Announced a 50% tariff on all Brazilian goods starting August 2025, citing dissatisfaction with Brazil's policies. The tariff was announced despite the U.S. having a trade surplus with Brazil in 2024. The announcement was made without proper Congressional authorization or trade policy process. Brazilian leaders condemned the tariffs as violating international trade rules. The tariffs created uncertainty in trade relationships and raised concerns about trade war escalation.
Launched Operation Salvo targeting Trinitarios gang in New York City
Launched Operation Salvo on July 8, 2025, targeting the Trinitarios gang in New York City, using aggressive enforcement tactics and mass arrests. Operation was publicly announced on January 8, 2026, following the fatal shooting of an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Critics argued the operation violated due process rights and targeted immigrant communities. Operation created fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the operation's tactics.
July 2025
Deployed military personnel in Los Angeles violating Posse Comitatus Act
Deployed California National Guard and 700 active-duty Marines in Los Angeles in June 2025 for immigration enforcement. Federal courts ruled the deployment violated Posse Comitatus Act restrictions on military use in domestic law enforcement. The deployment was made without proper Congressional authorization or legal basis. Critics argued the deployment violated constitutional protections and Posse Comitatus Act. The deployment raised concerns about militarization of domestic law enforcement.
OMB froze billions in unobligated agency funds without Congressional authorization
OMB under Director Russ Vought began freezing billions of dollars in unobligated funds at multiple agencies starting June 2025. Freezes targeted EPA, NASA, NSF, and other agencies. Plan was to make these freezes permanent if Congress does not intervene. The power of the purse constitutionally lies with Congress; this practice potentially enters a gray area regarding legislation and constitutional authority. Critics argued this violated Congressional spending authority.
Restructured Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to reduce consumer protections
Signed executive order on June 10, 2025 restructuring CFPB to reduce consumer protections. Order shifted CFPB's mission from consumer protection to 'regulatory efficiency' and 'industry competitiveness.' Reduced CFPB's enforcement authority and ability to issue consumer protection rules. Replaced consumer protection focus with industry-friendly policies. Critics argued this undermined the agency's core mission established by the Dodd-Frank Act.
Proclamation restricting entry from 12 countries citing deficient vetting
Signed Proclamation 10949 on June 4, 2025, restricting entry to the U.S. for citizens of 12 countries with 'deficient vetting/screening.' The proclamation was made without proper Congressional authorization or due process. Critics argued the proclamation violated immigration law and constitutional equal protection guarantees. The proclamation affected thousands of travelers and raised concerns about discrimination. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the proclamation.
Ended disparate impact legal theory in civil rights enforcement
Signed executive order on June 1, 2025, declaring disparate impact analyses as 'unconstitutional' and ending existing cases, rights, enforcement agreements, and binding policy measures based on this theory. The order was made without proper legal basis or Congressional authorization. Critics argued the order violated established civil rights law and Supreme Court precedent. The order affected thousands of civil rights cases and enforcement actions. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the order.
June 2025
Executive orders promoting fossil fuels and declaring energy emergency violate constitutional rights
Signed executive orders that: (1) promote coal and fossil fuel development, (2) suppress climate science and reports, (3) declare national energy emergency. Orders bypassed normal regulatory processes and Congressional oversight. Lawsuit filed by children and young adults claiming violation of constitutional rights to life and liberty due to climate impacts.
Used copyrighted works in government social media without authorization
Used copyrighted music, art, and images without authorization on government social media accounts starting May 2025 to promote immigration policy and deportations. Copyright holders protested the unauthorized use, but limited legal recourse exists against federal government. The unauthorized use continued despite protests. Critics argued the use violated copyright law and ethical standards. The practice created concerns about government respect for intellectual property rights.
Launched Project Homecoming mass deportation framework with 20,000 new officers
Announced Project Homecoming on May 9, 2025, a framework for mass deportations requiring DHS to deploy 20,000 new deportation officers, including deputizing local, former federal, and private personnel. The framework included measures for asset seizure, wage sanctions, and expanded enforcement. Critics argued the framework violated due process rights and constitutional protections. The framework raised concerns about mass deportations and targeting of immigrant communities. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the framework.
Executive order ending federal funding for NPR and PBS citing media bias
Signed Executive Order 14290 on May 1, 2025 ending federal funding for NPR and PBS, citing alleged media bias. Order required Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and agencies to withdraw funding. NPR and PBS filed lawsuits challenging the order on First Amendment grounds, arguing it violated free speech protections and the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967. Critics argued the order was politically motivated retaliation against public media.
May 2025
Targeted academic researchers and students for deportation based on political views
ICE and CBP began targeting international students and academic researchers for deportation starting April 2025, focusing on those from certain countries and those engaged in research on politically sensitive topics. Students and researchers were detained or deported without proper due process hearings. F-1 and J-1 visa holders were targeted based on research topics rather than visa violations. Universities reported widespread fear and chilling effect on academic research.
Executive order targeting sanctuary cities and cutting federal funding
Signed executive order on April 15, 2025 targeting sanctuary cities and states that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Order authorized cuts to federal funding and contracts for cities with sanctuary policies. Local governments filed lawsuits challenging the order, arguing it violated federalism principles and exceeded executive authority. Multiple courts blocked parts of the order. Critics argued the order was politically motivated retaliation against cities with different immigration policies.
Executive order preempting state energy regulations to protect fossil fuel development
Signed executive order on April 8, 2025 preempting state energy regulations to protect fossil fuel development. Order targeted states with aggressive climate policy, seeking to remove state laws and regulations that 'hinder energy development.' Order raised questions about separation of powers and federal vs. state rights. Environmental organizations expected legal challenges. Critics argued the order violated federalism principles and state regulatory authority.
Announced sweeping global tariffs under national economic emergency
Announced sweeping global tariffs on April 3, 2025, declaring a national economic emergency. The tariffs included 10% base tariff on all imports, 34% on Chinese goods, and 20% on EU goods. The announcement was made without proper Congressional authorization or trade policy process. International leaders condemned the tariffs as violating international trade rules and WTO obligations. The tariffs created uncertainty in global markets and raised concerns about trade war escalation.
April 2025
Threatened lawyers and attorneys challenging administration policies
Administration threatened lawyers and attorneys who challenge administration policies, with memos and statements suggesting legal consequences for attorneys who file lawsuits against the administration. Pam Bondi was involved in coordinating these threats. Critics argued the threats violated First Amendment rights and could have a chilling effect on legal challenges. No concrete action was taken against specific attorneys, but the threats created fear and uncertainty.
Invoked Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to authorize mass deportation of Venezuelan nationals
Invoked Alien Enemies Act of 1798 on March 15, 2025 to authorize mass deportation of Venezuelan nationals, including those with legal status and asylum seekers. The act, originally designed for wartime use against enemy nationals, was used during peacetime against a specific nationality. Immigration advocates and legal experts argued the invocation was unconstitutional and violated due process rights. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the use of the act, with courts issuing preliminary injunctions blocking some deportations.
Revoked visas and deported international students for pro-Palestine activism
ICE and State Department began revoking F-1 student visas and deporting international students who participated in pro-Palestine protests or expressed support for Palestine, starting March 2025. Students including Rümeysa Öztürk (Turkish student at Tufts) and Mahmoud Khalil (activist at Columbia) were arrested, detained, and deported without proper due process hearings. Visa revocations were based on political expression and activism rather than visa violations. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the revocations as violations of First Amendment rights.
Mass fired probationary federal employees without proper due process
Began mass firing of probationary federal employees starting March 2025, bypassing Reduction in Force (RIF) rules and due process requirements. Thousands of employees were terminated without proper notice or hearings. Federal judges ruled that RIF rules were violated and ordered reinstatement of some employees. Critics argued the firings violated labor rights and due process protections. The firings created uncertainty and fear among federal workers.
Expanded domestic military deployments and formed specialized National Guard units
Expanded use of military personnel within the United States starting March 10, 2025, forming new specialized National Guard units for domestic unrest, deploying troops in cities, and claiming the country is 'under attack from within.' The expansion was made without proper Congressional authorization or Posse Comitatus Act review. Critics argued the expansion violated Posse Comitatus Act restrictions on military use in domestic law enforcement. The expansion raised concerns about militarization of domestic law enforcement.
Executive order designating English as official language of United States
Signed Executive Order 14224 on March 1, 2025, designating English as the official language of the United States and rescinding Executive Order 13166. The order is largely symbolic: agencies are not required to withdraw services in other languages and may continue to provide documentation and communication in other languages if necessary. Critics argued the order was discriminatory and could reduce access to government services for non-English speakers. The order had limited practical impact but was seen as a symbolic statement.
March 2025
Public confrontation with Ukrainian president Zelenskyy in Oval Office violated diplomatic protocols
During live Oval Office meeting on February 28, 2025, Trump and Vance publicly confronted Zelenskyy, accusing him of ingratitude and 'gambling with World War III.' Trump threatened to cut off US military and intelligence support if Ukraine did not agree to peace negotiations with Russia without strong security guarantees. The critical minerals agreement was not signed, joint press conference was cancelled, and Zelenskyy left without resolution. US support was temporarily suspended.
Restricted press access violating First Amendment rights
White House restricted Associated Press access to certain official spaces including Oval Office, Air Force One, and press briefings. AP alleged discriminatory treatment and violation of First Amendment press freedom. Lawsuit filed on February 21, 2025 claiming violation of constitutional rights and due process.
Executive order keeping men out of women's sports
Signed Executive Order 14201 on February 20, 2025, instructing federal agencies and attorneys general that transgender girls and women must be excluded from women's and girls' sports competitions. The order required federal agencies to enforce the exclusion and threatened reversal of records. Critics argued the order violated Title IX and constitutional equal protection guarantees. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the order. The order created uncertainty for transgender athletes and educational institutions.
Created Weaponization Working Group in DOJ to target political opponents
Created Weaponization Working Group within DOJ in February 2025, tasked with investigating 'politicized prosecutions' and 'selective enforcement.' The group treated political opponents and officials who criticized Trump as 'suspected adversaries' even when formal charges were absent. Group operated with broad authority to investigate and potentially prosecute political opponents. Critics argued this politicized the DOJ and violated norms of prosecutorial independence.
Executive order removing government website content on DEI, gender identity, and vaccines
Instructed federal agencies to remove or modify government website content, documents, and pages promoting DEI, gender ideology, vaccines, and related topics starting February 15, 2025. Agencies were required to review and remove content that promoted these topics. The order affected thousands of government web pages and documents. Critics argued the order violated transparency requirements and restricted public access to information. The removals created gaps in public information and raised questions about government transparency.
Executive order sanctioning International Criminal Court
Signed Executive Order 14203 on February 6, 2025, imposing sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The order targeted ICC officials and their families for investigating alleged U.S. war crimes. The sanctions included asset freezes, travel bans, and restrictions on financial transactions. Critics argued the sanctions violated international law and undermined the ICC's independence. The order was condemned by international leaders and human rights organizations.
February 2025
Executive order restricting K-12 education on gender identity and critical race theory
Signed Executive Order 14190 on January 29, 2025 restricting K-12 education on gender identity and critical race theory. Order prohibited schools from teaching content deemed 'anti-American' or 'subversive,' including any education about gender identity or 'discriminatory equity ideology.' Authorized law enforcement investigations of schools teaching such content. Critics argued the order violated academic freedom and First Amendment rights. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the order.
Fired EEOC General Counsel Karla Gilbride
Fired Karla Gilbride, General Counsel of the EEOC, on January 29, 2025. Gilbride was responsible for prosecuting employers for discrimination. The firing raised questions about politicization of oversight and institutional independence. Critics argued the firing was politically motivated and undermined civil rights enforcement. The firing created uncertainty about EEOC's enforcement priorities and civil rights protections.
Froze federal grants without Congressional authorization
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued memo M-25-13 on January 27, 2025 directing all federal departments and agencies to temporarily halt all activities related to awarding or disbursing federal financial assistance (grants, loans, etc.), except where legally or operationally impossible. The freeze was scheduled to take effect on January 28, 2025 at 5:00 PM EST. Multiple states and organizations filed lawsuits. Federal judge Loren AliKhan issued a preliminary injunction on January 28, 2025 blocking the freeze before it took effect, ruling it violated Congressional appropriations authority.
Executive order removing DEI programs from military and reinstating troops fired over COVID vaccine refusal
Signed executive orders on January 27, 2025, removing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from the U.S. military and reinstating troops who were fired for refusing COVID-19 vaccination, with retroactive pay. The orders were made without proper Congressional authorization or military review. Critics argued the orders undermined military readiness and diversity efforts. The reinstatement of troops fired for vaccine refusal raised concerns about military discipline and public health. The orders affected thousands of military personnel.
Terminated parole programs for Venezuelans and Hondurans
Terminated selective parole programs for Venezuelans and Hondurans on January 25, 2025, placing affected individuals into accelerated deportation procedures. The termination affected thousands of immigrants who had been granted parole status. Critics argued the termination violated due process rights and humanitarian principles. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the termination. The termination created fear and uncertainty among affected immigrant communities.
Mass firing of 17 Inspectors General without required Congressional notification
Fired 17+ Inspectors General from agencies including Defense, State, Energy, Interior, Agriculture, Transportation, and Veterans Affairs on January 24, 2025. Fired via email without the legally required 30-day advance notice to Congress or detailed case-specific reasons as mandated by the Inspector General Act of 1978 (amended 2022).
Executive orders removing AI safety regulations and preempting state AI laws bypass Congressional authority
Signed Executive Order 14179 on January 23, 2025 requiring federal agencies to review and potentially revoke existing AI safety and policy measures within 60 days, focusing on 'economic competitiveness' and removing 'ideological barriers.' Created national policy framework to prevent state-level AI regulations. In December 2025, signed executive order creating 'AI Litigation Task Force' to challenge state AI laws, arguing patchwork of state regulations threatens economic growth. Orders bypassed Congressional authority over technology regulation and preempted state regulatory powers.
Executive order prohibiting central bank digital currency
Signed Executive Order 14178 on January 23, 2025, prohibiting the creation or promotion of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and revoking previous frameworks on digital assets. The order established a task force for regulation of digital assets. Critics argued the order bypassed normal regulatory processes and Congressional oversight. The order created uncertainty in digital asset markets and raised questions about Federal Reserve authority.
Attempted to end birthright citizenship via executive order without constitutional authority
Signed Executive Order 14160 on January 20, 2025 attempting to change interpretation of the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause to end birthright citizenship for children of certain immigrants. Multiple federal judges issued preliminary injunctions blocking the order the day after it was signed, ruling that the president cannot reinterpret constitutional amendments via executive order. Supreme Court considered scope of nationwide injunctions without immediately ruling on the constitutional basis of the EO itself.
Executive orders restricting transgender rights and eliminating DEI programs violate constitutional rights
Signed Executive Order 14168 on January 20, 2025 requiring restoration of 'biological sex' (determined at conception), ending federal recognition of transgender people, removing gender self-identification from official documents, ending funding for gender-affirming care. Related orders 14151 and 14173 eliminated DEI programs in federal agencies. Multiple lawsuits filed including National Urban League v. Trump and San Francisco AIDS Foundation v. Trump alleging violations of equal protection, due process, and First Amendment rights. Courts issued preliminary injunctions blocking implementation in several cases.
Executive order restoring federal death penalty and expanding execution methods
Signed Executive Order 14164 on January 20, 2025 restoring federal death penalty and expanding execution methods. Order authorized use of firing squad and other execution methods in addition to lethal injection. Expanded federal death penalty to cover additional crimes. Critics argued the order bypassed normal legislative process and raised constitutional questions about cruel and unusual punishment. Multiple legal challenges filed.
Executive order realigning refugee admissions program to restrict admissions
Signed Executive Order 14163 on January 20, 2025 realigning refugee admissions program to restrict admissions. Order significantly reduced refugee admissions caps and changed eligibility criteria. Parts of the order were blocked by federal courts, which ruled that the restrictions violated immigration law and constitutional protections. Critics argued the order undermined US commitment to refugee protection and violated international obligations.
Executive order enforcing Hyde Amendment and restricting abortion access
Signed Executive Order 14182 on January 20, 2025 enforcing Hyde Amendment and restricting abortion access. Order eliminated federal funding for elective abortion and reversed previous Biden administration orders that expanded abortion-related services. Critics argued the order further restricted access to reproductive healthcare and violated women's rights. The order came after Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, but this EO further tightened federal policy.
Executive order restricting federal censorship and limiting content moderation
Signed Executive Order 14149 on January 20, 2025 restricting federal censorship and limiting content moderation. Order limited cooperation between federal agencies and companies or individuals to exercise 'viewpoint-based restriction' or censorship. Launched investigations into government activities regarding censorship in recent years. Critics argued the order was vague about what constitutes 'censorship' and could enable spread of misinformation. Experts warned the order could undermine content moderation and public safety.
Executive order suspending foreign development assistance for 90 days
Signed Executive Order 14169 on January 20, 2025, suspending all foreign development assistance programs for 90 days for review. Exceptions were made only for military aid to certain countries, food aid, and other humanitarian projects. Programs related to abortion, gender/DEI programs, and transgender operations were explicitly excluded. The suspension affected billions in foreign aid and disrupted development programs worldwide. Critics argued the suspension violated international commitments and harmed vulnerable populations.
Executive order withdrawing from World Health Organization
Signed Executive Order 14155 on January 20, 2025, directing the United States to withdraw from the World Health Organization. The order included stopping funding, recalling government employees working for WHO, and reconsidering pandemic response strategy. The withdrawal was announced without proper Congressional consultation or approval. International leaders condemned the withdrawal as undermining global health cooperation. The move isolated the U.S. from international health efforts.
Launched Operation Safeguard targeting undocumented immigrants in urban areas
Launched Operation Safeguard in January 2025, targeting undocumented immigrants in urban areas for apprehension and deportation. Operation used large-scale enforcement operations and mass arrests. Critics argued the operation violated due process rights and targeted immigrant communities. Multiple lawsuits filed challenging the operation's tactics and legality. Operation created fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities.