Since returning to the White House on January 20, President Donald Trump has issued an unprecedented 79 executive orders, addressing topics ranging from transgender rights to foreign policy. Among the latest is a declaration making English the official language of the United States.
No U.S. president has signed so many executive actions in such a short span since 1937, according to the Federal Register.
With the Republican Party holding only narrow majorities in Congress, Trump has relied on executive orders to push his agenda, targeting trade, civil rights, and federal bureaucracy. However, his sweeping actions have also faced significant legal pushback.
Over a Dozen Orders Challenged in Court
The Federal Register has documented all executive orders issued since January 20. By February 27, 16 of these had already been challenged in court, according to tracking by Just Security at New York University School of Law.
Economy and Trade
Economic policy has been a major focus, with 27 orders related to trade, customs duties, and energy. Trump has imposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico, levied a 10% duty on Chinese imports, and declared a “national energy emergency” in a bid to expand domestic oil production. He has also taken action against electric vehicles, wind energy projects, and environmental policies like the use of paper straws.
Gender, Diversity, and Immigration
Fourteen orders have targeted diversity and gender-related policies, reflecting Trump’s efforts to roll back workplace programs addressing racism, sexism, and inequality. Meanwhile, immigration remains a key area, with 15 executive orders issued, including one halting refugee admissions, citing national security concerns. Another controversial order aims to reinterpret the 14th Amendment, which grants citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil, sparking legal battles.
English as the Official Language
In his 77th executive order, Trump officially designated English as the U.S. national language, a move with significant cultural and political implications.
Government Restructuring and Technology
Six orders have granted authority to the Department of Government Efficiency, headed by Elon Musk, who has been tasked with cost-cutting measures. Meanwhile, 10 executive orders focus on technology, including two targeting cryptocurrency regulations.
Withdrawal from the WHO
Trump has also taken steps to reverse policies implemented under his predecessor, Joe Biden. Thirteen health-related executive orders include the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the reversal of protections for abortion pill access and abortion data privacy.
His flurry of executive actions underscores his determination to reshape U.S. policies, but many of them are expected to face legal and political hurdles in the months ahead.
