Trump's first day: sweeping pardons, immigration reform, and WHO withdrawal

January 21, 2025, New Delhi: President Donald Trump on his first day back in the Oval Office, after his inaugural speech at Capitol Hills, wasted no time in making a series of sweeping decisions that are set to reshape the political landscape.

In a move that has already sparked widespread controversy, Trump issued nearly 1,600 pardons for individuals convicted or arrested in connection with the 6 January 2021 Capitol riots. Among those set to be released within hours is Enrique Tarrio, the leader of the far-right Proud Boys, with celebrations reportedly already planned in Miami.

The decision to pardon the rioters has been met with criticism. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi described it as an “outrageous insult” to the justice system. Initially, Trump’s Vice President, JD Vance, had suggested that clemency might not extend to those involved in the most violent acts on that day. However, the president opted for a maximalist approach, granting pardons to almost all involved, including individuals convicted of assaulting police officers and vandalising Congressional offices.

The only exceptions to the mass clemency are 14 key ringleaders from the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, who received the longest sentences. Media reports suggested quoting White House that these individuals will have their sentences commuted but will not receive full pardons, meaning their criminal records will remain intact, though they will be freed.

Changing Immigration Policy

In a parallel move, Trump’s administration initiated major changes to the immigration court system. According to reports, the acting head of the US immigration court system and three other top officials were removed from their posts shortly after Trump assumed office. The president and his allies have long been critical of the court system, arguing that it grants asylum too liberally and contributes to backlogs that allow migrants to remain in the country for years before their cases are heard.

Trump reaffirmed his commitment to overhauling immigration policies by declaring a “national emergency” at the southern border. This means that follow up is going to be aggressive aggressive enforcement measures and stricter asylum criteria.

Withdrawal from the World Health Organization

Among the executive actions signed on his first day, Trump moved to initiate the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). He justified the move by citing what he perceives as the US’s disproportionate financial contributions to the organisation, though he hinted that the US could rejoin under more favourable terms in the future.

Other Key Executive Actions

Trump signed several other executive actions in addition to the above orders. These include:

Establishing the “Department of Government Efficiency”, an entity that does not currently exist within the official government framework.

Defending women from “gender ideology” and “restoring biological truth” within federal policies.
Preventing a ban on TikTok, a move that could temporarily halt efforts to restrict the popular social media platform.

Holding former government officials accountable for alleged election interference.
It is just a beginning to Trump’s return to the White House, signalling his intent to implement his campaign promises. While his supporters have praised the moves as a bold step toward restoring conservative values, critics argue that they undermine democratic institutions and international cooperation.