12 Trump Executive Orders Simplified

The presidency of Donald Trump was marked by a significant number of executive orders, each aiming to address various aspects of American policy, from immigration and healthcare to environmental regulations and national security. Among the numerous executive orders issued during his term, 12 notable ones have been selected for simplification and analysis. These orders represent a wide range of policy areas and have had significant impacts on the country.

Introduction to Trump’s Executive Orders

Executive orders are official documents issued by the President of the United States, used to manage the federal government and outline policies. During his presidency, Donald Trump utilized this executive power extensively, issuing over 220 executive orders. These orders covered a broad spectrum of issues, from domestic policy to foreign affairs, and were often controversial, reflecting the divisive nature of Trump’s presidency.

1. Executive Order 13767: Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements

Issued on January 25, 2017, this order aimed to enhance border security and enforce immigration laws more effectively. It included provisions for the construction of a physical wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and called for an increase in the number of border patrol agents and immigration judges. The order also expanded the categories of undocumented immigrants prioritized for deportation.

2. Executive Order 13768: Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States

Also issued on January 25, 2017, this order focused on interior enforcement of immigration laws. It emphasized the removal of undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes, expanded the definition of “criminal” for deportation purposes, and threatened to withhold federal funds from “sanctuary cities” that do not cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

3. Executive Order 13769: Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States

Signed on January 27, 2017, this highly controversial order, often referred to as the “travel ban,” suspended the admission of refugees and blocked citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States. The order was revised twice due to legal challenges but ultimately led to a Supreme Court ruling upholding a modified version of the ban.

4. Executive Order 13771: Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs

Issued on January 30, 2017, this order required federal agencies to repeal two existing regulations for every new regulation they issue, with the goal of reducing regulatory costs. It was part of Trump’s broader effort to deregulate the economy and was particularly aimed at reducing the burden on businesses.

5. Executive Order 13772: Core Principles for Regulating the United States Financial System

Signed on February 3, 2017, this order outlined the Trump administration’s principles for regulating the financial system, focusing on promoting American businesses, preventing taxpayer bailouts, and advancing economic growth. It laid the groundwork for future deregulatory actions in the financial sector.

6. Executive Order 13777: Enforcing the Regulatory Reform Agenda

Issued on February 24, 2017, this order established regulatory reform officers and task forces within federal agencies to identify regulations for potential repeal or modification. The goal was to implement the administration’s agenda of reducing regulatory burdens on businesses and individuals.

7. Executive Order 13780: Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States

Signed on March 6, 2017, this order was a revised version of the original travel ban (EO 13769), aimed at addressing legal challenges by removing Iraq from the list of targeted countries and clarifying that lawful permanent residents were not subject to the ban.

8. Executive Order 13781: Comprehensive Plan for Reorganizing the Executive Branch

Issued on March 13, 2017, this order initiated a comprehensive review of the executive branch to identify areas for reorganization and reduction. It was part of the administration’s effort to streamline government operations and reduce costs.

9. Executive Order 13783: Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth

Signed on March 28, 2017, this order aimed to promote American energy independence by rolling back several Obama-era environmental regulations and policies, particularly those related to climate change. It included instructions to review and potentially rescind the Clean Power Plan.

10. Executive Order 13788: Buy American and Hire American

Issued on April 18, 2017, this order sought to strengthen the “Buy American” principles in federal procurement and to reform the H-1B visa program to prioritize American workers. The goal was to promote American products and labor in government contracts and to tighten the rules for foreign workers in the U.S.

11. Executive Order 13800: Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Federal Networks and Critical Infrastructure

Signed on May 11, 2017, this order focused on improving the cybersecurity of federal networks and critical infrastructure. It emphasized the importance of risk management, encouraged the adoption of modern cybersecurity standards, and recognized the critical role of cybersecurity in national security and the economy.

12. Executive Order 13823: National Security Presidential Memorandum on Strengthening the Policy of the United States Toward Cuba

Issued on June 16, 2017, this order rolled back parts of the Obama administration’s policy of engagement with Cuba, tightening restrictions on travel and commerce with the island. It prohibited American companies from doing business with entities linked to the Cuban military and intelligence services.