Trump’s First Day Back: Pardons, Policy, and Power Moves \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ On his first full day of his second term, President Donald Trump issued over 1,500 pardons, including to individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol police on January 6, 2021. He defended the clemency decisions while meeting with GOP leaders to outline legislative priorities and announced a $500 billion AI investment project. Trump’s actions sparked controversy and highlighted the dramatic start to his return to office.
Trump’s First Day Back: Quick Looks
- Capitol Riot Pardons: Trump granted clemency to over 1,500 people, including Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders convicted of seditious conspiracy.
- AI Initiative: Announced Stargate, a $500 billion AI infrastructure project in collaboration with industry leaders.
- Power Moves: Fired over 1,000 presidential appointees, including high-profile figures, via social media.
- Criticism: Law enforcement groups and faith leaders condemned his actions and rhetoric.
- GOP Strategy Meeting: Discussed tax cuts, disaster aid, and leveraging Senate recess for appointments.
Deep Look
Pardoning Capitol Rioters: A Controversial Start
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump defended his sweeping clemency decisions for individuals convicted of crimes during the January 6 Capitol attack, including assaults on police officers. The unprecedented pardons, which freed over 1,500 people charged in connection with the insurrection, marked the president’s controversial return to power. Trump justified his actions, calling the sentences “ridiculous and excessive,” and described the individuals as “people who actually love our country.”
Among those pardoned were Enrique Tarrio, leader of the Proud Boys, and members of the Oath Keepers, both groups central to the events of January 6. Tarrio had been serving a 22-year sentence for seditious conspiracy before his release. Some members of these groups even marched in Washington as Trump was sworn in for his second term.
The pardons drew sharp criticism from major law enforcement organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Fraternal Order of Police. In a joint statement, they expressed deep disappointment, stating that those convicted should serve their full sentences.
Political Signals: Proud Boys and Oath Keepers in Focus
When asked if there was a place for the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers in U.S. politics, Trump offered a noncommittal response, saying, “Well, we have to see.” His comments, along with the pardons, sparked concerns about the normalization of extremist groups.
Trump had previously gained notoriety for telling the Proud Boys to “stand back and stand by” during a 2020 debate with then-candidate Joe Biden. His clemency decisions seem to reaffirm his connections to such groups, even as critics warn of the implications for democratic norms.
Economic Agenda: AI and Infrastructure Investments
Amid the controversy, Trump unveiled an ambitious $500 billion artificial intelligence initiative called Stargate, developed in collaboration with industry leaders like SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison. Stargate aims to bolster AI infrastructure over the next four years, with construction already underway in Texas.
The initiative builds on plans initiated during Biden’s administration, highlighting a rare area of continuity. Analysts see Stargate as a key move to position the U.S. as a global AI leader, but details about funding and implementation remain unclear.
Power Moves: Firing and Replacing Appointees
Trump began his first full day in office by removing over 1,000 presidential appointees who he claimed were not aligned with his vision. Using his Truth Social platform, he announced the firings with his signature phrase, “YOU’RE FIRED!” High-profile figures like chef José Andrés, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms were among those dismissed.
While some of those named had already submitted resignations, the firings underscored Trump’s focus on consolidating control. Comparisons were drawn to Biden’s similar moves during his first term, highlighting the partisan nature of transitions in U.S. leadership.
GOP Strategy Session
Later in the day, Trump met with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune to outline the Republican Party’s priorities. Discussions covered tax reforms, disaster aid, regulatory changes, and the looming government funding deadline in March.
The meeting, described by insiders as “more of a date than a marriage,” reflected the challenges of uniting the GOP under Trump’s leadership. Senate Republicans raised the possibility of using recess appointments to expedite the president’s Cabinet selections, a move likely to spark further partisan clashes.
Polarizing Moments: Faith Leaders and Public Reactions
Trump also attended a national prayer service at Washington National Cathedral, a customary event for new presidents. However, the Right Rev. Mariann Budde, a critic of Trump, used her sermon to call for compassion toward marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals and undocumented workers. Trump dismissed the service, saying, “Not too exciting, was it? They could do much better.”
Public backlash to Trump’s actions extended to his pardons, with law enforcement groups and faith leaders denouncing his rhetoric. Despite this, Trump signaled confidence in his approach, declaring, “We’re back,” and promising “shocking” actions in the days ahead.
A Divided Nation Faces an Uncertain Future
Trump’s bold and polarizing first day back in office underscores the deep divisions within the United States. His pardons, economic initiatives, and power consolidations highlight a presidency that will continue to challenge norms and provoke debate. With controversial decisions already defining his second term, Trump’s leadership promises to remain a focal point of national and international attention.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.