Trump undoes stack of ‘harmful’ Biden executive orders, shrinks multiple agencies

President Trump Rolls Back 19 Biden-Era Executive Orders, Targets Cost-Cutting and Government Downsizing

In a significant move to reverse policies implemented by the Biden administration, former President Donald Trump announced on Friday the rollback of 19 executive orders he deemed "harmful." The orders, signed during President Joe Biden’s tenure, covered a wide range of topics, including gender ideology, labor policies, and environmental initiatives. Trump’s decision is part of a broader effort to scale back government operations, reduce spending, and streamline federal priorities. The move has been met with both praise and criticism, reflecting the deeply divided political landscape in the United States.

Targeting Energy and Environmental Policies: The End of the "Green New Scam"

Among the executive orders rescinded by Trump was one related to the Defense Production Act, which had been used to advance the Biden administration’s "Green New Deal" agenda. This order had mandated the promotion of electric heat pumps and solar panels, among other green energy initiatives. Trump labeled these efforts as part of a "Green New Scam," suggesting that the policies were overly burdensome and ineffective. By rolling back this order, Trump aims to reduce what he views as unnecessary government overreach in the energy sector. The move is expected to have implications for the development of renewable energy projects and the broader push toward sustainability goals.

Gender Ideology and Foreign Policy: A Shift in U.S. Diplomacy

Another key area targeted by Trump’s rollback was gender ideology. The Biden administration had issued an executive order that elevated the promotion of gender ideology in U.S. diplomacy and foreign aid. Trump criticized this approach as "radical" and out of step with American values. By rescinding this order, Trump signaled a shift in how the U.S. will approach issues related to gender and sexuality on the global stage. The move has been welcomed by conservative groups who had long opposed the Biden administration’s stance on these issues. However, it has also drawn criticism from advocates who argue that the rollback will harm LGBTQ+ rights and American influence abroad.

Labor Policies and Union Prioritization: A Blow to Organized Labor

Trump also took aim at Biden-era labor policies, specifically an executive order that prioritized union-driven initiatives. The order had been a key part of the Biden administration’s efforts to strengthen labor unions and promote collective bargaining. By rescinding it, Trump dealt a significant blow to organized labor, which had seen the order as a major victory. The move is likely to have far-reaching consequences for workers’ rights and the balance of power between employers and employees. Trump has framed the rollback as a way to reduce regulatory burdens and promote economic freedom, but labor advocates argue that it will undermine worker protections and exacerbate income inequality.

Downsizing Government Agencies: A Push for Efficiency and Accountability

In addition to rolling back executive orders, Trump has also taken steps to downsize the federal government. As part of a cost-cutting initiative, Trump reduced the functions of several government agencies, including the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, the United States Agency for Global Media, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, among others. The White House has framed these changes as necessary to eliminate non-essential functions and streamline government operations. The effort is being led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a group headed by Elon Musk that has been tasked with identifying and eliminating wasteful spending. DOGE has already overseen the cancellation of billions of dollars in government contracts and grants, as well as layoffs within multiple agencies.

The Broader Implications: A New Direction for America?

President Trump’s actions are part of a larger effort to usher in what his administration has dubbed a "new golden age for America." The White House has emphasized that these moves are intended to restore efficiency, reduce government overreach, and promote accountability. While supporters of the president see this as a necessary corrective to the Biden administration’s policies, critics argue that the rollbacks will have negative consequences for the environment, labor rights, and international relations. As the debate over these changes continues, one thing is clear: Trump’s actions represent a significant shift in the direction of the federal government, with far-reaching implications for the country’s future.