Following an unprecedented January that saw 77 executive orders signed (46 on Inauguration Day alone), President Donald Trump maintained his momentum throughout February with over two dozen additional executive actions. These orders deliver on key campaign promises while bypassing potential congressional gridlock, addressing critical issues from border security to government inefficiency.
Securing America’s Borders
President Trump’s border security efforts took center stage with his February 1st orders imposing 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada. Citing “an unusual and extraordinary threat” at both borders, Trump leveraged America’s economic power to compel immediate action on illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
The strategy proved immediately effective—within just 48 hours, both nations had taken sufficient initial steps that Trump issued follow-up orders pausing the tariffs until March 4th to allow time for implementation of these commitments.
Similarly, the 10% tariff imposed on Chinese imports directly addresses China’s role in the fentanyl crisis devastating American communities. The order specifically targets the Chinese Communist Party’s “subsidizing and incentivizing” of chemical companies producing fentanyl precursors.
Reclaiming Energy Independence
The February 14th establishment of the National Energy Dominance Council signals Trump’s determination to reverse his predecessor’s anti-energy policies. The council, chaired by the Secretary of Interior, is tasked with expanding “all forms of reliable and affordable energy production” to drive down inflation and create jobs.
The order specifically directs the council to “rapidly and significantly increase electricity capacity” and facilitate approvals for energy infrastructure, including natural gas pipelines to underserved regions. This represents a direct reversal of policies that contributed to soaring energy prices during the Biden years.
Reforming International Commitments
President Trump has moved decisively to reevaluate America’s relationships with international organizations that work against American interests. The February 4th order withdraws from the UN Human Rights Council, ends funding to UNRWA (which employed individuals involved in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel), and initiates a review of UNESCO membership.
The February 6th order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court protects American and Israeli personnel from politically motivated prosecutions. By targeting ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, who issued arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, Trump has demonstrated his willingness to defend America’s sovereignty and allies.
The comprehensive February 4th directive on Iran reinstates “maximum pressure” on the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, addressing the nuclear threat, ballistic missile program, and support for terrorist proxies.
Cutting Government Waste
The President’s February orders targeting government inefficiency fulfill his promise to drain the swamp. The February 11th workforce optimization initiative establishes a 1:4 replacement ratio for federal employees and directs preparation for “large-scale reductions in force.”
The February 19th order eliminating “unnecessary” governmental entities—including the Presidio Trust and Presidential Management Fellows Program—begins the process of pruning federal excess.
Perhaps most significant is the February 18th order requiring “independent” regulatory agencies to submit their regulations for White House review, ensuring unelected bureaucrats cannot implement policies without presidential oversight.
Protecting Traditional Values
Several February orders address social issues of importance to Trump’s base. The February 5th directive on “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” protects women’s athletics by withholding federal funds from institutions allowing biological males to compete against women.
The February 6th task force to “Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias” addresses discrimination against Christians by government agencies, while the February 7th White House Faith Office ensures faith-based organizations can partner with government without impediment.
Demonstrating his commitment to American families, Trump’s February 18th order on expanding IVF access aims to make treatment more affordable for couples struggling with fertility challenges.
A Promise-Keeping Presidency
President Trump’s February executive actions demonstrate his dedication to fulfilling campaign pledges without delay. While legal challenges to some orders may emerge, the administration has crafted these directives with constitutional boundaries in mind.
These orders represent more than policy changes—they signal a fundamental reorientation of government priorities from global institutions back to American citizens, from bureaucratic growth to government efficiency, and from progressive social experimentation to traditional values.
The first two months of Trump’s second term prove this administration understands that voters elected them for bold action, not incremental change. Through decisive use of executive authority, President Trump continues to deliver exactly what he promised: Making America Great Again, one executive order at a time.
Disclaimer: This is an opinion piece. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any political organization. This is an opinion piece protected by the First Amendment.
