In a series of bold executive actions on his first full day in office, President Donald Trump signed an order attempting to end birthright citizenship and granted mass pardons to more than 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Trump’s executive order directs federal agencies to stop issuing citizenship-related documents—such as passports and certificates—to children born in the U.S. whose parents are in the country illegally or on temporary visas. The move challenges the 14th Amendment, which guarantees that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States… are citizens.”
For over a century, the U.S. government has interpreted this amendment to grant citizenship at birth, regardless of parents’ immigration status. Trump’s order sets the stage for immediate legal battles, with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other advocacy groups already filing lawsuits to block its enforcement.
Additionally, Trump invoked extraordinary presidential powers to suspend U.S. asylum laws, justifying the move by claiming an “invasion” at the southern border. His order authorizes officials to “repel, repatriate, or remove” migrants, effectively halting asylum claims until he deems the situation resolved.
In another controversial move, Trump issued full pardons to over 1,500 individuals convicted or charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack, including prominent far-right leaders: Enrique Tarrio, former Proud Boys leader, sentenced to 22 years; Stewart Rhodes, Oath Keepers founder, sentenced to 18 years (commuted to time served)
Trump’s order also drops all pending cases against Capitol riot defendants, calling them “hostages” and “patriots.” At a White House signing ceremony, he declared, “We hope they come out tonight, frankly.”
Democrats swiftly condemned the mass pardons. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi called them “an outrageous insult” to law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol, while others accused Trump of undermining justice.
On the other hand, Trump’s supporters see the pardons as a fulfillment of his campaign promises to free what he calls “political prisoners”.
Before leaving office, Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons to allies, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the January 6 congressional committee like Liz Cheney. Biden also pardoned close family members, citing “unrelenting attacks” against them.
Trump’s executive orders are expected to face immediate court challenges, particularly the birthright citizenship ban and asylum suspension. Meanwhile, the pardons could reignite debates over justice and accountability regarding the Capitol riot.
As Trump embarks on his second term, his actions signal a hardline approach to immigration, legal battles over presidential powers, and a continued focus on redefining the events of January 6, 2021.
