Janice R. Andrews
Presidential Powers Wielded: New Term Brings Sweeping Changes
The early phase of President Trump’s renewed administration has been marked by extensive use of executive authority to implement significant institutional changes. Initial promises of prioritizing national advancement appear to have shifted toward organizational restructuring and personnel changes.
Key developments include modifying former President Biden’s security clearance status, paralleling a similar action taken against Trump after January 6th. Trump announced this change through social media with characteristic directness.
The administration has initiated changes at several institutions. At the Kennedy Center, there are plans to restructure the board of trustees, including the proposed removal of Chairman David Rubenstein. The administration cites a desire to usher in what it terms a “Golden Age in Arts and Culture,” though the Center reports no formal notification of these changes.
Administrative changes have extended to federal positions, including the removal of Archivist Colleen Shogan. Security arrangements for several former officials, including Mark Esper, Mike Pompeo, and General Mark Milley, have been modified despite existing security concerns.
The newly established Department of Government Efficiency, under Elon Musk’s leadership, has been central to implementing various administrative changes. Their initiatives include restructuring USAID and attempting to modify Treasury access, though the latter faced judicial intervention.
On the international front, policy shifts include withdrawal from climate agreements and adjustments to foreign aid allocations. A proposal regarding Gaza’s development has generated substantial international discussion.
These collective actions represent significant institutional changes, prompting increased scrutiny from domestic and international observers concerned about governmental stability and democratic processes.
