Donald Trump signs new executive order that could make him one of the most powerful presidents in history
Experts believe that Donald Trump’s decision to take a step that previous presidents of the United States have avoided is a move that has the potential to dramatically expand his authority.
“In his second term, the president has swiftly signed a series of bold executive orders, making waves in both domestic and international affairs. Among the most notable moves are renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, imposing new tariffs on Canada and China, and introducing regulations that limit the participation of transgender women in sports.”
“Earlier this month, President Trump took significant steps by creating the White House Faith Office, a new initiative set to replace the previous Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. He also made headlines by ending the use of paper straws in federal procurement and reversing mandates that required schools to administer the Covid-19 vaccination. On February 18, the 78-year-old president signed a new executive order that places autonomous government agencies directly under the oversight of the White House.”
“Implications for Non-Governmental Organizations”
“Under this new order, regulatory agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are now required to submit draft regulations for presidential approval, rather than independently approving them. Furthermore, these agencies are expected to collaborate with legislators to align their strategic priorities, marking a significant shift in how regulatory decisions are made.”
“The order extends to all agencies, including those previously deemed independent, with the notable exception of the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy. This distinction is key, as it underscores the president’s authority over all executive branch officials, while the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is responsible for overseeing fiscal matters. The order also clarifies, stating, ‘The President and the Attorney General will interpret the law for the executive branch, preventing conflicting interpretations by separate agencies.'”
“President Trump has voiced strong disapproval of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), criticizing them for wielding significant influence without being held accountable to the president. He claims their regulatory actions have already cost the nation billions and vows to ensure that any future regulations undergo a rigorous review process. ‘Executive power without accountability has no place in our Republic,’ the directive asserts, highlighting this crucial point. Trump further emphasized that the Founding Fathers established a single President to ensure laws are enforced in a lawful manner, reinforcing the need for centralized oversight.”
“Adjustments to Operations and Supervision”
“Russell Vought, currently serving as the acting director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, will be tasked with setting performance standards for agency leaders. Vought will provide regular updates to President Trump on the effectiveness of these agencies and offer recommendations for budget adjustments that align with the president’s objectives.”
“Extending Presidential Authority”
“President Trump is consolidating executive power like never before, bringing independent agencies under his direct control and expanding his influence across the government. This move represents a significant shift in the balance of power, marking an unprecedented extension of presidential authority in modern times.”
“Unlike his predecessors, including Barack Obama, who respected the independence of these agencies, President Trump is challenging the longstanding tradition of keeping them autonomous. Many of the agency heads currently under Trump’s supervision have, historically, outlasted the very presidents who appointed them.
Trump’s bold move has the potential to solidify his place as one of the most powerful presidents in U.S. history, as he redefines the scope of presidential authority.”
