Unveiling Trump’s Directives: A Deep Dive into New Executive Orders

Man clapping in front of large American flag
US President Donald Trump walks through onto the stage in front of a crowd. 5 Of November 2020. Washington , DC, USA

President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders target sweeping reforms in the Treasury Department, national security, and election integrity in America.

Key Takeaways

  • Trump’s executive orders include mandates for stricter election protections, requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.
  • Treasury Department reforms will transition to electronic payments to combat fraud more effectively.
  • The revocation of security clearances for employees of certain law firms is intended to address potential national security risks.
  • The orders condition federal election funding on state compliance with federal integrity measures.
  • The goal is enhanced election integrity through accurate voter lists and a uniform Election Day.

Revamping Election Integrity

President Trump signed an executive action aimed at bolstering U.S. elections. This includes requiring residents to present documented proof of U.S. citizenship to register and ensuring all ballots are received by Election Day. Such stringent measures reflect an effort to safeguard voter registration and maintain accountability in state and federal elections. Compliance is tied to federal election funding, adding a layer of oversight to guarantee adherence to these new protocols.

The orders also emphasize fostering collaboration between states and federal agencies to share resources and prosecute election-related crimes. Federal assistance extends to verifying voter eligibility and maintaining accurate voter lists, with the Department of Homeland Security playing a pivotal role. Incorporating biometric databases is suggested, paralleling systems abroad.

Strengthening the Treasury Department

Within the executive orders, another significant focus lies in modernizing the Treasury Department’s operations. Transitioning to electronic payment systems by September 30, 2025, is at the forefront of mitigating the rampant fraud and abuse in government payment processes. White House staff secretary Will Scharf stated, “Historically, checks issued by the Treasury are, I believe, 14 times more likely to become the subject of fraud than electronic transfer payments.”

Orders also enhance the Treasury’s capacity to detect improper payments, rooting out fraud with efficiency. Further collaboration with federal agencies will ensure tighter procedures are in place to cover vulnerabilities within current payment systems.

Addressing National Security

National security is not overlooked, as another order suspends security clearances for employees of Jenner & Block LLP, citing potential risks to U.S. interests. The move is part of broader scrutiny over firms suspected of engaging in inappropriate or dangerous activities.

“We’ve taken action against a number of law firms that have participated either in the weaponization of government, the weaponization of the legal system for political ends, or have otherwise engaged in illegal or inappropriate activities,” stated Scharf.

Through these measures, the administration seeks to better protect national interests, reinforcing security practices and minimizing vulnerabilities that could jeopardize American safety.

Sources:

  1. Trump overhauls US elections in new executive order, including proof of citizenship | AP News
  2. Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections – The White House
  3. Trump Signs Fresh Batch of Executive Orders on Treasury, Election Integrity