A political earthquake has rocked Washington DC within the first two days of Donald Trump's unprecedented second non-consecutive term, as the new administration launched an aggressive and controversial policy blitz that critics are labelling a direct assault on democratic norms.
The most dramatic action came with the immediate installation of Matthew Whitaker, a former Trump administration official and fervent ally, as the new acting attorney general. This surprise move, bypassing the usual Department of Justice succession protocol, sent shockwaves through the capital and sets the stage for a potential constitutional showdown.
Immigration Crackdown: The 'Trigger' Directive
Central to the administration's opening salvo is a sweeping executive order on immigration, described by insiders as the 'Trigger' directive. This order mandates the swift mobilisation of National Guard units and the creation of vast detention facilities to facilitate what is expected to be the largest mass deportation operation in modern American history.
The policy specifically targets cities that have adopted sanctuary policies, aiming to strip them of federal funding and compel local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities—a move that has previously faced fierce legal challenges.
Legal Reckoning and Political Fallout
Legal experts and Democratic leaders have reacted with alarm, promising immediate court challenges. They argue the actions represent a dangerous politicisation of the Justice Department and an overreach of executive power that threatens the foundational principle of the rule of law.
The swiftness and scale of the executive actions suggest a administration prepared to test the limits of its authority from day one, ensuring that the United States remains deeply and bitterly divided, with intense political and legal battles looming on the horizon.
