GOP strategist: Trump’s executive orders aren’t reform. They’re an abuse of power. | Opinion
The inauguration of a new president is a cherished American tradition and a moment of pride for millions of U.S. citizens. It embodies the enduring spirit of our democracy. The peaceful transfer of power remains the cornerstone of our republic, a testament to the strength of our institutions and a reminder to the world that in America leaders are “elevated by the will of the people.”
For President Donald Trump, his second inauguration marks a historic political comeback. People can debate the how and why of Trump’s return to power, but it’s a reminder of the resilience of American democracy and the ever-present possibility of renewal and redemption.
Trump began his inaugural address on Monday with the bold declaration, “The golden age of America begins right now!” But while he tried to paint a picture of endless possibilities, much of the speech felt small and petty. It lacked the sweeping vision expected of such a moment. Instead, it devolved into a list of campaign promises, gripes and red meat for his supporters.
Hope is what unites us as a nation. For many Americans, there is hope that Trump can do the things that he promised. For others, there is hope that Trump will not descend into the totalitarian rule that some fear is inevitable. Trump missed an opportunity to inspire more people by missing a chance to strike a tone of unity, hope and promise for all Americans.
Like many, I, too, have my concerns about Trump. Not about his policies. I agree with much of what he wants to do. My concern is how Trump will achieve his agenda.
On his first day of office, Joe Biden signed nine executive orders. Barack Obama only signed five executive orders during his first week of office. According to published reports, Trump plans to sign close to 100 executive orders or even more on day one of his presidency.
What Trump allies call this a sweeping reform of government; we should call it what it really is: a blatant abuse of power.
Yes, Trump campaigned on a promise to take these actions. But Trump also took an oath “to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States,” and Article 1 establishes Congress, not the president, as the branch that makes laws.
Truth is, I don’t really blame Trump. Presidents have long tried to expand executive power.
I blame House and Senate Republicans for abdicating their authority and allowing Trump to bypass Congress and further strip away power from the people. I blame them for abandoning core Republican principles so that Trump can get a quick media hit instead of having meaningful debates on key issues in both chambers of the Congress.
House and Senate members are the representatives of the people, and we sent them to Washington to fight for us. They are part of a co-equal branch of government — a vital piece of our system of checks and balance — and it’s time they start acting like it.
Admittedly, there is a limited window to get things done – the 2026 election is just around the corner. But how we do things in America is as important as what we do. It’s what separates our government from dictators and kings.
The Founding Fathers worried about the power of the executive and the potential for tyranny. To safeguard liberty, they placed power firmly in the hands of the people, ensuring that leaders could not rule unchecked or impose their will without the consent of the governed.
The inauguration of a new president always marks a new chapter in our nation’s story. It is a day of hope, optimism and the boundless promise of what we can achieve together. It is a moment to dream big, to believe in the potential of our people, and to embrace the opportunities ahead.
I want Trump’s presidency to be the continuation of the conservativism ushered in by Ronald Reagan. It is my hope that we return to the fundamentals of our Constitution and set the stage for the dawn of a new age of American excellence.
This story was originally published January 20, 2025 at 3:40 PM with the headline "GOP strategist: Trump’s executive orders aren’t reform. They’re an abuse of power. | Opinion."