Trump’s “Shock and Awe” Strategy

Donald Trump’s second term has begun with a familiar strategy: a barrage of executive orders designed to “shock and awe”. This approach, reminiscent of his first term, aims to overwhelm the public and the media, making it difficult to mount a coherent opposition. However, beneath the surface of this perceived strength lies a series of actions that threaten civil rights and democratic principles.

A Flurry of Executive Orders

Trump’s initial actions have been characterized by a rapid succession of executive orders that target a wide range of areas, including:

• Pardons for January 6th Attackers: Trump pardoned and commuted the sentences of more than 1,500 people charged with crimes in the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. This includes individuals who attacked police officers and threatened members of Congress, sending a signal that violent extremist groups have permission if they believe they are acting in accordance with the administration’s wishes.
• Rescinding Civil Rights Protections: He has moved to undo his predecessor’s pro-civil rights legacy, rescinding executive orders on racial equity, access to voting, census and apportionment, protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and artificial intelligence.
• Undermining the 14th Amendment: Trump issued an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents or temporary residents. This order was swiftly challenged and blocked by a judge.
• Attacking Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: Two executive orders seek to dismantle DEI efforts in the federal government and pressure other organizations to roll back diversity practices. This includes the repeal of a long-standing executive order that addresses discrimination in federal contracting.
• Weakening Protections for Transgender Individuals: Another order seeks to redefine sex and gender, directing agencies to remove references to nonbinary people and prohibiting recognition of gender identity.
• Attacks on the Federal Workforce: Trump issued an executive order seeking to impose drastic changes, known as “Schedule F” reforms, which would force tens of thousands of civil servants to serve the president’s political aims. He also offered buyouts to many federal workers.
• Resuming Federal Executions: After the Biden administration reinstated a moratorium, Trump has directed the attorney general to pursue the death penalty for “all crimes of a severity demanding its use”.

The Strategy Behind the Chaos

According to Steve Bannon, the goal is to “flood the zone” and overwhelm the media with so much information that no coherent opposition can emerge. This tactic is designed to create a sense that Trump is in absolute control, with the intention of making it more likely that people will accept him governing as a king. However, this approach is not without its flaws and limitations.

The strategy has led to confusion and disarray, as seen in the chaotic implementation of a federal spending freeze. The freeze led to widespread outcry and confusion as programs such as Medicaid, Meals on Wheels, and Head Start were impacted. The White House later rescinded the order in response to a judge’s order and media coverage.

The Limits of Executive Power

There are limits to the president’s power. Legislative and judicial checks prevent overreach. Congress can override executive orders with a two-thirds majority, refuse to allocate funding for their implementation, and federal agencies can delay or refuse to implement them. Furthermore, federal courts can strike down executive orders that exceed a president’s constitutional authority.

Several of Trump’s executive actions are already facing legal challenges. For example, a judge blocked Trump’s birthright citizenship executive order, calling it “blatantly unconstitutional”.

Call to Action

We must recognize the threat of Trump’s “shock and awe” strategy and take action. This approach relies on the public’s perception of power rather than actual strength. Trump is not all-powerful, and his actions are being met with resistance. It is crucial to:

• Stay Informed: Understand the details of Trump’s executive orders and their potential impact on civil rights and democracy.
• Support Legal Challenges: Advocate for and support legal actions that challenge unconstitutional and discriminatory policies.
• Engage in Civic Action: Make your voices heard by voting, contacting elected officials, and joining grassroots movements.
• Build Coalitions: Work with diverse groups to ensure no one is left to face these threats and actions alone.
• Reject Fear Mongering: Don’t believe the claim that Trump is all-powerful; recognize the attempts to sow division and instead unite in the fight for justice.

We must stand together to defend the rights guaranteed in the Constitution and resist any attempt to discriminate against, oppress, scapegoat, or marginalize members of our communities.

Photo by Kayla Velasquez on Unsplash