House Republicans Seek to Cement Trump's Executive Orders as Law

 January 22, 2025

House Republicans are now focusing their efforts to transform several of President Donald Trump’s pivotal executive orders into enduring federal laws.

Key legislation is being crafted by Republican legislators to secure the longevity of Trump’s policies, specifically those concerning border control and energy sectors, before the conclusion of his presidential term, Fox News reported.

Focusing on Immigration and Energy Policies

During his presidency, Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders on his initial day in office, a bold move that showcased his administration's priorities. However, the transient nature of executive orders, which can be rescinded by subsequent presidents, has prompted GOP lawmakers to push for a more permanent solution.

Former House Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry articulated the practical necessity of executive actions but criticized them as inferior to the legislative process. He mentioned, "I see him doing things by executive action as a necessity to signal… but they’re not the best way to do things."

Speaker Mike Johnson has voiced his stance on the integral role these executive orders play, describing them as foundational to the House's legislative agenda. He emphasized collaboration between the executive and legislature under an "America First agenda."

Legislative Efforts to Codify Trump's Orders

Rep. Russell Fry highlighted the simplicity of executive orders but stressed their inherent weakness due to dependency on the sitting president's discretion. "I think the executive orders are easy because they require one person," Fry explained.

Adding to this point, Rep. Michael Guest advocated for making Trump's immigration policies, such as the "Remain in Mexico" policy and elimination of the CBP One app, legislative standards. This sentiment is echoed by Rep. Brandon Gill, who recently introduced a bill to reinstate the Remain in Mexico policy, underscoring the severe implications of the ongoing border crisis.

Moreover, Rep. Gary Palmer has shown enthusiasm for bolstering Trump's efforts to roll back Biden's energy directives through legislative actions. This initiative is part of a broader Republican strategy to stabilize former President Trump's legacy against potential reversals by future administrations.

Enhancing Citizenship Laws and Border Control

Rep. Brian Babin has been proactive in introducing a bill aimed at restricting birthright citizenship, following closely on the heels of Trump’s executive order regarding the same issue. This move demonstrates the eagerness among House Republicans to address immigration reform at its core.

Former President Joe Biden had reversed several of Trump’s key executive orders on his first day in office, setting a precedent that Republicans are eager to counter by converting executive decrees into steadfast laws.

This endeavor by House Republicans seeks not only to preserve the controversial policies enacted under Trump but also to prevent similar reversals by future administrations, ensuring these policies withstand the test of time.

In comprehensive discussions about these legislative actions, Rep. Russell Fry pointed out the significance of permanently embedding these reforms into law. This, he argues, would rectify previous legal misinterpretations and abuses.

Republicans aim to secure a lasting effect on U.S. policy by embedding these executive orders in legislation, transcending the often fleeting impact of executive decrees. This assertive move by Republican lawmakers aims at firming up the legislative footprint of a presidency marked by stark policy shifts in immigration and energy.

About Victor Winston

Victor is a freelance writer and researcher who focuses on national politics, geopolitics, and economics.
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