While the uncertain threat of 25% tariffs on random (or all, who the fuck knows) Canadian goods may ruffle a few of our Canadian goose feathers in trade negotiations, they barely register amid the seismic policy shifts reshaping the United States. Since President Trump’s return to office on January 20, 2025, the U.S. has seen mass federal layoffs, sweeping immigration crackdowns, the rollback of DEI and LGBTQ+ protections, abortion restrictions, and aggressive media control. In this whirlwind of domestic upheaval, economic spats with Canada are little more than background noise—an afterthought in a nation grappling with far greater internal reckonings.
Here’s what American’s are attempting to come to terms with (and, yes, 77 million of them voted for this).
US Federal Workforce Reductions
The administration has initiated large-scale layoffs of federal employees, aiming to reduce government size and improve efficiency. A memo directed agencies to submit plans for workforce reductions and program consolidations, with exemptions for law enforcement, national security, public safety, military, and USPS positions. As of February 22, approximately 30,000 federal civil service workers have been laid off, with projections suggesting this number could rise to around 80,000. Notably, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has seen 388 employees dismissed, including nearly 170 from its environmental justice office.
US Immigration Policies
Immigration officials have mandated that all individuals residing in the U.S. illegally must register with the federal government. This directive applies to those aged 14 and above without legal status, with parents or guardians required to register minors. Registered individuals will receive an identity card that must be carried at all times. Critics argue this policy may instill fear within immigrant communities and recall discriminatory practices from the past. AP News
US Budget Adjustments
Despite efforts to cut costs, U.S. government spending has increased to $710 billion in President Trump’s first month, up from $630 billion during the same period last year. Cost-saving initiatives (hahahahaha), led by Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have been offset by increased spending on health and retirement programs, as well as rising interest payments. Additionally, attempts to reduce domestic aid spending have faced legal challenges, hindering their implementation. Reuters.com
US Media and Press Relations
The administration has implemented measures to exert greater control over media coverage. Tactics include lawsuits against major networks, blacklisting certain outlets, and manipulating media access. For instance, the White House now controls media organization choices traditionally managed by the White House Correspondents’ Association. These actions have raised concerns about press freedom and the potential marginalization of critical media outlets. Axios
US Regulatory Changes
On January 20, 2025, the administration issued an executive order titled “Unleashing American Energy,” directing agencies to review existing regulations and identify those that hinder energy production. This move reflects a broader deregulatory agenda aimed at promoting domestic energy industries. Brookings.edu
US Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Rollbacks
It’s a long fucking list.
- Redefined sex and gender as strictly biological. Verywellhealth.com
- Restrictions on gender-affirming care. Verywellhealth.com
- Banned transgender girls from participating in school sports. Teenvogue.com
- Eliminated DEI programs in federal agencies. Reuters
- Abandoning anti-discrimination cases. AP News
Note: Despite federal actions, several prominent U.S. companies have reaffirmed their commitment to DEI initiatives. Companies like Apple, Ben & Jerry’s, Costco, Delta Air Lines, JPMorgan Chase, Microsoft, and Patagonia continue to support diverse and inclusive work environments, emphasizing that such policies are integral to their business success. Time
US Abortion Restrictions
- Reinstated the Global Gag Rule, cutting funding for international reproductive healthcare. ReproductiveRights
- Restricted enforcement of the FACE Act, limiting protections for abortion clinics. CBS News
- Executive order prohibiting federal funding for abortion services. CAL Matters
First Buddy Elon Musk [insert puke emoji here]
Appointment of DOGE Representatives
A recent executive order mandates that all federal agencies appoint a Department of Government Efficiency aka DOGE representative to oversee spending, ensuring transparency and accountability. These representatives are responsible for providing written justifications for expenditures, tracking expenses, and submitting monthly reports to DOGE Administrator Amy Gleason. Politico
Leadership and Structure of DOGE
While Elon Musk has been the public face of DOGE, his formal role remains ambiguous. Officially, Amy Gleason serves as the acting administrator, overseeing modernization efforts in federal technology and data management. Musk holds a “special government employee” status, allowing advisory input without formal decision-making authority. New York Magazine
Controversies and Legal Challenges
DOGE’s operations have faced scrutiny for their secrecy and potential overreach. Multiple lawsuits question Musk’s exact role and the department’s authority, with some judges temporarily restricting DOGE’s access to sensitive government systems due to concerns over confidentiality and constitutional power. Reuters
Resignations and Internal Dissent
The department has experienced internal challenges, with 21 civil service employees resigning in protest against DOGE’s methods and objectives. These resignations highlight tensions within the federal workforce regarding the department’s approach to efficiency and reform. Associated Press
Impact on Cryptocurrency Markets
Elon Musk’s involvement with DOGE has also influenced cryptocurrency markets, particularly Dogecoin. Reports of Musk’s ventures, such as X raising funds at a $44 billion valuation, have led to surges in Dogecoin’s value, with price targets reaching $0.50. FXStreet
Elon Musk’s DOGE has initiated substantial changes within the federal government, aiming to enhance efficiency and transparency. However, these efforts have sparked debates over leadership clarity, operational secrecy, and the broader implications of such reforms.
