The Trump administration has recently implemented measures to strengthen national security by expanding federal authority. These actions include the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the issuance of Executive Order 14160, which aims to redefine birthright citizenship.
DOGE, created on President Trump’s first day in office, has been tasked with streamlining government operations. Reports indicate that DOGE has accessed databases from agencies such as the Treasury and Health and Human Services (HHS), containing individuals’ financial, health, and social security data. This access is intended to facilitate data-driven decisions on public services and programs. Concerns have been raised about potential data breaches and the impact on public health and safety. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to determine the extent of DOGE’s access to sensitive information. DOGE’s leadership maintains that its employees, embedded within various agencies, are not subject to FOIA requirements. The ACLU has also reached out to over 40 agencies to assess the scope of DOGE’s data access. The situation is evolving, and further developments are anticipated. (aclu.org)
In addition, President Trump signed Executive Order 14160, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” on January 20, 2025. This order seeks to challenge the current interpretation of the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause, aiming to end birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants and those temporarily in the U.S. on visas. The order has faced immediate legal challenges and has been blocked by multiple federal judges. (en.wikipedia.org)
These initiatives reflect the administration’s commitment to enhancing national security and government efficiency. While some concerns have been noted regarding data privacy and legal challenges, the administration continues to pursue these policies. As with any significant policy change, adjustments and oversight may be necessary to address emerging issues. This may involve expanding government staff and regulations to ensure effective implementation.
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Mark Davis writes on constitutional rights, firearms legislation, and state-level legal trends. A graduate of Liberty University with a background in legal research, he has reported on gun rights cases from state courts to the Supreme Court. Before journalism, he worked with a constitutional law nonprofit focused on Second Amendment litigation.