High-profile policies and controversies marked Donald Trump’s presidency, but it also featured a series of actions and achievements that may not have received widespread attention. These lesser-known moments, often overshadowed by headline-grabbing events, contributed to the legacy of his time in office. From policy changes to international negotiations, here are 18 things Donald Trump did as president that you might have missed.
Criminal Justice Reform
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The First Step Act represented a significant bipartisan achievement, signaling a collective effort to address mass incarceration and prison conditions in the United States. By signing this legislation into law, President Trump demonstrated his commitment to criminal justice reform, albeit amidst a busy policy agenda.
Right to Try Act
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The Right to Try Act, though less discussed, held profound implications for patients facing terminal illnesses. Trump’s support for this act signaled a compassionate stance, ensuring that those with limited options could explore experimental treatments, potentially improving their quality of life.
Opportunity Zones
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As part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Opportunity Zones aimed to invigorate economically distressed areas. While the spotlight was often on tax cuts, this initiative reflected Trump’s economic agenda, designed to boost investment in communities facing economic challenges.
USMCA Trade Deal
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Renegotiating a major trade agreement may have been overshadowed by other global events, but the replacement of NAFTA with the USMCA represented a significant diplomatic and economic achievement. The Trump administration addressed contentious trade issues that had long been in the spotlight.
Space Force
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The creation of the U.S. Space Force was a historic moment, though its announcement might have been lost amidst discussions on other military branches. Recognizing the importance of space security, Trump’s administration elevated this concern to a new level of attention and action.
Puerto Rico Earthquake Response
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Amid the overshadowing concerns of previous disasters in Puerto Rico, Trump’s response to the earthquake series in the region demonstrated his administration’s commitment to disaster relief and assistance in the face of multiple crises.
5G Security Concerns
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Addressing security concerns around 5G technology required keen awareness and Trump’s ability to draw attention to national security issues. His emphasis on these potential risks conveyed the importance of protecting critical infrastructure.
Veterans’ Healthcare Reforms
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Trump’s healthcare reforms for veterans, although overshadowed by broader healthcare debates, marked a significant step toward improving the lives of those who served the nation. The increased access to private medical care underscored his administration’s commitment to supporting veterans.
Opioid Crisis Declaration
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Declaring the opioid crisis a national public health emergency was a major step in the fight against opioid addiction, even if it was not as widely discussed. By taking this action, Trump demonstrated his dedication to addressing this public health crisis head-on.
Defunding the WHO
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The decision to withdraw U.S. funding from the WHO was marked by controversy. Yet, it was an example of Trump’s assertive approach to international organizations, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency, particularly during a global pandemic.
Federal Right to Try Act
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Beyond state-level right-to-try laws, the Federal Right-to-Try Act extended access to experimental treatments. While less publicized, this act opened doors for those in critical medical situations, enhancing their options.
Deregulation Initiatives
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Deregulation measures were a key part of Trump’s economic agenda. Although they might not have captured headlines, these initiatives aimed to stimulate economic growth and reduce government bureaucracy, impacting numerous industries and businesses.
Native American Concerns
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Bills addressing Native American concerns highlighted the administration’s commitment to supporting tribal programs and preserving land rights, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities.
Space Exploration Initiatives
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Trump’s strong support for space exploration, often overshadowed by other issues, laid the groundwork for NASA’s ambitious plans to return to the moon and beyond. This support ensured that the United States remained a significant player in space exploration.
School Choice Advocacy
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Trump’s advocacy for school choice offered parents more educational options for their children. While discussions about education policy often took a back seat to other issues, this commitment aimed to provide families with greater flexibility.
Reduced Drug Prices
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In the pursuit of lowering prescription drug costs, the Trump administration introduced policies and executive orders that had the potential to make a significant impact on healthcare expenses. These initiatives may not have received as much attention as other healthcare debates.
Food Security Initiatives
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The programs and legislation initiated to enhance food security, especially for low-income families and children, were essential during times of economic uncertainty. Trump’s administration took steps to ensure that essential needs were met, even if these actions were not as widely covered.
Combating Human Trafficking
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Recognizing human trafficking as a grave concern, the Trump administration’s allocation of resources and launch of anti-trafficking initiatives reflected a commitment to tackling this issue both domestically and internationally, even if it remained outside the limelight of daily politics.
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