• February 17th, 2025
  • Monday, 03:00:33 PM

Standing up to the President’s Recklessness


U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO)

Last week, Donald Trump kicked off his presidency by signing a flurry of executive orders that showcase his reckless disregard for our democracy and the American people. His actions do nothing to address the real challenges we face. Instead, they undermine our values and threaten the progress we’ve made over the last four years.

One of the most shocking actions was his pardon of those convicted in the January 6th insurrection. I was in the Capitol gallery that day and served as an impeachment manager. I knew firsthand the former president’s actions could not go unpunished. These pardons are an attempt to rewrite history and erase accountability for his role in one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.
Trump also announced the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization, undermining our ability to respond to biological threats, whether natural or deliberate. At a time when global cooperation is critical to public health, this decision leaves us vulnerable.

Additionally, his executive orders on immigration are deplorable. Sweeping promises of “mass deportation” and a near-total ban on immigration—even for those with valid visas—are cruel and shortsighted.

 

The U.S. Constitution guarantees certain basic rights to everyone living in this country, including undocumented immigrants.

 

None of these actions address the cost of living, improve the lives of everyday Americans, or tackle the pressing issues we face. Instead, they echo the chaos of Trump’s 2017 Administration—many are illegal, unconstitutional, and harmful to our democracy.

 

These actions will not go unanswered. Congress has the authority and responsibility to reverse most of these decisions, and I, alongside my House Democratic colleagues, will fight against them.
In light of Trump’s myriad of executive orders, I joined Jake Tapper to talk more about how these harmful decisions could play out in the coming weeks. You can watch our conversation here.

 

I remain committed to fighting for policies that strengthen our democracy, protect our communities, and reflect the best of who we are as Americans. And I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle who share these goals.

 

Last week also marked 52 years since the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade ruling. For nearly five decades, Roe safeguarded the ability of individuals to make deeply personal decisions about their bodies and futures. But just two years ago, the Court reversed Roe, and the fallout has been devastating across the country.

Even in Colorado, where abortion access is constitutionally protected, the impact is felt. The influx of out-of-state patients has created delays, making it harder for residents to receive timely care.
This moment is deeply personal. My granddaughter now has fewer rights than I had at her age. As co-chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, I am resolutely committed to standing up to the threats posed by the Trump Administration and restoring the full spectrum of reproductive care for every American.

Lastly, given the fear and uncertainty our community is facing, I wanted to remind you that my office remains a resource for you. The U.S. Constitution guarantees certain basic rights to everyone living in this country, including undocumented immigrants.

If you or someone you know are unsure of their rights when faced with these immigration threats, you can find resources that may help you on my website.
As always, if you have any questions about this or any other issue, please call my office at 303-844-4988, or visit my website at DeGette.House.Gov where you can learn more about how my staff and I are available to assist you.

 

Congresswoman Diana DeGette serves Colorado’s 1st District of Colorado.