21Sep, 2025
Weekly Digest: September 2025

Recent Executive Actions and Policies

The last two weeks have brought a wave of executive actions, proclamations, and new policies from the White House. Each of these decisions reflects broader political, economic, and cultural debates shaping the country today. Below is a summary of what happened since our last weekly digest, when it was signed, and why it matters.

TikTok Enforcement Delay Extended

@azra.aars

fast gegen die tĂĽr gelaufen am ende #inmyfeelings #kikidoyouloveme #drake #2018 #fyp

♬ original sound – chachaslide
Apparently this is super important to people, being able to do short videos to music and lip sync. Or for challenges that usually end up getting people hurt.

Date: September 13, 2025
President Trump signed an executive order delaying enforcement of the forced sale or ban of TikTok until December 16, 2025. This move gives the company, lawmakers, and regulators more time to reach an agreement about ownership and data security. Critics argue the extension postpones a decision on national security concerns, while supporters say it prevents disruption for millions of U.S. users.

Emergency Board for Long Island Rail Road Dispute

Date: September 15, 2025
The President issued an order establishing a three-member emergency board to investigate an ongoing labor dispute at the Long Island Rail Road. The board members cannot be affiliated with either the company or the unions. The order does not detail the precise nature of the dispute but confirms involvement from multiple unions, including the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The board has 30 days to report findings.

U.S.–U.K. Technology Prosperity Deal

Date: September 16, 2025
A memorandum of understanding was signed between the United States and the United Kingdom. The deal emphasizes cooperation in nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. While framed as a partnership, some analysts question whether the U.S. intends to use the deal to advance domestic interests or push British adoption of American technologies.

Constitution Week Proclamation

Date: September 17, 2025
President Trump proclaimed September 17–23, 2025 as Constitution Week. Traditionally, this observance encourages reflection on the U.S. Constitution and civic education. Critics, however, note the irony of celebrating constitutional principles at a time when many civil liberties and democratic norms are under strain.

The Gold Card and Platinum Card Immigration Programs

Date: September 18, 2025
The administration announced new immigration pathways — the Gold Card and Platinum Card — which allow wealthy individuals to gain U.S. residency if they invest $1 million or more. While promoted as a way to attract capital, the policy has sparked backlash. Opponents argue it favors the wealthy while restricting opportunities for working-class immigrants and skilled technical workers.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Date: September 19, 2025
The White House recognized National POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring U.S. service members who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action. Ceremonies across the country underscored the enduring commitment to account for those who never returned home. This observance has bipartisan support and remains one of the least controversial presidential proclamations.

Restrictions on Non-Immigrant Workers

Date: September 20, 2025
A new executive action targeted H-1B visa holders and other non-immigrant workers in the tech sector. The order requires foreign workers to pay $100,000 for every 12 months of employment and limits their eligibility to remain in the U.S. The administration framed this as a jobs protection measure for Americans. However, critics say it will destabilize industries that depend on high-skilled foreign labor.

Other Observations: Heritage Foundation and Project 2025

Beyond executive actions, public attention also turned to the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, a policy blueprint for the next conservative administration. A recent chapter calls for ending federal funding of National Public Radio (NPR) and moving children’s programming like Sesame Street entirely off public television. The proposal reflects broader conservative opposition to public education and government-funded broadcasting. Supporters argue it corrects perceived left-wing bias, while opponents warn it undermines free and balanced reporting.

Works Cited