In his first year back in the Oval Office, former US President Donald Trump has been a whirlwind of activity, signing a flurry of executive orders, issuing a slew of pardons, and maintaining a prolific presence on his new social media platform, Truth Social. BBC Analysis Editor Ros Atkins takes a closer look at the numbers behind Trump’s eventful return to power.
During his 12 months in office, Trump has signed a total of 91 executive orders, a significant increase from the 55 issued by his predecessor, President Joe Biden, in the same timeframe. These orders have covered a wide range of policy areas, from immigration and healthcare to environmental regulations and foreign affairs.
Alongside his legislative activity, Trump has also been busy wielding his pardoning power. In his first year, the former president has granted 49 pardons and commutations, including controversial figures such as his former advisor Steve Bannon and former Blackwater security contractor Erik Prince.
Travelling has also been a key part of Trump’s agenda, with the former president embarking on 17 domestic trips and 6 international visits during his initial 12 months in office. These trips have taken him to various parts of the United States, as well as destinations such as the United Kingdom, France, and Japan.
Perhaps most notably, Trump has maintained a prolific presence on his new social media platform, Truth Social, which he launched in February 2022. Since its inception, the former president has posted an astonishing 2,143 times on the platform, averaging over 5 posts per day.
These numbers paint a picture of a presidency that has been anything but quiet. Trump’s aggressive use of executive power, his liberal application of the pardon process, his extensive travel schedule, and his constant social media activity all suggest a leader determined to make his mark on the political landscape.
However, the former president’s actions have also drawn significant criticism and controversy. His executive orders have been challenged in court, his pardons have been seen as politically motivated, and his social media presence has been accused of spreading misinformation and divisive rhetoric.
As Trump’s second year in office begins, the question remains: will the former president continue to wield his power with the same intensity, or will he seek to strike a more conciliatory tone in an effort to heal the deep divisions that have characterized his tenure?