On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order terminating all federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This move has already impacted 395 government employees, according to a senior administration official. Additionally, the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, announced that approximately $420 million in current and upcoming DEI-related contracts have been canceled.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) swiftly directed agencies and department heads to close DEI offices by January 22, placing affected employees on paid leave. The order also mandated the removal of all DEI-related websites, social media accounts, and contracts, with any attempts to disguise DEI efforts under vague language to be reported. By January 23, agency heads had to submit lists of DEI offices, employees, and contracts in effect since November 2024.

Trump’s executive order was part of a series of actions on his first day, which also included policies related to gender recognition and withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement. Two additional executive actions followed on Tuesday: one aimed to prohibit race- and sex-based preferences in the workplace and higher education, and another rescinded a Biden-era policy prioritizing DEI-focused hiring at the Federal Aviation Administration.

This swift action has sparked significant controversy, particularly the cancellation of diversity programs. In his first week, Trump also moved to dismantle several of Biden’s policies, including on climate change and immigration, while also taking action to address the January 6, 2021, attack and pardoning those involved. Trump’s executive pace demonstrated his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and implementing his agenda quickly.