Trump Issues Executive Order Declaring English as the Official Language of the U.S.

 

Trump Issues Executive Order Declaring English as the Official Language of the U.S.

On Saturday, President Trump signed an executive order officially designating English as the primary language of the United States, effectively overturning an executive action put in place by former President Clinton. That previous directive had been aimed at assisting individuals with limited English proficiency.

Under this new order, federal agencies will no longer be mandated to offer language assistance services to non-English speakers.

However, agencies will retain the discretion to provide documents and services in languages other than English if they choose to do so.

Trump emphasized that the purpose of this order is to “promote unity, cultivate a shared American culture for all citizens, ensure consistency in government operations.”

“Speaking English not only opens doors economically, but it helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society,” Trump stated in the order.

“This order recognizes and celebrates the long tradition of multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it to their children for generations to come,” he added.

Additionally, Trump has tasked Attorney General Pam Bondi with issuing updated legal guidance to ensure federal agencies comply with the new directive while adhering to existing laws.

This order officially revokes Clinton’s 2000 directive, which sought to enhance access to federally funded programs and services for individuals facing language barriers due to their national origin.