Trump's Continuity of Government Plan: Key Actions
Have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes actions that keep our government running during crises? What measures are in place to ensure continuity when faced with national emergencies?
In his book The Midnight Rider Rides Again, Derek Johnson explores the intricate details of Trump's continuity of government plan. You'll discover key policies and actions implemented from 2015 to 2023 that shaped the government's response to various challenges.
Ready to uncover the timeline of events that influenced our nation's governance? Let's dive in and explore the fascinating world of government continuity.
Trump's Timeline: Key Policies for Government Continuity (2015-2023)
The Foundation: Law of War Manual and Military Justice Act
In June 2015, just days before Donald Trump announced his presidential candidacy, the Law of War Manual was released. This document, which set the legal framework for military leadership, became a cornerstone for the administration of areas under military control and played a crucial role in the continuity of government plan. The manual's timing and content would prove significant as Trump's presidency unfolded, shaping key policies and actions from 2015 to 2023.
Following this, the Military Justice Act was established in December 2016. This act clearly defined the separate spheres of authority between military and civilian judicial systems. It highlighted the unique responsibilities of military commanders, which operate independently from those of the President and the Federal Government.
Activating the Continuity of Government Plan
From 2017 to 2020, Trump implemented several measures that activated the government's contingency plans. These actions were responses to significant national emergencies and orders originating from the President's office.
On December 20, 2017, legislation was enacted to obstruct those involved in corruption and human rights abuses by disrupting their unauthorized financial transactions. This set the stage for more comprehensive measures to come.
In September 2018, the U.S. declared a national crisis due to external meddling in its election procedures. This led to the enactment of Executive Order 13848, which aimed to protect against interference in the electoral system. However, it's worth noting that this directive didn't explicitly exclude internal interference, potentially impacting the tallying of electoral ballots.
The Covid-19 Pandemic and Military Mobilization
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 triggered a series of significant actions. On March 13, 2020, the administration declared Proclamation 9994 in response to the national emergency. Shortly after, on March 27, President Trump used his emergency authority to call up 1 million Reserve force members through Executive Order 13912.
By the end of April 2020, Trump granted the Secretary of Defense the power to call up Reserves to active duty through Executive Order 13919. These actions significantly expanded the military's role in addressing the national crisis.
Establishing the Framework for Government Continuity
Between 2017 and 2022, directives on federal continuity established the framework for maintaining government operations. Federal Continuity Directive 1, implemented on January 17, 2017, outlined methods for the three branches of the U.S. government to systematically address crises. It highlighted strategies for reestablishing functionality and assigning responsibilities during emergencies.
The directive PPD-40 mandated that the United States adhere to a policy ensuring the resilience and safeguarding of governmental structures. This policy focused on consistently carrying out essential governmental functions and preserving governance in accordance with constitutional tenets during any emergencies.
Trump as a "wartime President"
On December 20, 2019, the Space Force was officially established as a new branch of the military. Concurrent updates to military regulations were announced, marking the first major revision since 1950 to the rules governing the conduct of service members.
These changes, along with a thorough analysis of the 1973 legislation related to war powers, granted Trump increased powers in his role as a "Wartime President." In March 2020, Trump declared himself a "wartime president" amid the COVID-19 pandemic, implying that he assumed responsibilities typically associated with a nation at war.
Reporting Military Actions to Congress
Under the War Powers Act's Section 1550, Trump was required to report to Congress on military actions every 180 days. These summaries were expected to outline the nations or organizations involved, assess potential risks, detail the actions taken, and forecast the likely scope and duration of these actions.
The Events of January 6 and Biden's Inauguration
The sequence of occurrences on January 6, 2021, culminating in Biden's swearing-in ceremony, were components of a strategic scheme designed to maintain the uninterrupted operation of governmental duties. The enactment of Executive Order 13848 before these events allegedly invalidated the vote tallying procedure.
Biden's inauguration deviated from traditional practices, more closely mirroring the dignified ceremonies often seen at military funerals. Notably, Biden received a three-volley salute, typically reserved for military funerals, rather than the traditional 21-gun salute that marks the inauguration of a new President.
Continuity Under the Biden Administration
Since the beginning of 2021, policies have continued along the path established by the Trump administration rather than demonstrating unique approaches typical of a new administration. President Biden has extended a range of emergency proclamations and administrative directives initially put in place by Trump.
For instance, Biden has upheld several executive orders from his predecessor's term, such as EO 13818, EO 13848, and EO 13959. These rules pertain to human rights abuses, interference with the United States' electoral mechanisms, and restrictions placed on Chinese corporations.
Notably, Biden hasn't introduced any substantial new measures or directives pertaining to military policy. This indicates a persistent commitment to the strategies established for the continuity of government during Trump's tenure.
Under the War Powers Act, the President is empowered to delegate duties to the Secretary of Defense. A document directed to the Secretary of Defense's office in 2020, in accordance with Section 1550, outlines how the President has delegated duties and authorities assigned to him in sections 1285(a) to (e) of Public Law 116-92.
This action reflects the empowerment sanctioned by Trump, following the directives of Executive Order 13919. The continuation of these strategies under Biden suggests a consistent approach to the continuation of government functions throughout both administrations.