President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order Wednesday aimed at consolidating control over U.S. foreign policy, reaffirming the Secretary of State’s authority over diplomatic personnel and mandating strict adherence to the President’s foreign policy agenda.
The order, titled “One Voice for America’s Foreign Relations,” seeks to eliminate inconsistencies in diplomatic messaging and ensure that all foreign service officers and State Department employees operate under direct presidential authority. It also grants the Secretary of State broad discretion to revise diplomatic procedures, including personnel recruitment, evaluation, and retention.
Strengthening executive control over foreign policy
The order asserts the President’s constitutional power over foreign relations and empowers the Secretary of State to enforce compliance among diplomatic personnel. Any failure to uphold the administration’s directives could result in professional discipline or removal.
“The President’s foreign policy must be implemented with unity and clarity,” the White House stated. “This order ensures that diplomatic actions align fully with President Trump’s vision for America’s interests abroad.”
Diplomatic reforms and personnel changes
A major component of the order is a directive for the Secretary of State to reform the Foreign Service, including recruitment and training programs to ensure only the most “qualified and committed” individuals represent U.S. interests. The Secretary will also have sole discretion to amend or replace the Foreign Affairs Manual and other operational documents guiding the diplomatic corps.
Under the new framework, officials appointed by the Secretary can face disciplinary action for policy deviations, while presidential appointees will be subject to White House review.
America First in diplomacy
The executive order builds on President Trump’s broader “America First” foreign policy, which prioritizes national interests and sovereignty over international alliances. On his first day in office, Trump signed an “America First Policy Directive”, instructing the State Department to align all diplomatic efforts with U.S. strategic priorities.
“No longer will America be undermined by foreign interests or bureaucratic inefficiencies,” the White House said.
The administration maintains that the order will streamline foreign relations and prevent diplomatic missteps. However, critics argue that increased executive control could weaken independent diplomatic negotiations and politicize the Foreign Service.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].