WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday declaring English as the official language of the United States, a move that rescinds a 25-year-old policy requiring federal agencies to provide language assistance to non-English speakers.

Trump stated that English has been the nation's language since its founding and emphasized that making it official would promote unity, streamline government operations, and encourage civic engagement.

"Speaking English not only opens doors economically but also helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society," Trump said.

He argued that the designation would reinforce shared national values and create a more cohesive and efficient society.

The executive order is expected to negatively impact immigrant communities, particularly those seeking language assistance for integration and public services.

Advocacy groups have criticized the move, saying it could limit access to essential services for millions of non-English speakers.

Within hours of assuming office in January, the Trump administration shut down the Spanish-language version of the White House website and social media accounts, signaling a shift toward English-only government communications.

Trump’s latest order aligns with his hardline stance on immigration, which includes plans for mass deportations and stricter migration policies.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump ridiculed non-English speakers, stating that migrants who do not speak English are being "dropped" into US communities.

Spanish remains the second-most spoken language in the US, with 62% of those who speak a language other than English at home speaking Spanish, according to a 2022 US Census Bureau report. — Agencies