Special Poll
President Trump is set to sign an executive order declaring English as the official language of the United States, reversing existing policies that require federal agencies to provide language assistance for non-English speakers. The order aims to encourage immigrants to adopt English as a means of expanding opportunities while still allowing government agencies the discretion to offer services and documents in other languages if they deem it necessary.
According to a fact sheet accompanying the order, agencies will have the flexibility to determine how and when to provide multilingual services in a way that aligns with their mission and best serves the public. The order emphasizes the idea that establishing English as the national language will promote unity, noting that more than 180 countries already have an official language. While over 350 languages are spoken across the U.S., English remains the most commonly used.
The order also acknowledges and honors multilingual Americans who have learned English and passed it down through generations. It overturns a 2000 executive order from former President Clinton that sought to improve access to federal programs for individuals with limited English proficiency due to immigration.
A statement from the administration asserts that a shared language strengthens national cohesion, helps immigrants integrate into American society, and fosters cultural connections. The order is positioned as a way to reinforce a common identity while still allowing agencies some discretion in determining language support based on their specific needs.