President Donald Trump has announced that he will sign an executive order next week reversing the federal ban on plastic straws and ending what he calls the Biden administration’s “woke crusade” against consumer choice. The Biden-era policy, which phased out single-use plastics like straws, cutlery, and cups in favor of alternatives such as paper, is now officially on the chopping block.
“Back to Plastic!” Trump Declares
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “I will be signing an Executive Order next week ending the ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws, which don’t work. BACK TO PLASTIC!” His announcement quickly gained widespread support from his base, including notable figures like Elon Musk, who commented, “Greatest President ever!”
The move is seen as part of Trump’s broader effort to roll back what he views as excessive environmental regulations and restore common-sense policies. Critics of paper straws often highlight their lack of durability and complaints about how they affect the taste of beverages. Trump himself has previously mocked the paper straw push, calling it an example of misplaced priorities.
Why Plastic Straws Are Making a Comeback
Supporters of the executive order argue that the push for paper and other alternative materials has proven more harmful than beneficial. A 2023 Belgian study found that paper straws contained higher levels of harmful chemicals known as PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” than plastic straws, raising concerns about their environmental impact and potential health risks.
“The irony here is that the so-called environmentally friendly alternative is potentially more harmful to people and the environment,” said conservative policy analyst Tom Willis. “Banning plastic straws was never about science—it was about signaling virtue.”
The Biden administration’s push for paper straws was part of its broader environmental agenda, aimed at reducing plastic pollution. However, many states and local jurisdictions implemented their own bans or restrictions, often creating confusion and frustration among consumers. Trump’s new executive order will allow federal facilities to revert to using plastic straws and is expected to influence ongoing debates at the state and local levels.
Consumer First Approach
Trump’s announcement underscores his administration’s focus on practical policies that prioritize convenience for everyday Americans over sweeping environmental mandates. “This isn’t about saving the world with paper straws,” said Trump during a recent speech. “This is about letting people enjoy a soda or coffee without dealing with a soggy mess after two minutes.”
Many Americans have expressed frustration with paper straws since their introduction, complaining that they dissolve quickly and degrade the drinking experience. “Plastic straws worked just fine, and no one complained until the government started meddling,” said Jessica Carter, a restaurant owner in Texas. “Good riddance to paper straws.”
Backlash and Future Impact
While some environmental groups have criticized the decision, Trump’s supporters argue that the administration is restoring personal choice and rejecting overregulation. “If you want to use a paper straw, go ahead,” said Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO). “But don’t force the rest of us to suffer through ineffective solutions that don’t actually help the environment.”
The executive order is expected to be just the first in a series of reversals targeting unnecessary regulations passed during the Biden administration. “We are undoing the damage of excessive government interference,” Trump said. “This is what leadership looks like—standing up for Americans’ right to live their lives without being told what straw to use.”
With the announcement, businesses and consumers alike are applauding the return of plastic straws, seeing it as a victory against the growing trend of “symbolic” environmental regulations that, they say, do more harm than good.