Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, marking a historic second term and pledging a rapid series of executive actions targeting immigration and cultural issues
With one hand on a Bible gifted by his mother, Trump took the oath of office beneath the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. The ceremony, moved indoors due to freezing weather, featured a smaller crowd than usual but maintained its traditional solemnity.
Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden arrived at the Capitol together, following a customary tea at the White House with their spouses. Greeting Trump at the door, Biden said, “Welcome home.” In contrast to Trump’s absence from Biden’s 2021 inauguration, this event aimed to restore traditional decorum.
The inauguration drew notable attendees, including former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. However, former First Lady Michelle Obama was notably absent. High-profile business figures, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai, were also present, with Musk playing a significant role in Trump’s campaign and set to influence the new administration’s policies.
Trump begins his second term with an ambitious agenda, signing approximately 100 executive orders to dismantle Biden’s legacy. Among these are plans to declare a national emergency at the Mexico border, end birthright citizenship, and involve the military in immigration enforcement. Additionally, Trump intends to roll back federal diversity programs and redefine gender recognition to biological terms.
The announcement of these policies came after Trump promised a “brand new day” during an inauguration-eve rally, where he vowed to reverse what he described as “four years of American decline.”
At 78, Trump is the oldest president ever sworn into office and only the second in U.S. history to reclaim the presidency after losing it, following Grover Cleveland in 1893. His return to power also carries the distinction of being the first for a president with a criminal record, though charges were dropped following his electoral victory.
Biden, in his final hours as president, issued pre-emptive pardons for family members and several political allies, including Anthony Fauci and General Mark Milley. He also left a private letter for Trump in the Oval Office, continuing a longstanding presidential tradition.
Trump’s second term signals a shift in global dynamics. His administration has hinted at sweeping tariffs, territorial disputes, and a reevaluation of U.S. aid to Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Trump, expressing hope for productive talks on the Ukraine conflict.
While Trump promises a “golden era” for America, his polarizing leadership style and nationalist policies ensure that his return will leave an indelible mark on both domestic and international affairs.
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