By Sarah Baafi
Donald J. Trump was inaugurated today as the 47th President of the United States, marking his return to the White House after an unprecedented political comeback. The ceremony, held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to freezing temperatures, officially commenced his second non-consecutive term, making him the first president since Grover Cleveland to achieve this feat.
The inauguration began at noon ET, with Chief Justice John Roberts administering the presidential oath of office. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, was sworn in as the 50th Vice President by Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Following the formalities, Trump delivered a powerful inaugural address centered on unity and optimism, calling for a “revolution of common sense.”
“We are at the dawn of an exhilarating new chapter of national achievement,” Trump declared. “Today, we begin the full restoration of America’s greatness.” He emphasized themes of economic revival, national security, and cultural renewal while promising to lead with “bravery and dynamism.”
The day’s events included a church service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, a tea reception at the White House with outgoing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, and a ceremonial luncheon with congressional leaders. The traditional pass-in-review ceremony featured military honors before a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue.
The evening will culminate with inaugural balls across Washington, D.C., where Trump is expected to address supporters.
Within hours of taking office, Trump plans to sign several executive orders targeting key policy areas:
Energy Policy: Revoking restrictions on oil drilling in Alaska.
Immigration: Ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.
Education and Diversity: Rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federal institutions.
These measures reflect Trump’s campaign promises to “restore American values” and prioritize domestic energy independence.
The inauguration drew high-profile attendees from politics and business, including Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Notably absent were several Democratic lawmakers who boycotted the event in protest.
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