Donald Trump pledged swift action on immigration and US cultural issues as he celebrated his extraordinary political comeback.
Donald Trump officially began his second term as president on Monday. In his oath-taking ceremony, he promised an immediate wave of executive orders targeting immigration and US cultural debates. This marks a remarkable return for the 47th US president.
With one hand on a Bible gifted by his mother, Donald Trump raised his other hand to solemnly take the presidential oath. The historic event took place beneath the Capitol Rotunda, a change from the usual outdoor setting.
Tradition Restored Despite Past Contentions
Donald Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden arrived together at the Capitol by motorcade. This ceremony was held indoors due to severe cold, departing from the usual National Mall setting. Earlier, the Bidens hosted the Trumps for traditional tea at the White House.
“Welcome home,” Joe Biden said as he and First Lady Jill Biden greeted Donald Trump and Melania Trump. This gesture aimed to restore traditions disrupted in 2021 when Donald Trump skipped Biden’s inauguration, citing unproven claims of electoral fraud.
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Notable attendees included former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. While Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush attended, Michelle Obama notably abstained.
Wealth and Power Surround Donald Trump
In contrast to his outsider status in 2017, Donald Trump’s second inauguration showcased influential attendees. Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai were present alongside Trump’s family and cabinet members. Musk, a significant campaign donor, will spearhead cost-cutting measures in the new administration.
A Global and Unconventional Audience
Unlike most US inaugurations, foreign leaders attended this event. Argentina’s president Javier Milei and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni joined the ceremony. Bitter cold forced the event indoors, the first such occurrence since Ronald Reagan’s 1985 inauguration.
Donald Trump’s Policy Agenda Unveiled
Donald Trump plans to immediately issue around 100 executive orders reversing Biden’s policies. These include declaring a national emergency at the Mexico border and deploying the military to enforce immigration laws. Trump aims to end birthright citizenship and prioritize only two biological sexes in federal recognition. He also seeks to eliminate federal diversity programs.
In a rally on the eve of his inauguration, Donald Trump described his plans as a “brand new day” and vowed to end “four years of American decline.” He emphasized his resolve to tackle national crises with “historic speed and strength.”
Public Reactions and Unusual Precedents
Despite frigid conditions, some Trump supporters gathered near the National Mall. The Fairchild family, who traveled from Michigan, expressed their excitement. “Ecstatic,” said Barb Fairchild, describing the family’s sentiments.
Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons for family members and key figures, including Anthony Fauci and Mark Milley, to shield them from future investigations. He also upheld the tradition of leaving a letter for Donald Trump, keeping its contents private.
Historical and Global Implications
Donald Trump, at 78, is now the oldest president to assume office. He is also the second US president to regain the presidency after losing it, following Grover Cleveland in 1893. Additionally, Trump’s criminal record from his first term adds a unique aspect to his presidency.
Globally, Donald Trump’s return signals potential upheaval. He has hinted at sweeping tariffs, territorial ambitions, and reevaluating US aid to Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin extended congratulations, expressing hope for peace talks regarding Ukraine.
