Donald Trump was sworn in today as the 47th President of the United States, marking the start of his second term. This historic moment comes as Republicans claim unified control of Washington, setting the stage for efforts to reshape the country’s political landscape.
The ceremony began with a cannon salute and the performance of “Hail to the Chief,” followed by Trump celebrating with his family and Vice President JD Vance. As part of the inauguration, the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” was performed before Trump took the oath of office, swearing to “preserve, protect, and defend” the Constitution.
This marks the first time since the 1890s that a president who had previously lost a re-election bid returned victorious for a second term. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath to Trump, making it official at 12:01 p.m. EST, per the 20th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
In a historic coincidence, this is the third time that a presidential inauguration has occurred on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, following Bill Clinton and Barack Obama’s second-term inaugurations. The holiday, established nearly 40 years ago, is observed on the third Monday in January each year. Senator Amy Klobuchar noted that the alignment serves as a reminder to uphold the values of the Constitution.
Trump’s inaugural address included statements about a “golden age” for America, promising that the country will “flourish and be respected” under his leadership. He also criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the migrant crisis and addressed a national “crisis of trust” in the government.
In a ceremonial show of support, tech billionaires, cabinet nominees, and former presidents were present at the U.S. Capitol’s rotunda for the event.
Shortly before Trump’s swearing-in, President Joe Biden issued pardons for members of his family. Trump, in the hours following the ceremony, is expected to declare a “national emergency” at the U.S.-Mexico border, designate drug cartels as terrorist organizations, and sign an executive order to dismantle government diversity programs. However, sources indicate that no tariffs on trade partners will be announced today.
