A host of tech billionaires and global leaders turned out in Washington, D.C., on Monday for Donald Trump’s inauguration, showcasing a mix of high-profile political and business figures.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who was seen admiring the ornate ceiling of the Capitol rotunda, attended alongside notable tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai. Musk, a prominent Trump backer during the campaign, is expected to lead an “efficiency” department in the new administration. He was spotted chatting with Google CEO Pichai, while Bezos and his partner, Lauren Sanchez, were seated nearby.
Apple CEO Tim Cook and TikTok CEO Zhang Yiming were also present, the latter attending after Trump pledged to grant TikTok a reprieve from a temporary U.S. ban that took effect over the weekend.
Argentina’s far-right president, Javier Milei, was seen laughing and chatting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Milei, known for his unconventional appearance and outspoken style, was among the world leaders making a high-profile appearance.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, who had been invited to the event, was not in attendance, according to prior statements from Trump’s spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt.
Other notable figures included former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who sat alongside Zuckerberg and Bezos during the inauguration ceremony at St. John’s Church.
UFC President Dana White, a longtime Trump ally, was seen at the event, suited and standing near former President Barack Obama. White has often hosted Trump at UFC events, helping boost his popularity among younger voters.
Nigel Farage, leader of the UK’s Reform Party and a longtime Trump supporter, is believed to be in Washington but has not yet been seen at the ceremony. Over the weekend, Farage posted a photo from a Trump rally, declaring, “We are so back.” He has also been spotted alongside UK property developer Nick Candy and former British SAS operative Ant Middleton, who is pursuing a political career.
As Trump begins his second term, the presence of tech leaders and global figures suggests a strategic alignment of interests. Many attendees, including top business leaders, are closely watching how the president’s policies might impact their industries and international relations.
