Inauguration Day Highlights: Trump’s Speech, Biden Departs Capitol/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th U.S. president, marking his return to power and the start of a sweeping policy agenda. His inaugural speech promised a “golden age of America,” emphasized border security, and criticized past leadership. Biden departed the Capitol after issuing pardons, as Trump prepared to implement major changes.
Inauguration Day Quick Looks
- Trump’s Swearing-In: Held indoors in the Capitol Rotunda due to cold weather.
- Inaugural Speech: Promised to end America’s “decline” and usher in a “golden age.”
- Biden’s Departure: Former president leaves for California after issuing final pardons.
- Executive Orders: Immediate actions include renaming the Gulf of Mexico and border policies.
- Global Attendance: Leaders from Israel, Egypt, and Italy joined U.S. dignitaries and tech titans.
Inauguration Day Highlights: Trump’s Speech, Biden Departs Capitol
Deep Look
Trump’s Inauguration: Return to Power Amid Bold Promises
Introduction: A Historic Return
Donald Trump was sworn in Monday as the 47th U.S. president, completing an extraordinary political comeback after overcoming impeachments, criminal convictions, and assassination attempts. The ceremony, held inside the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid weather, marked the start of Trump’s second term and the beginning of his ambitious agenda to reshape American institutions.
Inaugural Address: “Golden Age of America”
Trump’s speech echoed themes from his first term, promising to end the country’s “decline” and initiate a “golden age.” Key highlights included:
- Border Security: Declaring a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border and reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy.
- Energy Policies: Declaring a “national energy emergency” and expanding oil and gas production.
- Economic Vision: Proposing measures to curb inflation and reduce government inefficiencies.
“The golden age of America begins right now,” Trump declared.
While emphasizing a fresh start, Trump also sharply criticized past leadership, accusing it of incompetence and corruption, though he avoided naming specific individuals.
Biden’s Farewell: Final Actions Before Departure
Joe Biden, now the former president, departed the Capitol shortly after Trump’s swearing-in. Before leaving, Biden issued final pardons for figures including his family members, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and Gen. Mark Milley, citing concerns about potential retribution under Trump’s administration.
Executive Orders and Immediate Actions
Trump wasted no time in outlining his Day 1 plans:
- Renaming the Gulf of Mexico: To “Gulf of America,” reflecting his “America First” philosophy.
- Ending the CBP One App: A Biden-era program facilitating migrant entry.
- Paris Climate Agreement Withdrawal: Reversing U.S. commitments to the global climate accord.
Trump also reignited discussions about the Panama Canal, suggesting the U.S. should regain control, and hinted at the possibility of military action to achieve this goal.
Dignitaries and VIP Attendees
The ceremony featured a mix of political leaders, tech moguls, and international figures. Attendees included:
- Global Leaders: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, and Argentine President Javier Milei.
- Tech Titans: Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos.
- Supreme Court Justices: All nine justices, led by Chief Justice John Roberts.
Opera tenor Christopher Macchio performed the national anthem, following in the footsteps of past performers like Lady Gaga and Beyoncé.
Divided Reactions
While Trump supporters celebrated his return to power, critics voiced concern. Reverend Al Sharpton led an MLK Day service coinciding with the inauguration, highlighting Trump’s controversial record on race and civil rights. “Everything Dr. King stood for is at risk with this president,” Sharpton said.
Elsewhere, lawsuits were filed against Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, over alleged violations of federal transparency laws.
A Tale of Two Presidencies
Trump’s inauguration on Martin Luther King Jr. Day marked the third time in history that a president has been sworn in on the federal holiday, following Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. The dual significance of the day underscored the stark divisions in American politics.
Conclusion: A Bold Start Amid Deep Divisions
As Trump begins his second term, his ambitious agenda promises sweeping changes, from immigration to energy policy. Yet, the nation remains deeply divided, with critics wary of his leadership and supporters optimistic about his vision. Trump’s return to power sets the stage for a transformative and contentious presidency.
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