Trump, Biden Attend Historic Inauguration at Capitol Rotunda/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Donald Trump and Joe Biden attended the inauguration ceremony at the U.S. Capitol as Trump was sworn in as the 47th president. The event, moved indoors due to cold weather, marked a transition of power steeped in tradition and political significance. Vice President-elect JD Vance and Trump pledged to reshape America under unified Republican leadership.
Trump Inauguration Scene Quick Looks
- Trump sworn in at Capitol Rotunda after private meeting with Biden.
- Biden left a letter for Trump in the Oval Office, following tradition.
- VP-elect JD Vance’s oath administered by Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
- Guests include global leaders, sports celebrities, and business moguls.
- Trump’s agenda faces divided public opinion, with pardons drawing criticism.
Trump, Biden Attend Historic Inauguration at Capitol Rotunda
Deep Look
Trump Sworn In at Capitol, Marking Return to Power
Introduction: A Historic Transition
Donald Trump took the oath of office Monday as the 47th president of the United States in a ceremony held in the Capitol Rotunda, returning to power amid significant Republican backing. Accompanied by President Joe Biden, Trump participated in the time-honored transition rituals, including a private meeting at the White House and a shared limo ride to the Capitol.
The event symbolized both continuity in American democratic traditions and a profound shift as Republicans prepared to implement Trump’s bold second-term agenda.
Tradition and Rivalry: Biden and Trump Meet
In a remarkable moment, Biden and Trump, long-standing political rivals, shared a limo to the Capitol. This gesture restored the tradition of unity and cooperation on Inauguration Day, a practice Trump had eschewed in 2021 when he declined to invite Biden to the White House.
Biden also continued another presidential custom by leaving a handwritten letter for Trump in the Oval Office desk. While he declined to reveal its contents, the gesture underscored the gravity of the office and the peaceful transfer of power.
A Ceremony of Symbolism
The swearing-in ceremony, moved indoors due to frigid weather, drew high-profile attendees, including current and former Republican leaders, global dignitaries, and business elites. Among them were former Speakers Newt Gingrich, John Boehner, and Kevin McCarthy, as well as TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew and French billionaire Bernard Arnault.
Vice President-elect JD Vance, a rising star in the GOP, took his oath from Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, underscoring Vance’s connections within conservative legal circles.
Public and Political Reactions
Trump’s second-term agenda remains a point of contention. An AP-NORC poll revealed that some of Trump’s proposals, like eliminating taxes on tipped income, have broad support. However, other policies, such as pardoning January 6 participants, face significant opposition, with 6 in 10 Americans opposing the move.
Former Vice President Mike Pence attended the ceremony, calling it a “celebration of democracy.” Pence’s presence marked a thaw in their strained relationship, which had fractured following Pence’s refusal to overturn the 2020 election results.
Trump’s Agenda and Challenges
Trump’s second term begins with a Republican-controlled Congress, yet challenges persist. The GOP holds only a narrow majority in the House, complicating efforts to pass sweeping legislation on taxes, immigration, and energy production.
While his Cabinet appointments reflect loyalty to his vision, critics like Sen. Angus King (I-ME) have raised concerns about the qualifications of his nominees, including controversial figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Unity Amid Division: A Nation Watches
The day’s events highlighted the duality of America’s political landscape: a commitment to democratic traditions alongside stark partisan divides. As Trump and Vance begin their terms, the nation awaits the impact of their policies and leadership.
Despite the polarization, the ceremony emphasized a shared commitment to the peaceful transfer of power—a cornerstone of American democracy.
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