The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States was a spectacle marked by bold promises, sharp critiques of the previous administration, and the formal commencement of his ambitious agenda.
The ceremony took place amidst a mix of excitement and tension, as the president outlined his vision for a transformed America while signaling a break from the policies of the outgoing administration.
Donald Trump officially took the oath of office as the 47th President of the United States, swearing on two Bibles steeped in history and personal significance.
One of the Bibles was a gift from his mother, adding a deeply personal touch to the ceremony. The other was the Lincoln Bible, famously used by Abraham Lincoln during his 1861 inauguration and later by several other US presidents.
Trump’s Speech: A Strong Critique and Vision for the Future
In his inaugural address, President Trump wasted no time in condemning what he termed “a horrible betrayal” by the previous administration. Addressing former President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other Democrats who sat stoically behind him, Trump claimed a mandate to reverse what he called the “radical and corrupt establishment.” He pledged that, from this moment forward, America would no longer be subjected to the policies that, in his view, had “extracted power and wealth” from the country.
The president set a combative tone in his address, declaring that change would begin immediately, highlighting a series of executive actions he planned to take on key issues, such as immigration, energy, and government-mandated diversity programs. He also reiterated a controversial proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and renewed his stance on reclaiming the Panama Canal from what he falsely claimed was Chinese control.
Ambitious Executive Plans And Promises
Trump’s inaugural speech was marked by a range of policy promises, which he vowed to enact with urgency. His administration, he declared, would take “immediate” action on several fronts:
- Immigration Reform: Trump promised a crackdown on illegal immigration, including halting all illegal entry at the US-Mexico border and reinstating the controversial “Remain in Mexico” policy. He also vowed to send additional troops and resources to secure the border and announced that he would designate foreign cartels as terrorist organisations.
- Energy Independence: In line with his campaign promises, Trump said he would declare a national energy emergency and pursue an aggressive drilling agenda. He emphasised that America would once again be a “manufacturing nation,” tapping into the country’s vast oil and natural gas reserves. His famous phrase “Drill, baby, drill” echoed through the Rotunda as he promised to make the US energy-independent once again.
- Social and Cultural Reforms: Trump also addressed issues of race and gender, pledging to end government-mandated diversity programs and establish a “colour-blind and merit-based” society. His administration would affirm that there are only two genders: male and female.
- Reclaiming Sovereignty: The president outlined his vision for the United States to become a “growing nation” again. He pledged to increase American wealth and expand the country’s influence, including the controversial idea of reclaiming the Panama Canal and possibly acquiring more territory.
- Trade and Governance: Trump emphasised a major overhaul of trade practices, announcing the creation of the “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs and revenues from foreign sources. Additionally, he introduced the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aiming to streamline bureaucratic processes.
- Middle East Diplomacy: Trump declared his intention to be a “peacemaker and unifier” in the Middle East. Reflecting on the release of three Israeli hostages held by Hamas, he promised to work toward lasting peace in the region. His remarks on the situation received a standing ovation from both Biden and Harris. He also reiterated his commitment to restoring the US as the most powerful and respected nation in the world, inspiring admiration globally.
- Geographical and Historical Changes: Trump further stated that his administration would work to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and would restore the name of Mount McKinley to its former title, “William McKinley”—a move aimed at revisiting what he described as “where it should be and belongs.”
Post-Speech Performances And Ceremony Highlights
After Trump’s rousing speech, the ceremony continued with moments of patriotic celebration and reflection. Carrie Underwood, the acclaimed country music star, took to the stage for a musical performance of “America the Beautiful.” A brief moment of silence followed an unexpected technical glitch with her backing track, but the singer quickly adapted, delivering a beautiful a cappella rendition of the song. Underwood was joined by the audience, creating a unifying and uplifting atmosphere.
Christopher Macchio Closes The Ceremony
As the ceremony neared its conclusion, tenor Christopher Macchio took center stage to sing the National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” His powerful voice resonated through the Capitol Rotunda, providing a fitting and patriotic close to the historic event. The ceremony ended with prayers offered for President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were both officially sworn into office, marking the beginning of their term.
Trump’s Legacy and Challenges Ahead
Trump’s inauguration was a clear message to both his supporters and critics that his presidency would be defined by change, action, and a rejection of the establishment. His speech and the promises he made are likely to have far-reaching effects on the political landscape, as he sets the stage for a second term marked by deep division and significant reforms.
However, the implementation of his ambitious plans will face significant challenges. His policies on immigration, energy, and social issues will require Congressional support, and his proposed changes to long-standing practices may spark fierce opposition both domestically and internationally.
In the days ahead, Trump will be expected to prove that the “golden age” he envisions for America is more than just rhetoric. As his first term begins with a clear focus on restoring national sovereignty, prosperity, and strength, only time will tell if he can fulfill the grand promises made during his inauguration.
The ceremony itself, with its mix of bold declarations, patriotic performances, and moments of reflection, set the tone for what promises to be a tumultuous and transformative period in American politics. The stage is now set for President Trump to lead the nation forward, with a vision that blends national pride, economic ambition, and a controversial approach to governance.
