(Historic Return to the White House Marks New Era in American Politics)
Donald J. Trump has been inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking a dramatic return to power after defeating Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in a contentious election. The ceremony, held indoors at the US Capitol due to bitterly cold weather, featured a mix of tradition and Trump’s characteristic showmanship, signaling the start of what he described as a “brand new day” for America.
Accompanied by outgoing President Joe Biden, Trump arrived at the Capitol for the swearing-in ceremony. Earlier in the day, the two leaders and their spouses met for tea at the White House in a rare display of bipartisanship. “Welcome home,” Biden reportedly said as he greeted Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House.
Due to the freezing temperatures, the inauguration was moved indoors to the Capitol’s Rotunda, similar to Ronald Reagan’s 1985 swearing-in. Trump, at 78, became the oldest president to take office, replacing Biden in that distinction. He also made history as only the second president, after Grover Cleveland, to return to power after losing re-election.
In his inaugural address, Trump pledged to act swiftly to address what he described as “crises facing our country,” promising immediate executive actions. Among his priorities are strict immigration measures, including deportations of undocumented migrants, and reversing “woke” policies in education. Trump also hinted at renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America,” sparking both intrigue and controversy.
Despite his promises of a “golden era,” critics have raised concerns over Trump’s vows of retribution against political opponents and his commitment to a nationalist agenda. His fiery rhetoric, which dominated his campaign, has heightened tensions domestically and internationally.
Outgoing President Biden sought to ensure a smooth transition, issuing several pardons in his final hours in office. Among those pardoned were former COVID-19 advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley, shielding them from potential legal actions under the new administration. Biden also restored the tradition of leaving a letter for his successor, though the contents remain private.
The inauguration drew mixed reactions from the public. While the National Mall was largely empty due to the weather, some supporters, like the Fairchild family from Michigan, traveled to Washington to witness the historic moment. “Ecstatic,” said Barb Fairchild, who expressed confidence in Trump’s leadership.
Internationally, Trump’s return to power is being closely watched. World leaders and observers brace for a renewed era of unpredictability, with the president already signaling sweeping trade tariffs and questioning US aid commitments to Ukraine. Right-wing politicians worldwide have celebrated his victory, with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni breaking protocol to attend the inauguration.
Trump’s ascent to the Oval Office comes after a tumultuous political journey marked by a criminal conviction and assassination attempts, events that have only solidified his dominance in Washington. As he takes the oath of office alongside Vice President JD Vance, Trump enters his second term with promises of bold reforms and a pledge to reshape America’s future.
As Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s spokesperson, declared, “As soon as President Trump places his hand on the Bible and swears the Oath to the United States Constitution, the Golden Age of America will begin.”
The world now watches as Trump embarks on what is expected to be another era of bold decisions and sweeping changes in US policy.
