On January 20th, Donald Trump will officially step back into the role of President of the United States, marking the beginning of his unprecedented second term—a political Phoenix rising from the ashes of controversy. This day, known as Inauguration Day, has historically been a grand affair, filled to the brim with ceremony and traditional fanfare. It’s the time-honored moment when one commander-in-chief vacates the White House, making way for another to take the helm.
Yet, true to Trump’s unconventional style, he’s pledged to roll out a series of sweeping executive orders on his very first day—an agenda that will include significant moves on border security and the enhancement of oil and gas production. Can you say, “here we go again”?
As it stands, Inauguration Day is brimming with excitement and uncertainty. Mr. Trump is set to take the presidential oath at noon local time in the United States, which translates to a more civilized 5 PM in Ireland. The ceremony is expected to be officiated by none other than Chief Justice John Roberts, marking the second time he administers this oath to Trump. A small detail—trivial to some, monumental to others.
Following the oath, Mr. Trump intends to deliver an inaugural address that he has promised will be more uplifting and unifying than his 2017 speech, which painted America as a landscape riddled with devastation, famously dubbing it an “American carnage.” In a nation so often torn apart by politics, will he indeed manage to rally the citizens together or merely fluff the pillow of division?
Not to be left out, Vice President JD Vance will also take his ceremonial oath. Interestingly, outgoing President Joe Biden has signaled his intention to attend the ceremony—a gracious act that Mr. Trump notably did not extend to him four years ago. Perhaps it’s an olive branch of sorts, or maybe just a nod to the gravity of the occasion.
Traditionally, inaugurations occur outside on a massive platform on the sweeping West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, offering breathtaking views of the National Mall. But this year, with the chill of winter swirling through the nation—a veritable Arctic blast, as Trump himself remarked—plans have shifted. He announced through his Truth Social channel that his inaugural address, alongside prayers and additional speeches, will now unfold indoors within the elegant confines of the Capitol Rotunda. Talk about a change of scenery!
This new arrangement means that Mr. Trump will not face the throngs of supporters at the Capitol steps, where cheers typically resonate like music for a newly minted president. The shift comes as a disappointment since Washington had likewise geared up for a hefty influx of visitors, many of whom will now find themselves glued to screens at home. The last time an indoor oath-taking occurred was during Ronald Reagan’s inauguration in 1985, where severe weather necessitated the move. Is history repeating itself, or are we merely caught in a cycle of chilly inaugural traditions?
So, who can we expect in the crowd? In a move that breaks convention, Trump has extended invitations to several international dignitaries. Historically, foreign leaders prefer to send diplomats, citing security concerns—talk about playing it safe, right? Argentina’s President Javier Milei, a fierce Trump ally, is confirmed to make an appearance. Additionally, Hungary’s Viktor Orban is mulling over joining the festivities, but Chinese President Xi Jinping is opting to sit this one out, despite being invited. It seems the guest list is as eclectic as ever!
Add to the mix a slew of tech titans who have been invited to soak up the inaugural spectacle. Billionaires like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg will be rubbing elbows with more traditional guests, including soon-to-be cabinet members. Given Trump’s history with social media and the magnates behind it, one could argue this is a strategic power move rather than an impulsive guest list.
Speaking of celebrity, Trump’s first inauguration faced a drought of A-list talent, with many musicians reluctant to align themselves publicly with the controversial figure. This time, the musical lineup seems more fortunate, including country star Carrie Underwood crooning a rendition of “America the Beautiful” and Lee Greenwood performing his patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA”—a staple at Trump rallies. Perhaps the musical gods have finally smiled upon him?
After the swearing-in ceremony, Trump plans to swing into high gear, with a stack of executive orders poised for his signature—think of them as legislative fast-food. These actions aim to unwind numerous Biden policies, including providing immigration officials with broader authority to apprehend uncharged migrants, escalating military presence at the Mexico border, and resurrecting the border wall project. Oh, and let’s not forget the fervent promises in his slogans—“drill, baby, drill” could be making a comeback!
The night culminates in a series of inaugural galas spread across Washington, where the newly minted President may or may not choose to make an appearance. Funded by Trump’s inauguration committee, led by real estate moguls and former politicians, these events also see hefty financial contributions from corporate giants like Amazon and Meta Platforms, each pledging $1 million. A party plan in the land of the free is as American as apple pie, isn’t it?
As we approach Inauguration Day, one cannot help but ponder how this chapter will differ from the last, and the gravity with which Trump intends to wield his presidential pen. With a mix of grit and a little bit of soul, the nation will watch—both hopeful and apprehensive. So, raise your glasses, folks; it’s about to get interesting.
Report by Axadle Desktop
