Donald Trump officially took the oath of office as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, 2025. The historic inauguration took place under the grand dome of the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, as unusually frigid weather forced the ceremony indoors. This marked Trump’s return to the presidency, four years after leaving the White House in defeat.
In a fiery inaugural address, Trump, 78, pledged to usher in what he called a “revolution of common sense,” framing his re-election as a mandate to restore America’s strength and prosperity.
Trump Criticizes Biden Administration
Trump wasted no time targeting his predecessor, outgoing President Joe Biden, in his speech. He accused the previous administration of corruption and mismanagement, asserting that his second term would reverse what he called America’s “decline.”
“Our sovereignty will be reclaimed. Our safety will be restored. The scales of justice will be rebalanced,” Trump declared, criticizing what he termed the “weaponization” of the government.
Key Initiatives Outlined
Trump used his speech to outline his top priorities, including aggressive immigration reform, a return to pro-business policies, and the expansion of U.S. borders.
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Immigration Reform:
Trump declared a state of emergency at the southern border, promising to halt illegal entry and deport millions of individuals residing in the U.S. without legal authorization. He announced plans to reimplement the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which forces asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while awaiting immigration proceedings. -
Energy Policy:
The president pledged to reinvigorate American energy independence through pro-business initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on foreign oil and cutting energy costs for Americans. -
Expansion of U.S. Borders:
Trump called for reclaiming the Panama Canal and hinted at efforts to annex Greenland and encourage Canada to join the United States as its 51st state. -
Criminal Justice Reform:
Citing what he called the “vicious weaponization of the Justice Department,” Trump vowed to end politically motivated prosecutions and focus on punishing criminal activity.
Biden's Preemptive Pardons
Hours before Trump’s inauguration, Joe Biden issued a series of preemptive pardons to protect several figures from potential legal action during Trump’s term. Among those pardoned were Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and members of the January 6 House Select Committee. Biden described the pardons as a safeguard against retaliation while emphasizing that they were not admissions of guilt.
Trump’s Vision for America
Trump struck a more optimistic tone than his 2017 inaugural address, famously dubbed the “American carnage” speech. This time, he portrayed America as poised for a renaissance, ready to seize opportunities for growth and exploration.
“The United States will once again consider itself a growing nation, expanding our territory, raising our expectations, and carrying our flag to new frontiers,” Trump said. He even called for planting the U.S. flag on Mars, framing it as part of America’s “manifest destiny.”
Divisive Policies and Promises
Trump reiterated his stance against diversity and inclusion programs, calling for a “color-blind and merit-based” society. He also vowed to dismantle protections for transgender and nonbinary Americans, stating that “there are only two genders: male and female.”
While controversial, Trump’s policies have energized his base, with supporters viewing him as a champion of traditional values and national pride.
International Reactions and Domestic Concerns
International leaders and domestic critics alike have reacted cautiously to Trump’s promises. Human rights advocates fear the impact of his immigration policies on vulnerable populations, while others worry that his rhetoric could further divide the nation.
A Pledge for Unity
Despite the contentious nature of his address, Trump concluded with a call for unity, promising to bring peace and prosperity to the United States and beyond.
“My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier,” he said. “We will stop all wars and bring a new spirit of unity to a world that has been angry, violent, and unpredictable.”
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