On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking a historic return to the White House for a second, non-consecutive term. The inauguration ceremony took place indoors at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, a deviation from tradition prompted by extreme cold weather conditions in Washington, D.C.
Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to Trump, who, at 78, becomes the oldest individual to assume the U.S. presidency. Trump took the oath using two Bibles: his personal childhood Bible and the historic Lincoln Bible. First Lady Melania Trump stood by his side during the ceremony.
In his inaugural address, Trump declared, “The new golden age of America begins right now,” emphasizing a vision for the nation to “flourish and be respected” under his leadership as a “peacemaker and a unifier.” He outlined priorities including enhancing border security, imposing tariffs on rival nations, increasing domestic energy production, and eliminating diversity programs in the federal government.
The ceremony was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries, including former presidents, lawmakers, cabinet nominees, tech industry leaders, and foreign officials such as former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Notably, former President Joe Biden and Trump shared several cordial moments, exemplifying a peaceful transfer of power.
Following the inauguration, Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at reversing policies from the previous administration. These actions included withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Treaty, declaring a national emergency at the southern border, and issuing pardons for over 1,500 individuals convicted in relation to the January 6 Capitol riot.
Trump’s return to the presidency is unprecedented in modern U.S. history, making him the second president to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland. His administration’s policies are expected to significantly reshape both domestic and foreign affairs, with a focus on national security, economic protectionism, and a merit-based, colorblind society.
