Donald Trump Sworn in for Second Term as Supporters Fill Washington, DC
Trump takes office during an indoor inauguration as thousands gather to celebrate at the Capital One Arena.
Washington, DC – Donald Trump was officially sworn in for his second term as President of the United States during an indoor inauguration ceremony held at the Capitol. Shielded from the frigid winds of a polar vortex, Trump’s ceremony unfolded with a sizable crowd of supporters gathering at the Capital One Arena to mark the occasion.
In his inaugural speech, Trump declared that his legacy would be that of a "peacemaker and unifier," while simultaneously outlining some of his most controversial policy proposals. These included a strong stance on irregular immigration and a demand for the U.S. to reclaim the Panama Canal.
"My message today is clear: It is time for us to act with courage, vigour, and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization," Trump said, urging the country to rise to new heights of success. "We will lead our nation to victory and reclaim our place in the world."
While Trump’s address focused on his vision for the future, it stood in contrast to his critics’ view of him as a divisive figure who poses a threat to American democracy. Despite these tensions, Monday's inauguration saw a surprisingly low number of protesters, a stark contrast to the large demonstrations seen during his first inauguration in 2017. Many believe the cold weather and the indoor nature of the event kept protesters away, while others may have simply accepted Trump's return to the White House.
Despite the chill, Trump's supporters were out in full force, donning "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) gear and waiting for hours to enter the arena. Many watched the event on screens inside, while others gathered outside the venue.
A Call for Global Peace
David Marks, a supporter who traveled from Orlando, Florida, expressed his appreciation for Trump’s peace-focused approach. Marks carried a bike with a banner featuring both Israeli and Palestinian flags, symbolizing Trump's push for peace in the Middle East.
"Trump understands that peace benefits us all," Marks said, despite not being able to attend the arena itself.
Though many supporters were unable to enter the 20,000-seat arena due to space limitations, their enthusiasm was palpable. Some, like Johnny Estrada, a 28-year-old police officer from New Mexico, expressed excitement over Trump's second term and the policies he advocates, particularly the "America First" approach.
"I’m excited for the next four years," Estrada said, explaining that he was dissatisfied with the way the U.S. spends money abroad and believes more should be invested domestically.
Criticism and Opposition
In contrast, those opposed to Trump’s policies expressed concern over his approach to governance. At the Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, Reverend Al Sharpton’s National Action Network organized a rally to honor Martin Luther King Jr., with many decrying the fact that Trump's inauguration took place on a holiday meant to celebrate civil rights.
Valerie Adelin, a protester from New York, condemned Trump’s recent pledge to pardon individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. "Martin Luther King Jr. stood for justice, peace, and empowerment," Adelin said, criticizing Trump’s support for those who stormed the Capitol.
Duval Clemmons, a 70-year-old protester, echoed similar sentiments, arguing that Trump’s criminal record made his return to the White House particularly troubling. Trump was convicted in May of falsifying business records, becoming the first U.S. president to assume office with a criminal record.
New Policies and Promises
As the inauguration proceeded, Trump made clear his intentions to tackle immigration, declaring a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border and pledging to reinstate the controversial “remain in Mexico” policy. He also directed efforts to combat illegal immigration and criminal organizations.
Trump also promised to focus on economic recovery, including measures to combat inflation and support the fossil fuel industry, famously stating, “We will drill, baby, drill.”
Trump’s address was short on policy specifics but rich in calls to action, as he emphasized the notion of a "golden age" for America.
A Day of Transition
Meanwhile, outgoing President Joe Biden used his final day in office to issue pardons to several individuals, including his siblings and key figures involved in the investigation of Trump’s role in the January 6 riots.
In a moment of symbolism, Trump swiftly raised U.S. flags to full-staff after his swearing-in, over objections to the continued half-mast status in honor of the late President Jimmy Carter.
With Trump’s second term now underway, both his supporters and critics are bracing for the next four years, marked by deep political divides and transformative policy changes.