Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, following a norm-breaking election campaign.
Due to extremely cold weather, the ceremony was held indoors at the US Capitol, where Trump swore in and delivered an inaugural address declaring, “America’s decline is over.”
Trump immediately pledged to take action on immigration, including declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and halting the practice of “catch and release.” He also emphasised his plans to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy and send troops to the border.
Among the day’s first actions, Trump signed an executive order to fly the US flag at full staff on all Inauguration Days. Meanwhile, his new vice president, JD Vance, was sworn in, and Trump was welcomed by a marching band and military personnel.
Trump made a statement about the Gulf of Mexico, declaring plans to rename it the “Gulf of America,” and his intention to restore William McKinley’s name to Mount McKinley.
During the inauguration parade, tech mogul Elon Musk sparked a social media stir when he finished his speech thanking Trump’s supporters with a gesture that some commentators compared to a Nazi salute. The controversy quickly gained attention online.
Foreign dignitaries, including Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, also attended the ceremony, emphasising the importance of the US-Australia alliance. Wong expressed her honour in representing Australia, calling it a “privilege” to witness the peaceful transfer of power in such an important democracy.
Meanwhile, Trump supporters, including Cuban American Jos Fiallo, showed enthusiasm for his stance on immigration, stating, “If you want to come to this country, you have to do it right.”
The 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony https://t.co/kTB4w2VCdI
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2025
Trump also outlined his commitment to tackling inflation, restoring American borders, and improving domestic crisis management. Despite the late start, the atmosphere at the inaugural parade in the Capital One Arena was upbeat, with loud music and excited crowds.
While Trump’s policies on immigration and the economy dominated the day, his remarks also targeted international issues, particularly the Panama Canal, which he claimed was unfairly given to Panama and now controlled by China.
As he wrapped up his inaugural address, Trump stated he will fight and win for the American people.
“In recent years our nation has suffered greatly, but we are going to bring it back,” he said.
He promised the “four greatest years of American history.”
Source: ABC News.
