Donald Trump Sworn In as 47th President, Declares End of ‘America’s Decline’
WASHINGTON – Donald Trump was inaugurated Monday as the 47th president of the United States, marking a historic return to the White House after overcoming four criminal indictments and surviving two assassination attempts. His political comeback is considered one of the most remarkable in U.S. history.
In an intimate ceremony held inside the Capitol rotunda due to below-freezing temperatures, Trump, 78, took the oath of office using two Bibles: one given to him by his mother in 1955 and another used by President Abraham Lincoln in 1861. JD Vance was sworn in as vice president moments earlier.
“The golden age of America begins right now,” Trump proclaimed in his inaugural address. “From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world.”
Trump’s 30-minute speech painted a transformative vision for America, pledging to reverse what he described as the “horrible betrayal” of the Biden administration. He declared the day as “liberation day,” promising sweeping changes to restore security and prosperity.
A Return to Power
Trump’s inauguration was met with chants of “USA! USA!” from supporters, signaling the start of a presidency aimed at enacting a populist, “America First” agenda. In his speech, Trump criticized his predecessor Joe Biden for failing to manage crises at home and for providing “sanctuary and protection for dangerous criminals”.
He promised immediate actions, including:
- Declaring a national emergency at the southern border.
- Renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.
- Designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
- Implementing new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China.
A Historic Comeback
Trump’s return marks him as only the second U.S. president, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. He is also the oldest president inaugurated and the first convicted felon to hold the office. Trump survived an intense campaign season, broadening his coalition among Hispanic, Black, and younger voters, which secured his victory over Democrat Kamala Harris.
“Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponized to persecute political opponents,” Trump vowed, alluding to investigations and indictments he faced. His administration is expected to pursue a disruptive agenda, led by loyal MAGA supporters.
Promises for the Future
Trump outlined ambitious goals, such as reclaiming the Panama Canal, pursuing space exploration on Mars, and implementing “a revolution of common sense” in government. His first day in office is set to include over 100 executive actions targeting immigration, energy, and federal regulations.
With a Cabinet of trusted allies, Trump’s second term aims to cement his legacy as a transformative and polarizing figure. As he concluded his speech, Trump promised, “From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation. We will stand bravely, live proudly, dream boldly, and nothing will stand in our way because we are Americans.”
