Donald Trump Touts ‘Golden Age’ as He Is Inaugurated as 47th President of the United States
Donald Trump completed a historic political comeback, taking the oath of office in a ceremony emphasizing bold plans for America’s future
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, completing a historic return to the White House for a second, nonconsecutive term. The midday ceremony, originally planned for the Capitol steps, was moved to the Rotunda due to freezing temperatures in Washington, DC. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to President Trump, while Justice Brett Kavanaugh swore in Vice President JD Vance, marking a peaceful transfer of power attended by former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
‘Golden Age of America’
In a 29-minute inaugural address, President Trump declared, “The golden age of America begins right now,” and pledged to restore the country’s greatness through “common-sense policies” and a renewed focus on prosperity. “From this moment on, America’s decline is over,” he said, vowing to undo what he called “years of betrayal” and promising to deliver “faith, wealth, democracy, and freedom” back to the people. He outlined controversial plans to declare a national emergency at the border, reinstate expelled service members who objected to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, and reclaim the Panama Canal, stating, “We’re taking it back.” The president also criticized the nation’s public health system and promised to “end the chronic disease epidemic.”
Support for Israel and Middle East Stability
President Trump celebrated the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which began a day before the inauguration, and highlighted the release of three Israeli hostages. Taking partial credit for the effort, which was coordinated with the Biden administration, he stated, “We will stand firmly with Israel, our ally, to ensure peace and security in the region.” Families of American Israeli hostages were present at the ceremony, expressing hope for continued efforts to secure the release of their loved ones.
Historic and Diverse Religious Participation
The ceremony included prayers from religious leaders representing multiple faiths. Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman of Yeshiva University delivered a historic benediction, invoking blessings from the prophet Jeremiah. His participation marked the first time an Israeli American rabbi spoke at a US presidential inauguration. Prayers were also offered by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Rev. Franklin Graham, Pastor Lorenzo Sewell and Reverend Frank Mann. Imam Husham Al-Husainy was listed in the program but did not deliver his planned benediction.
Tight Security and Star-Studded Attendance
Security was a major focus, with thousands of troops and law enforcement personnel deployed across Washington, DC, amid concerns of potential unrest. The ceremony proceeded without incident, reflecting the administration’s efforts to maintain order. The event was attended by international dignitaries, former presidents, and prominent figures in technology and finance, including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Sundar Pichai. Performances by artists such as Carrie Underwood, Christopher Macchio, and Lee Greenwood added a celebratory tone to the historic day.
Immediate Actions and Controversial Plans
Donald Trump, the oldest person to be inaugurated at 78, signaled an aggressive start to his term. Reports suggest he may sign up to 100 executive orders in his first days, including measures to crack down on illegal immigration, impose tariffs on trading partners, and pardon individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. His agenda also includes withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and eliminating diversity and inclusion programs within federal agencies. Advocacy groups are already challenging many of these initiatives.
A Return to Power Unlike Any Other
Trump’s return to the presidency is one of the most dramatic political comebacks in US history. Four years after his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed attempt to overturn his election loss, President Trump stood in the same building to reclaim power. Feeling vindicated despite his impeachments and legal battles, he now seeks to cement his legacy with a “revolution of common sense.”
As the ceremony concluded, the newly sworn-in president reminded the nation of his vision for leadership: “We will measure our success not only by the battles we win but by the wars we end—and more importantly, the wars we never get into.”