On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking a historic return to the White House after a four-year hiatus. The ceremony, held inside the Capitol Rotunda due to inclement weather, was attended by a host of dignitaries, including tech magnates Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, as well as former presidents and political figures.
In his inaugural address, President Trump declared, “America’s decline is over,” signaling a new era of assertive policies aimed at revitalizing the nation’s standing. He outlined an ambitious agenda focusing on immigration reform, energy independence, and economic revitalization. Key initiatives include declaring a national emergency at the southern border, reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and expanding domestic oil exploration.
The inauguration was not without controversy. Outgoing President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons to several officials involved in the January 6 investigations, as well as to family members, a move that drew criticism from various quarters. International reactions were mixed; European leaders expressed skepticism, while Russian President Vladimir Putin extended congratulations, expressing hope for renewed dialogue between the two nations.
President Trump’s return to office is unprecedented, making him the first president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms. At 78, he also becomes the oldest individual to assume the U.S. presidency. His administration faces the formidable task of uniting a deeply polarized nation while implementing a transformative policy agenda.