Donald Trump was sworn in for a historic second term as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, marking an extraordinary political comeback.
The ceremony, held indoors at the US Capitol Rotunda due to severe winter weather, saw Trump pledge swift executive actions on immigration and cultural issues.
With one hand on a Bible gifted to him by his mother, Trump took the oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, in a solemn moment witnessed by family, cabinet members, and prominent figures.
Among the attendees were tech giants Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai, reflecting Trump’s strengthened ties with influential figures since his first presidency.
The outgoing president, Joe Biden, upheld tradition by accompanying Trump to the Capitol via motorcade. Earlier, the Bidens hosted the Trumps for a ceremonial tea at the White House. Greeting Trump at the presidential residence, Biden remarked, “Welcome home.”
Unlike Trump’s 2017 inauguration, where he was seen as a political outsider, this event symbolised his return to the apex of American politics, bolstered by high-profile supporters like Musk, who reportedly contributed $250 million to his campaign.
The ceremony was also attended by former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, along with their respective spouses, excluding Michelle Obama, who notably chose to skip the event.
Tribune Online reports that Trump emerged as the 47th president of the United States after defeating outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5, 2024, presidential election.
