Donald Trump has outlined his visions for the next four years after being sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday.
Vice President JD Vance also took his oath during the ceremony.
The event, originally planned for outdoors, was moved to the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid weather. Attendees included former presidents, influential tech magnates, and lawmakers who gathered to witness the transition of power from one administration to the next.
In his speech, Trump criticized the Biden administration and laid out his vision for the nation’s future under his leadership. He declared that “a tide of change is sweeping the country” and proclaimed, “America’s decline is over.”
Here are some of the key points from his address:
A “golden age”
Trump began his remarks by declaring that “the golden age of America begins right now,” pledging to prioritise the nation’s interests. However, he soon shifted to a more sombre tone, criticizing past political divisions.
Vision
The new president described the day as “liberation day” and said his electoral win was proof that the nation is “rapidly unifying behind our agenda.” Trump expressed his desire to be remembered as a “peacemaker and unifier,” and concluded with a message of resilience: “We will not be intimidated. We will not be broken, and we will not fail.”
Expected executive actions
Trump shared his intention to sign several executive orders later in the day. These include declaring a national emergency at the US southern border and an order to “immediately stop all government censorship and bring back free speech to America.”
Immigration and border security
Addressing immigration, Trump criticised the presence of “dangerous criminals” who, according to him, entered the country illegally due to inadequate border security. He argued that the previous administration failed to adequately safeguard Americans.
Disasters
Referring to recent catastrophes such as the deadly wildfires in Los Angeles and Hurricane Helene in the southeastern US, Trump claimed that the nation “can no longer deliver basic services in times of emergency.” Without evidence, he asserted that the Los Angeles wildfires burned “without even a token of defense.”
Energy and the economy
Trump reaffirmed his commitment to energy independence, stating, “drill, baby, drill,” as a means to combat inflation. He also promised to reverse clean energy policies and initiate a comprehensive overhaul of the trade system, including imposing taxes and tariffs on foreign nations, an issue he has frequently addressed.
Public health
The president criticized the country’s public health system and alleged that “an education system that teaches our children to be ashamed of themselves, in many cases, to hate our country” needs reform.
Attacks on Biden
Trump targeted former President Joe Biden, accusing his administration of being incapable of handling crises domestically while “stumbling into a continuing catalogue of catastrophic events abroad.”
While the inauguration activities were underway, moving trucks lined up outside the White House. Around 100 members of the executive residence staff worked diligently to move the Biden family out, clean the premises, and prepare for the arrival of the Trump family. By the time the new first family arrives later today, their belongings will already be arranged and unpacked.
Inside the Oval Office, a rug designed by former First Lady Nancy Reagan has been reinstated, according to a source. This rug had previously adorned Trump’s office during his first term. A portrait of Andrew Jackson has also been hung, reflecting the transition from Biden’s decor to Trump’s preferred style.
Melania Trump’s fashion at the event also drew attention. Her hat, created by New York-based milliner Eric Javits, was a striking yet understated addition to her military-inspired outfit. The wide-brimmed hat, which nearly obscured her eyes, became a defining feature of her ensemble.
(CNN)
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