Sunday, January 19, 2025

Trump’s second inauguration: Guests, oath, indoor ceremony highlights


 Trump’s 2025 Inauguration: A Preview of the Ceremony and Events


Every four years, the United States inaugurates its president on January 20, whether newly elected or re-elected. The event follows long-standing traditions, with each incoming leader adding their personal touch.


As Donald Trump prepares to be sworn in as the 47th president, his inauguration will feature some unique elements—ranging from high-profile tech moguls in attendance to an unexpected venue change due to extreme cold weather.


The Oath of Office


The U.S. Constitution mandates that a new presidential term begins at noon on January 20 (or January 21 if the date falls on a Sunday). The ceremony typically takes place on the expansive West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, but this year, the event will move indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid temperatures.


As per tradition, Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the oath to Trump, marking the second time he has done so for the former president. Following the oath, Trump will deliver his inaugural address, where he is expected to outline his vision for the next four years. His 2017 speech was notable for its stark portrayal of America’s challenges, famously referencing “American carnage.”


Additionally, incoming Vice President JD Vance will take his oath of office.


Distinguished Guests


In a departure from previous inaugurations, Trump has invited several prominent tech executives to attend. According to reports, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew will be present alongside traditional guests such as Trump’s cabinet nominees.


President Joe Biden is expected to attend, despite Trump skipping Biden’s own inauguration in 2021. All living former presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama—will be in attendance with their spouses, except for Michelle Obama.


While foreign heads of state are not typically invited to U.S. inaugurations, Trump has extended invitations to select world leaders, particularly those aligned with his political ideology. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has confirmed her attendance, and invitations were also sent to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, though not all are expected to appear.


A Last-Minute Venue Change


Trump has long been fixated on crowd size at his events, but his decision to relocate the inauguration indoors may limit attendance figures. Initially, over 220,000 tickets were distributed to the public, but the Capitol Rotunda can only accommodate about 600 people.


To accommodate supporters, Trump has arranged for a live broadcast at Washington’s Capital One Arena, which seats up to 20,000, and has promised to make an appearance there later in the day.


“This will be a very beautiful experience for all,” Trump stated.


Executive Orders and Policy Moves


Immediately upon taking office, Trump is expected to sign a series of executive orders aimed at reversing many of President Biden’s policies. Key initiatives include a large-scale deportation program and an expansion of domestic oil drilling. He has also hinted at issuing pardons for individuals convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot.


Following the ceremony, Trump’s administration will hold a meeting with foreign ministers from Japan, India, and Australia—members of the “Quad” alliance, which has been positioned as a strategic counterbalance to China’s global influence.


Entertainment and Musical Performances


Trump’s 2017 inauguration was marked by difficulty in securing high-profile performers, as many artists declined to participate. This time, however, the entertainment lineup appears stronger.


Country star Carrie Underwood is scheduled to perform “America the Beautiful” during the swearing-in ceremony. Lee Greenwood, known for his patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA,” will also take the stage.


A pre-inaugural concert on Sunday will feature performances from the Village People—whose hit “Y.M.C.A.” has become a fixture at Trump rallies—as well as Kid Rock and Billy Ray Cyrus. Other artists, including Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, and Gavin DeGraw, will perform at the official inaugural balls.


Inaugural Balls and Celebrations


Trump is set to attend three official inaugural balls on Monday night, while several unofficial events will also take place across Washington, D.C.


Additionally, he will host a “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” on Sunday evening at Capital One Arena, continuing his tradition of large-scale campaign-style gatherings.


As Trump prepares to begin his second term, his inauguration will reflect both traditional elements and the distinctive style that has defined his political career.

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