WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, marking the start of his second term with a declaration of “liberation day” for America and a vow to usher in a “revolution of common sense.”
In a dramatic address delivered inside the Capitol Rotunda, Trump, 78, rebuked the nation’s elite, declaring that “America’s decline is over” and promising to restore the spirit that “launched mankind into the heavens.”
The event was scaled down due to dangerously cold weather.
Trump’s soaring national ambitions were laid out as he pledged a complete course correction from President Joe Biden’s term.
He vowed to reclaim sovereignty, safety, and justice, promising to end the weaponisation of government institutions.
“We are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success,” Trump proclaimed to an audience of 600 political and business leaders.
He warned of the challenges ahead, stating, “Our government confronts a crisis of trust,” blaming a “radical and corrupt establishment” for betraying the nation.
Trump described his victory as a mandate to reverse these betrayals and restore faith, democracy, and freedom to the American people.
Trump’s inauguration ceremony was conducted by Chief Justice John Roberts. After shaking hands with Biden, 82, and Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump launched a speech fiercely critical of his predecessor’s legacy.
Biden and Harris sat stone-faced as Trump outlined plans to dismantle many of their policies.
Trump reflected on personal trials, referencing four criminal cases and assassination attempts.
He described surviving a bullet wound in Pennsylvania, attributing his survival to divine intervention.
“I was saved by God to make America great again,” Trump declared, promising national resurgence and global respect.
Singer Carrie Underwood performed “America the Beautiful” a cappella due to a technical glitch. Among the attendees were Jill Biden, Doug Emhoff, and former Presidents Obama, Clinton, and Bush. Tech leaders, including Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai, were also present, with Musk now leading the Department of Government Efficiency.
Trump confirmed plans to sign executive orders addressing illegal immigration, restoring the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and boosting energy production.
He vowed to designate cartels as foreign terrorist organisations and use the Alien Enemies Act to eradicate foreign criminal networks.
“We will defend American borders and protect our people,” Trump said.
In a nod to expansionist ambitions, Trump referenced acquiring Greenland and reclaiming the Panama Canal.
He criticised Biden’s handling of hurricanes and wildfires, asserting that the government failed to manage crises at home while faltering abroad.
Trump’s inaugural celebration included a victory rally with the Village People performing “Y.M.C.A.” and an indoor parade at Capitol One Arena.
As his presidency begins, Trump pledged to “simply put America first” every day, setting the stage for what he called “the four greatest years in American history.”
