WASHINGTON — Donald Trump, who has faced a series of legal challenges and controversies throughout his political career, was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday. This landmark event has set in motion a new wave of Republican governance, as the party asserts its control over the federal government aiming to reform numerous institutions across the nation.
Due to severe cold weather, the swearing-in ceremony was relocated indoors. Following the inauguration, Trump participated in a celebratory parade at Capital One Arena. Among his initial actions was signing executive orders, including pardons for supporters involved in the January 6 Capitol unrest in 2021.
In his remarks, Trump indicated that he plans to have discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon, expressing a belief that the prolonged war in Ukraine could be resolved. He suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also interested in finding a resolution, remarking that many had expected the conflict to wrap up quickly.
In a significant policy discussion, Trump stated that the U.S. should take a substantial stake in the social media platform TikTok, which he believes is worth nearly $1 trillion. He articulated that this investment could benefit American interests while emphasizing national security concerns surrounding the platform’s Chinese ownership during an order to keep TikTok operational as it seeks a buyer.
With immigration policies also on his agenda, Trump signed measures that included a national emergency declaration regarding the U.S.-Mexico border, suspending refugee resettlement efforts, and challenging the automatic citizenship granted to individuals born in the U.S. He expressed a desire to see legal immigration structured in a way that aligns with national interests.
In terms of financial policy, Trump announced he is considering imposing tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, aimed at stimulating the economy and addressing trade imbalances. He has suggested advanced tariffs may come as soon as February 1.
In a notable development, Trump thanked attorney Norm Pattis for successfully securing a commutation for Joseph Biggs, a member of the Proud Boys, whose sentence was shortened significantly.
During his first official acts, Trump unveiled a series of executive orders affecting numerous policies, including the freezing of several measures previously established by the Biden administration. He highlighted a regulatory freeze and requiring federal employees to return to work in person five days a week.
Among Trump’s more controversial actions was the issuance of pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals charged in relation to the January 6 Capitol riot. He referred to these individuals as “hostages,” while expressing a desire to see them returned to their families, capturing national attention.
As part of his return to the White House, Trump initiated the termination of Biden-era regulations, including the revocation of a previous executive order on discrimination protections in education. He also halted ongoing emergency orders related to COVID-19 measures affecting schools.
The inaugural festivities included a parade marked by significant participation from supporters, military personnel, and families of hostages from Israel. This demonstration underscored the deep social and political divisions prevalent across the country as various groups gathered to witness the inauguration.
In addition to case-specific initiatives, Trump’s administration is making extensive staffing changes throughout federal agencies, signaling a shift in government operations and priorities. Among these changes is the transition within military branch leadership and significant departures from the State Department where the new administration seeks to place its own personnel in key roles.
Finally, Trump’s inauguration has drawn mixed perceptions in the media, reflecting a divided political climate. While his followers celebrated the event, dissenting voices challenge his presidency, emphasizing the need for dialogue and unity amidst ongoing polarization.
