WASHINGTON — Donald Trump, who has navigated through impeachments, criminal charges, and even assassination attempts, is set to be sworn in on Monday as the 47th President of the United States. This event marks a significant moment as Republicans assert their control in Washington, aiming to transform national institutions.
The swearing-in ceremony for Trump will commence indoors at noon ET due to frigid weather conditions. Preceding this, festivities will kick off with a church service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, which the incoming president will attend.
In the lead-up to the inauguration, both President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance made their way to the Capitol, where an atmosphere of camaraderie was evident as lawmakers mingled, taking selfies without specific seating arrangements.
Traditionally, formal transportation arrangements were observed as the outgoing President Joe Biden and Trump shared a limousine ride to the ceremonial venue, joined by Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar, who chairs the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. Their shared transport underscores a political tradition despite their long-standing rivalry.
Following them, First Lady Jill Biden and incoming First Lady Melania Trump departed the White House, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and JD Vance, heading for the Capitol ceremony.
At the Capitol, flags that had been lowered in mourning for former President Jimmy Carter were raised once again, as House Speaker Mike Johnson ordered them to be displayed in honor of Trump’s inauguration.
As attendees filled the Capitol, notable figures from various fields were spotted. Celebrities from sports and business sectors, including TikTok’s CEO, gathered in the visitor center to stream the inauguration on a giant screen. Influencers like Evander Holyfield and Conor McGregor were also seen mingling and enjoying the event atmosphere.
House Republican women arrived dressed in the party’s trademark red, while the men sported ties in similar shades. In a united front, they settled into their seats as the Nation prepared for this momentous event.
As part of their goodbyes, Biden and Harris made heartfelt posts on social media, expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to serve the American people. Both posts included a portrait featuring Biden, his family, and Harris with Emhoff.
Trump’s inauguration is notable not just for the ceremony itself but for the ambitious agenda he is expected to pursue upon officially taking office. Polls reflect divergent public opinions regarding his plans, as certain proposals, like eliminating taxes on tips, enjoy substantial support, whereas others, like granting pardons to participants of the January 6 Capitol incursion, face widespread opposition.
Chief Justice John Roberts, who has overseen multiple inaugurations, will again administer the oath to Trump. His experience includes swearing in both Obama and Biden in previous terms, with a memorable mishap during the first swearing-in of Obama that necessitated a rare redo.
Prominent guests already began arriving at the Capitol Rotunda for the ceremony. Among them was Gen. CQ Brown, current chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Former House and Senate leaders, including Mitch McConnell, were also present.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the oath of office to vice president-elect JD Vance, highlighting a shared history as Vance was one of Kavanaugh’s students at Yale Law School.
In attendance were three former Republican speakers of the House: Newt Gingrich, John Boehner, and Kevin McCarthy, although the last Democratic speaker, Nancy Pelosi, chose not to attend.
International figures, such as French billionaire Bernard Arnault, graced the church service with their presence, indicating that high-profile attendees seek close ties with the incoming administration.
In a traditional passing of the torch, Biden confirmed he left a note for Trump in the Oval Office, a customary gesture of goodwill between outgoing and incoming administrations, although the contents remain private.
Former Vice President Mike Pence also acknowledged the occasion, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the peaceful transition of power.
Notable global responses included Russian President Putin’s greetings to Trump, indicating a desire for renewed U.S.-Russia relations under his upcoming administration.
As the inauguration unfolds, flags at government buildings, like those in New York, are set to remain at full height in recognition of the occasion, a tribute that balances respect for the late President Carter.
The Trumps arrived at the White House under warm welcomes from the Bidens. They greeted one another with customary exchanges before proceeding to share tea, following the tradition that underscores the peaceful transfer of power.
The inaugural lunch menu features specialties such as Chesapeake Crab Cake and Greater Omaha Angus Ribeye Steak, with dessert options that will delight over 200 guests in attendance.
A palpable sense of anticipation filled the air along the U.S.-Mexico border, where many asylum seekers expressed hope that Trump’s policies would not disrupt their opportunities for legal entry into the U.S.
The inauguration ceremonies will kick off with a musical performance by university choirs, echoing sentiments of unity as the nation prepares to welcome a new leader.
Trump plans to sign several executive orders addressing energy production and inflation on his first day in office, a move that signifies his immediate approach to revamping national policy.
As key supporters and allies gather for the ceremonies, former White House aides and GOP governors emphasize their ongoing loyalty and support for Trump’s administration, setting the stage for a dynamic political landscape ahead.
With celebrity participation markedly shifting to a more favorable portrayal of Trump compared to past inaugurations, the events surrounding this transition signal a notable change in public perception and political alliances.
The atmosphere is charged as Trump prepares to sign executive orders that will reshape immigration policies and address various issues that dominated his campaign platform, signaling a decisive shift in governance.
