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On Monday, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, a remarkable achievement considering his previous impeachments, criminal indictments, and multiple assassination attempts. The inauguration took place amidst frigid conditions, prompting a last-minute shift of the ceremony indoors. Following his swearing-in, Trump attended a celebratory parade at Capital One Arena, where he also signed several executive orders and issued pardons to his supporters involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Throughout the day’s events, the emerging partnership between Trump and tech giant Elon Musk came into focus. Musk was notably seated close to Trump during the ceremony and visibly celebrated as Trump spoke about plans to send American astronauts to Mars. This partnership highlights the unique relationship the billionaire has developed with the president, especially given Musk’s significant federal contracts.
South Korea’s interim leader, Choi Sang-mok, expressed optimism that Trump’s presidency could bolster bilateral relations. He instructed government officials to enhance high-level communication with the new U.S. administration and emphasize the importance of the long-standing military alliance between the two nations. Choi did, however, voice concerns regarding potential trade policies that could adversely impact South Korea’s export-driven economy, promising to mobilize resources in response to any changes.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticized Trump’s decision to reclassify Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, calling the move “arrogant.” In a statement, Díaz-Canel indicated that the designation exacerbated Cuba’s economic struggles and contributed to the increased emigration of its citizens to the U.S. Trump, on his first day in office, reversed a previous executive action taken by President Biden that had lifted this designation.
The inaugural event saw many prominent tech leaders among the distinguished guests, a notable shift from traditional seating arrangements typically reserved for family and honored guests of the president. This move reflects Trump’s alignment with the business sector, despite his claim of representing working-class interests.
Notably, Nayib Hassan, the attorney for Enrique Tarrio, the former chairman of the Proud Boys, hailed Trump’s pardon of his client as a “turning point” in U.S. history. Hassan declared that the prosecution of his client was politically motivated, and the pardon signifies a culmination of their struggle. On the other hand, Metropolitan police officer Daniel Hodges, who participated in the defense of the Capitol during the January 6 attack, commented on the pardons with a simple note of gratitude: “Thanks America.”
Trump signed a memorandum allowing White House aides awaiting security clearance to receive interim access, granting them critical information and privileges as their federal background checks are completed. Additionally, Trump hinted at invoking wartime powers to deport gang members affiliated with foreign terrorist organizations, a measure that has historical precedence in the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
In an executive order, Trump declared an immediate halt to offshore wind development and called for a review of federal leasing and permitting practices associated with both offshore and onshore wind projects. This aligns with Trump’s continued push for increased oil and gas drilling while expressing skepticism about renewable energy initiatives.
Trump also made headlines for expressing his viewpoint on the conflict in Gaza, articulating uncertainty about the ceasefire’s longevity, but indicated a willingness to assist in rebuilding efforts. He emphasized the potential for revitalizing the area, comparing it to a “massive demolition site.”
In a sweeping executive order, Trump temporarily suspended all U.S. foreign assistance programs for 90 days to reassess their alignment with his administration’s policy goals. This decision raised questions regarding the potential impact on programs already funded by Congress.
Trump’s immigration policies were front and center as he reinstated previous criteria for deportation, focusing on all undocumented individuals rather than just those with serious criminal records. He vocalized his intent to strip federal funding from so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions that hinder cooperation between local police and immigration authorities, while also seeking to enhance local police powers under federal immigration law.
As Trump commenced his presidency once again, the White House buzzed with Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. The atmosphere signaled a potential reconfiguration of power dynamics in Washington as leaders prepared to engage with the new administration.
Critics, including labor union head Everett Kelley, voiced opposition to Trump’s executive order freezing government hiring, claiming such measures lacked justification and aimed to cause disruption rather than efficiency. Similarly, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi condemned the pardoning of those involved in the January 6 insurrection as shameful, highlighting the sacrifices made by law enforcement on that day.
During interactions with reporters, Trump reflected on the political acumen of former President Bill Clinton and later made headlines for his ongoing discussion about a potential deal involving TikTok. He asserted that the U.S. should secure ownership stakes in the platform, valuing it at an estimated $1 trillion.
Trump’s administration faces considerable scrutiny regarding the implications of his numerous executive actions, including the eventual withdrawal from international agreements like the World Health Organization. His leadership style marks a sharp contrast with that of his predecessor, as Trump embraced the spotlight and interacted openly with the media.
In wrapping up the day’s events, Trump reiterated a commitment to his agenda, expecting to follow through on promises related to border security, immigration, and economic policies aimed at elevating U.S. interests.
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