On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking the commencement of his second, non-consecutive term. The ceremony, originally planned for the Capitol’s West Front, was relocated indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to sub-zero temperatures and high winds. This inauguration was historically significant, as Trump became the second U.S. president, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. JD Vance was sworn in as Vice President during the same ceremony.
The event featured several notable moments, including President Trump’s entrance accompanied by a performance from the Marine Band. In his inaugural address, Trump emphasized themes of national unity and economic revitalization, while also reiterating his commitment to policies from his previous term. He pledged to prioritize American interests in foreign policy and to continue efforts to deregulate various industries to stimulate economic growth.
First Lady Melania Trump’s attire garnered significant attention during the inauguration. She wore a long, navy coat paired with a matching wide-brimmed hat, designed by Adam Lippes and Eric Javits. The ensemble drew comparisons to the iconic look of the fictional character Carmen Sandiego, sparking discussions and mixed reactions on social media. Some interpreted her fashion choice as a statement reflecting her feelings about returning to the White House.
The inauguration was not without controversy. In his speech, President Trump signaled intentions to pardon individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and criticized preemptive pardons issued by outgoing President Joe Biden. These remarks, along with Trump’s reiteration of unsubstantiated claims about the 2020 election, raised concerns among legal experts and observers about the implications for the rule of law and the health of American democracy.
