Capitol: Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, marking a remarkable return to power after facing multiple felony convictions, two impeachments, and surviving two assassination attempts.
The inauguration ceremony, moved indoors for the first time in 40 years due to freezing temperatures, was attended by tech billionaires, cabinet nominees, and former presidents.
Using former President Abraham Lincoln’s Bible, Trump took the oath of office inside the packed Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. The same building was stormed by his supporters four years ago in an attempt to overturn his defeat by President Joe Biden. At 78, Trump has become the first U.S. president since the 19th century to win a second term after losing re-election.
Trump’s return to the White House signals the start of another tumultuous term, with pledges to expand executive power, deport millions of immigrants, target political opponents, and redefine America’s role on the global stage.
Earlier in the day, Trump and his wife, Melania, arrived at the White House, where they were greeted by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. During a brief handshake, Biden said, “Welcome home.”
Trump’s win was buoyed by widespread voter frustration over inflation. He defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the popular vote by over 2 million votes, though he did not secure a majority with 50% or more.
Similarly, Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, was sworn in by Justice Brett Kavanaugh earlier in the ceremony, officially becoming the Vice President of the United States.
This marks the first time since the 1890s that a U.S. president, after being defeated in an election, has returned victorious to take the oath for a second term.
