January 21, 2025
In a historic turn of events, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, marking his return to the Oval Office after a four-year hiatus. This makes him only the second president in U.S. history, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms.
Inauguration Highlights
The inauguration ceremony took place indoors due to extreme cold weather conditions. After taking the oath of office, President Trump wasted no time in implementing his agenda. He signed a series of executive orders aimed at reversing several policies from the previous administration. Notably, he issued pardons for over 1,500 individuals convicted in relation to the January 6 Capitol riot, a move that has sparked widespread debate.
Key Executive Actions
Among the executive orders signed on his first day, President Trump:
- Rescinded multiple Biden-era executive orders, signaling a shift in federal policy direction.
- Implemented a federal hiring freeze, aiming to reduce the size of the government workforce.
- Promoted full-time, in-person work for federal employees, moving away from remote work policies.
- Withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, emphasizing his administration’s focus on energy independence.
- Signed a memorandum to expedite security clearances for his aides, ensuring swift implementation of his agenda.
- Suggested the potential use of wartime powers to deport gang members, highlighting a tough stance on crime and immigration.
Domestic Policy Shifts
President Trump’s return heralds significant changes in domestic policies. His administration has expressed intentions to:
- Suspend U.S. foreign assistance programs for 90 days, pending a comprehensive review to align with his policy objectives.
- Encourage local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, aiming for stricter immigration enforcement.
- Restore 2017 deportation criteria, broadening the scope of individuals prioritized for removal from the country.
International Reactions
Global leaders have responded to President Trump’s inauguration with a mix of congratulations and cautious optimism. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te extended his congratulations and expressed a desire to work together to promote global peace and prosperity.
AP News Meanwhile, allies and adversaries alike are keenly observing how the new administration’s policies will impact international relations.
Public Response and Protests
The inauguration was met with both support and opposition. Thousands of protesters gathered in Washington, D.C., voicing concerns over the new administration’s policies. Despite the demonstrations, President Trump emphasized unity in his inaugural address, stating, “It’s time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us.”
Looking Ahead
As President Trump embarks on his second term, the nation stands at a crossroads. His administration’s early actions indicate a robust agenda aimed at reshaping both domestic and foreign policies. Supporters anticipate a return to what they consider stronger leadership and economic growth, while critics express concern over potential overreach and the rollback of progressive policies. The coming months will be pivotal in determining the direction of the United States under President Trump’s leadership.
This article provides an overview of the significant events surrounding President Donald Trump’s inauguration and the initial actions of his administration as of January 21, 2025.