Donald J. Trump is poised to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025, marking his return to the White House for a second, non-consecutive term. The inauguration coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday, making it the first time in over a century that a presidential inauguration falls on this day.
According to AP News, Donald Trump returned to Washington on Saturday for pre-inaugural celebrations, including a stunning fireworks display over the National Mall. Accompanied by Melania and his family, Trump attended a private reception before the patriotic-themed show lit up the capital, marking the start of inaugural festivities.
The swearing-in ceremony will commence at noon Eastern Time inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. This indoor setting was chosen due to anticipated freezing temperatures and high winds. “I have ordered the Inauguration Address, in addition to prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda, as was used by Ronald Reagan in 1985, also because of very cold weather,” Trump posted on his social media site Truth Social, as reported by CNN.
Vice President-elect JD Vance will take the oath of office before President-elect Trump. Chief Justice John Roberts is expected to administer the presidential oath. Following the ceremony, President Trump will deliver his inaugural address, outlining the vision for his upcoming term.
The inauguration will feature performances by notable artists. Country singer Carrie Underwood is set to perform “America the Beautiful,” and the Village People will entertain attendees with their hits “YMCA” and “Macho Man,” songs that became anthems during Trump’s campaign.
Dignitaries expected to attend include outgoing President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and other prominent political figures, underscoring the nation’s commitment to a peaceful transfer of power.
In light of recent security concerns, including a deadly attack in New Orleans and previous threats during Trump’s campaign, the Secret Service, along with other agencies, has implemented extensive measures to ensure the safety of attendees. Despite some local police forces not supporting the security efforts, authorities are working diligently to address potential challenges.
While the main ceremony is indoors, public participation is encouraged through various events. A live broadcast will be held at the Capital One Arena, where President Trump is expected to join the crowd after taking the oath. The event will be broadcast live on major news channels and will be available for streaming on various platforms, including the White House website and YouTube channels.
According to the New York Times, the evening will feature three official inaugural balls: the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Ball, and the Starlight Ball. These events are a long-standing tradition of inaugural celebrations. Following his 2017 inauguration, Mr. Trump and his wife, Melania, attended all three balls, where they shared their first dance as the presidential couple to Frank Sinatra’s classic, “My Way.”
Trump’s inauguration is historically significant as he becomes the second president to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland. At 78, he also becomes the oldest individual to assume the U.S. presidency.
As the nation prepares for this pivotal event, the focus remains on unity and the peaceful transition of power, hallmarks of American democracy.
