Donald Trump Sworn In for Second Term, Promises Crackdown on Immigration and “Restoration of America”

Donald Trump Sworn In for Second Term, Promises Crackdown on Immigration and “Restoration of America”

Washington: Donald Trump, 78, was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, pledging to “rescue America” from what he described as years of betrayal and decline. Taking the oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, Trump outlined a hardline agenda, focusing on immigration, cultural issues, and free speech in his inaugural address.

“First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border,” Trump announced. “All illegal entry will be immediately halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came.”

Trump also vowed to issue an executive order to “stop all government censorship” and declared it would now be “the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders – male and female.”

The speech echoed his 2017 inaugural themes of reversing what he has called “American carnage,” painting himself as a national savior chosen by God.

A Triumphant Comeback

Trump’s return to the presidency marks a remarkable comeback for a leader who faced two impeachment trials, a felony conviction, and multiple legal challenges. His vice president, Ohio Senator JD Vance, was sworn in moments before Trump.

The ceremony, held inside the Capitol due to extreme cold, symbolized a stark contrast to the January 6, 2021, attack on the building by Trump supporters. Outgoing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris attended, along with former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Hillary Clinton, who lost to Trump in 2016, was also present, though Michelle Obama chose not to attend.

Prominent Attendees

Tech moguls Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg were seated prominently, signaling a potential rapprochement with the business sector. They joined cabinet nominees, dignitaries, and members of Trump’s family on stage.

Controversial Promises

Trump reiterated his commitment to pardon over 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the January 6 attack, fulfilling a campaign promise to supporters. He has continued to falsely claim the 2020 election was rigged, skipping Biden’s inauguration in 2021 in protest.

In his final acts as president, Biden issued pardons to several individuals targeted by Trump, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Republican Representative Liz Cheney, and General Mark Milley, Trump’s frequent critics during his first term.

Trump’s return to office and his aggressive inaugural agenda underscore a deeply divided political landscape, setting the stage for what promises to be another contentious presidency.