Donald Trump Sworn In as 47th U.S. President Amid Polar Cold in Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025, in a ceremony held inside the Capitol due to extreme cold weather gripping Washington. The event marked the beginning of his second term and the end of Joe Biden‘s presidency.

Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to Trump, who pledged to “faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States” and to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.” Trump’s vice president, J.D. Vance, also took the oath, administered by Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, in a ceremony attended by their families and supporters.

In his inaugural address, Trump declared, “January 20, 2025, is the day of liberation.” He framed his election as a mandate to reverse what he called “a horrible betrayal” of American values. “The decline of America is over,” Trump proclaimed, promising to restore sovereignty, security, and justice. He criticized the previous administration for what he described as a “crisis of trust” and vowed to prioritize national prosperity and freedom.

The ceremony, organized by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC), was marked by a mix of cheers and boos from the audience. Supporters wearing red “Make America Great Again” hats applauded Trump and Vance, while figures from the Biden administration were met with jeers.

Outgoing President Joe Biden, in his final hours in office, issued preemptive pardons to family members and allies, citing concerns over partisan attacks. Biden defended the move, stating, “My family has been subjected to relentless attacks and threats motivated solely by the desire to harm me.”

The inauguration also drew notable figures from sports and entertainment, including YouTube-turned-boxing stars Logan and Jake Paul, and MMA icon Conor McGregor. The event concluded with a performance of the patriotic anthem “Oh, America!” by opera singer Christopher Macchio.

As Trump begins his second term, his administration faces significant challenges, including restoring public trust and addressing both domestic and international crises. The new president has pledged rapid action, declaring, “The golden age of America begins now.”