Donald Trump Sworn In for Second Term, Vows ‘Golden Age of America’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025, marking a historic political comeback. The ceremony took place at the U.S. Capitol, where Trump delivered a fiery inaugural address, promising to reverse what he called a “horrible betrayal” of American values and usher in a “golden age of America.”

“My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal, and all of these many betrayals that have taken place, and to give the people back their faith, their wealth, their democracy, and indeed their freedom,” Trump said. His speech painted a stark contrast to the tenure of his predecessor, Joe Biden, who attended the ceremony alongside former first lady Jill Biden.

In off-the-cuff remarks following his address, Trump referred to individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack as “hostages.” He reiterated his promise to pardon some of the rioters on his first day in office. “I was going to talk about the J6 hostages,” Trump said. “But you’ll be happy because, you know, it’s action not words that count.”

Trump also criticized former Reps. Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, who served on the House January 6 Committee and have been vocal critics of his actions following the 2020 election. “And I was going to talk about the things that Joe did today with the pardons of people that were, very, very guilty of very bad crimes, like the Unselect Committee of political thugs,” Trump said.

As Trump took the oath, Biden departed the Capitol aboard Marine One, heading to Joint Base Andrews for a final farewell to Washington. The Bidens and Trumps shared a brief, cordial moment before the departure, with Jill Biden and Melania Trump exchanging hugs. Biden, who served one term, leaves office after a career spanning five decades in politics.

Historians and analysts are divided on Biden’s legacy. While his administration is credited with leading the country out of the COVID-19 pandemic and achieving significant legislative milestones, his 2024 campaign decisions—first to seek reelection and later to drop out—may overshadow his accomplishments. Surveys show mixed public sentiment about his presidency.

In his final Oval Office speech on January 15, Biden warned of the dangers of an emerging “oligarchy” in the U.S., though he did not mention Trump by name. “Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy,” Biden said. He also expressed concerns about the rise of a “tech-industrial complex” and its potential risks to the nation.

Biden’s farewell letter, shared on the same day, highlighted his administration’s achievements, including creating 16.6 million jobs and strengthening the economy. “History is in your hands,” he wrote. “The power is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands.”

Trump’s inauguration ceremony featured performances by Christopher Macchio, who sang the national anthem, and remarks from religious leaders, including Rabbi Ari Berman and Reverend Frank Mann. The event was attended by former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, along with their spouses. Notably absent was former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who also missed Jimmy Carter‘s funeral the previous week.

As Trump begins his second term, the nation remains deeply divided. His promises to reverse Biden’s policies and address perceived injustices will likely shape the early days of his administration. Meanwhile, Biden’s legacy will be scrutinized in the years to come, as historians assess his impact on American politics and society.