Trump Inaugurated as 47th President, Vows Swift Action on Immigration, Energy

WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, marking a historic political comeback after overcoming two impeachments, multiple criminal indictments, and assassination attempts. Trump, who won a second nonconsecutive term in November 2024, pledged to act swiftly on immigration, energy production, and government reforms during his inaugural address.

Trump’s inauguration, held in the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid weather, signaled the start of what he called “a thrilling new era of national success.” He plans to sign executive orders aimed at jumpstarting deportations, increasing fossil fuel development, and reducing civil service protections. “By the time the sun sets tomorrow evening, the invasion of our borders will have come to a halt,” Trump declared at a rally on Sunday.

Outgoing President Joe Biden issued a series of pardons on Sunday, shielding current and former government officials who had been targets of Trump’s ire. Biden emphasized that the pardons did not imply wrongdoing but were necessary given the “exceptional circumstances” of Trump’s return to power.

Trump’s second term begins with Republicans in control of both the House and Senate, enabling him to pursue an ambitious agenda. He has promised to roll back Biden-era climate policies, enact tariffs on imports, and rebuild the military. However, his narrow congressional majorities and the looming threat of Democratic gains in the 2026 midterms could complicate his plans.

Trump’s resilience has been a hallmark of his political career. After surviving two impeachment trials, four criminal indictments, and a conviction for falsifying business records, he has emerged as a historically significant figure. His victory in 2024 made him only the second president to win nonconsecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland.

At his Sunday rally in Washington, D.C., Trump celebrated his return to power, declaring, “We won.” He also teased executive actions on border security, immigration, and energy policy, promising to deliver “shock and awe” in his first days in office. “Expect shock and awe,” echoed Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who urged Republicans to stay focused on delivering campaign promises.

Trump’s return to the White House has sparked concern among allies and adversaries alike. His “America First” foreign policy, skepticism of international alliances, and admiration for authoritarian leaders like China‘s Xi Jinping and Russia‘s Vladimir Putin have raised questions about the future of U.S. global leadership. Meanwhile, domestic critics fear his aggressive rhetoric and policies could deepen political divisions and threaten civil rights.

As Trump begins his second term, the world watches closely. His ability to deliver on sweeping promises—ranging from ending the war in Ukraine to rebuilding Los Angeles—will determine whether his presidency leaves a lasting legacy or further polarizes the nation.