Trump’s Inauguration Sparks Controversy Over Bible, Pardons, and Executive Orders

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday, January 19, 2025, President-elect Donald Trump took the oath of office for the second time, raising his right hand and placing his left on a Bible, continuing a tradition dating back to George Washington in 1789. The ceremony, moved indoors due to freezing temperatures, sparked debates over the use of a Trump-branded Bible, potential pardons for January 6 defendants, and a flurry of executive orders set to reshape U.S. policy.

Trump’s inauguration committee confirmed he would use the same two Bibles as in 2017: one gifted by his mother and another used by Abraham Lincoln. However, singer Lee Greenwood hinted at a possible third option—a Trump-branded “God Bless the USA Bible,” a $99.99 special edition co-created with Greenwood. Critics argue the move commercializes the sacred ceremony, while supporters see it as a nod to Trump’s brand of patriotism.

Beyond the Bible, Trump’s inauguration is overshadowed by his plans to issue over 100 executive orders, targeting immigration, energy, and border security. A source told Fox News that Trump will declare a national emergency at the southern border, designate drug cartels as terrorist organizations, and exit the Paris Climate Accords. He is also expected to sign an order ending birthright citizenship, a move likely to face legal challenges.

Trump’s promise to pardon January 6 defendants has further divided the nation. Speaking at a rally Sunday, Trump referred to the convicted rioters as “hostages” and vowed to make his supporters “very happy” with his decisions. Vice President-elect JD Vance, however, has expressed reservations, stating that violent offenders should not be pardoned.

The indoor ceremony, limited to 1,800 guests, has left many Trump supporters disappointed. “We came all the way from Oklahoma to be part of history,” one attendee told MSNBC. Meanwhile, critics mocked the move, with one local bar joking on social media that Trump’s obsession with crowd size might backfire.

As Trump prepares to sign executive orders and reshape federal policy, the nation braces for a presidency marked by controversy and sweeping changes.