Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, marking his historic return to the White House for a non-consecutive second term. Trump, who previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021, took the oath of office during a scaled-down ceremony at the US Capitol due to harsh weather conditions.
The event began with Vice President JD Vance, a former Ohio Senator, taking his oath of office. Following this, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the presidential oath to Trump at precisely 12 p.m. ET. The ceremony, attended by approximately 700 guests in an indoor setting, contrasted with the traditional large outdoor gathering of 250,000 attendees.
Standing beside First Lady Melania Trump, who held a Bible for the occasion, Trump swore to “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” In his inaugural address, he declared, “The golden age of America begins right now,” emphasizing a renewed focus on making the country “the envy of every nation.”
Trump reiterated his commitment to an “America First” agenda, vowing to protect the nation’s interests and ensure they are no longer taken advantage of on the global stage. He thanked Vice President Vance, the gathered dignitaries, and the American people for their support.
The inauguration marks a new chapter in Trump’s political career, setting the tone for what he describes as a transformative era for the United States.