Trump’s second inauguration was themed around “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.”

Article by Dean Millard, Senior White House Correspondent

WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump was sworn in at noon on Monday in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. The inauguration, moved inside due to cold conditions, was expected to look much different than in previous years. Former presidents, the Supreme Court Justices, former opponents, political allies, and Trump’s family members sat behind him as he delivered remarks in the Rotunda.

In his Inaugural Address, Trump began by saying, “the golden age of America begins right now.”

Trump acknowledged his inauguration being the same day as Martin Luther King Day. “For American citizens, January 20, 2025, is Liberation Day.” He later addressed the holiday specifically, saying, “Today is Martin Luther King Day. And his honor — this will be a great honor. But in his honor, we will strive together to make his dream a reality. We will make his dream come true.” 

He criticized Biden’s presidency as Biden sat right behind him. Hillary Clinton laughed when Trump said he would rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. Trump stated that the U.S. will only recognize two genders moving forward.

At the end of his address, he restated, “The future is ours, and our golden age has just begun.”

In the overflow room in Emancipation Hall, Trump was met with “U-S-A" cheers. JD Vance spoke first, speaking about the significance of their victory in the 2024 election.

When Trump spoke, he complimented the overflow audience, acknowledged how warm being inside was, and highlighted the acoustics in the Rotunda. He congratulated JD Vance, Mike Johnson, and Greg Abbott. He acknowledged Steve Scalise, saying “he’s our hero.” Before concluding this speech, he criticized Joe Biden’s presidency and pardons in his final days in office.

In his remarks before departing from D.C., Biden encouraged Americans. He complimented the American people’s persistence, highlighting how “We never give up.” Biden later said, “We’re leaving office, we’re not leaving the fight. […] We believe in you.”

Trump then signed official papers in the President’s Room. He was surrounded by Hakeem Jeffries, Mike Johnson, Steve Scalise, and other Congressional leaders. Melania Trump stood behind him as he sat at the desk.

Throughout the day, Trump supporters filled Capital One Arena to see him officially begin his second term. The crowd booed when Biden was seen on the arena’s screens departing D.C. There was a desk on stage for Trump to sign executive orders in front of the crowd. Speakers in the arena included Elon Musk, Kash Patel, and Byron Donalds.

Musk danced and celebrated as he walked out on stage. He began by screaming, “This is what victory feels like!” Musk later continued, “This [election] really mattered...and I just want to say thank you.”

The luncheon was attended by Trump’s family, allies, and colleagues. There was applause for the Congressional leaders from both parties as they ceremonially entered the room. He shook the hands of others in the room and ate his meal alongside Melania Trump and Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Trump and his family concluded the day together at the Commander in Chief Ball, followed by the Liberty Ball.