International Desk
21 January
Ludhiana
Journalist Sandeep Dhand
Donald Trump, 78, was sworn in today as the 47th President of the United States, marking the beginning of his second term in office. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the US Capitol, where Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office. Trump placed his hand on two Bibles—his family Bible and the Bible used by Abraham Lincoln during his inauguration in 1861.
J.D. Vance also took the oath as Vice President, placing his hand on a Bible gifted by his great-grandmother. This historic event showcased continuity in American traditions while setting the stage for a new chapter in US leadership.
A Ceremony of Unity Amidst a Chilly Washington
Despite the freezing weather, the ceremony was conducted in an open hall, emphasizing transparency and tradition. Before the event, outgoing President Joe Biden welcomed Trump at the White House with tea and coffee. In a symbolic gesture of unity, Biden shook hands with Trump and said, “Welcome home.”
Trump, accompanied by his family, began his day with prayers at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The ceremony also included a 21-gun salute to honor his return to the presidency.
Global Leaders and Prominent Figures Attend
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who represented India and brought a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Trump. Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita were also present, showcasing India’s significant presence at the occasion.
Other notable attendees included Apple CEO Tim Cook, Tesla’s Elon Musk, Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and TikTok CEO Shou Chew. Political figures such as Ivanka Trump, Lara Trump, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Argentine President Javier Milley, Senator Marco Rubio, and Vivek Ramaswamy also graced the event. Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and businessman Jeff Bezos added to the global representation.
A Focus on Institutional Change
In his inaugural speech, Trump emphasized his vision for a renewed America, highlighting the need for a “new look” at US institutions. He vowed to strengthen the country’s core values while ensuring innovation and global leadership in the years to come.
Post-Ceremony Celebrations
Following the ceremony, a lunch was organized for over 200 distinguished guests, including Supreme Court judges, cabinet nominees, members of Congress, and family members of the President and Vice President. The event symbolized both celebration and a renewed commitment to serving the American people.
A Message of Collaboration
Trump’s second term begins amidst significant global challenges and opportunities. With leaders like Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in attendance and messages of unity from leaders worldwide, the ceremony underlined the importance of collaboration in shaping the future.
As Trump embarks on his second term, his administration faces the task of navigating domestic and international complexities while delivering on promises of progress and unity. The presence of prominent figures from politics, business, and technology underscores the global interest in the direction America will take under Trump’s leadership.
This historic inauguration marks the continuation of a legacy, with the world watching as the Trump administration begins its journey anew.