On January 20, 2025, President-elect Donald Trump will officially begin his second term as the 47th President of the United States. The inauguration ceremony, a cornerstone of American democracy, will take place in Washington, D.C., albeit with some adjustments due to extreme weather conditions.
Arrival in Washington and Pre-Inauguration Events
Trump arrived in Washington on January 18 aboard a military C-32 aircraft, designated Special Air Mission 47. Accompanied by his family, he traveled from Palm Beach, Florida. Upon arrival, he participated in celebratory events at the Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia, before proceeding to Blair House, the presidential guest residence, where he spent the night.
Inauguration Day Schedule
The day begins with a traditional morning prayer service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, commonly referred to as the “Church of Presidents,” located near the White House. Pastor Robert Fisher will lead the service, providing a moment of calm and reflection for Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance.
Following the service, Trump and his wife Melania will meet President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at the White House for tea, continuing the tradition of a symbolic handover of leadership.
Weather-Induced Changes to the Ceremony
The swearing-in ceremony, originally planned for the Capitol’s West Front, has been moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to forecasts of -7°C temperatures and strong winds. This marks the first indoor inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s second term in 1985.
The shift to the Rotunda significantly limits the number of attendees, excluding most of the 220,000 ticketed guests. However, supporters can view the event on large screens at Capital One Arena, a 20,000-seat venue in downtown Washington.
The Inaugural Ceremony
The ceremony will commence at 9:30 a.m. with performances by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Choir and the U.S. Marine Corps Band. Senator Amy Klobuchar will preside over the proceedings, leading to the swearing-in of Vice President-elect Vance and President-elect Trump.
Vice Presidential Oath
Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the oath to J.D. Vance, who will use his family Bible for the occasion. The vice-presidential oath, though not constitutionally fixed, includes a pledge to defend the U.S. Constitution and faithfully execute the duties of the office.
Presidential Oath
Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the presidential oath to Trump at 12 p.m. Trump will place his hand on two Bibles: his personal Bible from 1955 and the historic Lincoln Bible, as he did during his 2017 inauguration. The oath, mandated by Article II, Section 1, Clause 8 of the Constitution, will be recited:
“I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Musical Performances and Closing Festivities
Singer Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful” during the ceremony. The inaugural events will conclude with a celebratory parade and evening gala, marking the formal start of Trump’s second term.
This inauguration not only highlights the continuity of American leadership but also showcases the adaptability of tradition in response to unforeseen challenges.
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Source: Vietnam Insider