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Inauguration Day 2025: Trump’s Return to Power

Updated: Mar 6

Today, January 20, 2025, is Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. This commencement marks his second term in office. At the time of publication, the inauguration ceremony had commenced at the Capitol Rotunda. This historic event brings several changes to American Democracy, here’s what to expect. 


Image from Al Jazeera
Image from Al Jazeera

Event Schedule and Notable Attendees:


Today’s Inauguration Day will commence with a traditional service at St. John’s Church, then tea at the White House. The swearing-in ceremony will include musical performances by Carrie Underwood, Village People, and more. Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the presidential oath to Donald Trump, while Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the vice-presidential oath to JD Vance. 


Image from Yahoo
Image from Yahoo

Notable attendees include former President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, who are expected to participate in the peaceful transfer of power traditions. However, some prominent figures, such as Michelle Obama and Nancy Pelosi, will not be in attendance. International dignitaries, including China’s Vice President Han Zheng, are also expected to attend the inauguration. Business leaders such as Elon Musk and Shou Zi Chew, the CEO of TikTok, will also be in attendance, signifying the Trump administration’s close ties with large industrial figures. 

Image per The Strait Times
Image per The Strait Times

Trump’s 2025 Agenda:


President Trump has an ambitious agenda set up for his second presidential term, with plans to sign up to 200 executive orders on Day 1 in office. These orders are aimed at reversing policies previously implemented by the Biden administration. Key initiatives include:


  • Border Security: Trump will declare a state of emergency in the U.S.-Mexico border.

  • Drug Policy: Trump will classify drug cartels as terrorist organizations to create stronger enforcement against these groups.

  • Economic Implementations: Trump plans to extend the 2017 tax cuts and focus on entrepreneurial support to prompt significant economic growth.

  • Pardons: Trump will issue pardons for individuals jailed or charged with crimes for the Capitol Riots on January 6th, 2021.



Cabinet Nominees

Image per KHOU
Image per KHOU

President Trump’s cabinet selections reflect a blend of experienced politicians and unconventional choices aimed at disrupting traditional institutions. Notable nominees include:

  • Secretary of State: Senator Marco Rubio, who is expected to be confirmed on Monday evening.

  • Attorney General: Pam Bondi, former Attorney General of Florida, following the withdrawal of Matt Gaetz from consideration.

  • Defense Secretary: Pete Hegseth, a vocal supporter of President Trump and a former Fox News contributor.

  • Other Key Positions: Figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Elon Musk have been considered for roles, indicating a diverse and unconventional cabinet lineup.


Image taken on January 6, 2021 per NBC News
Image taken on January 6, 2021 per NBC News

Possible Shifts in Democracy:


President Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office may indicate significant changes in the country’s significant framework for democracy. His proposed executive orders and cabinet choices suggest a move toward consolidating executive power. Critics warn that the classification of drug cartels as terrorist organizations and the declaration of a state of emergency at the southern border could expand federal authority in unprecedented ways. Additionally, his emphasis on transparency, particularly through reversing over-classification, is seen by some as a double-edged sword, with the potential to expose sensitive information while fostering accountability. Trump’s pardons for January 6 rioters have also raised questions about the balance between justice and political expediency, potentially influencing future perceptions of accountability within the democratic process.

 
 
 

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