On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump will be sworn in for his second term as the 45th president of the United States, following his victory over Kamala Harris in the November 2024 presidential election. The inauguration ceremony will take place at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, and will begin at noon ET. Vice President JD Vance will take the oath of office before President Trump, marking the official transfer of power from the outgoing administration.
Inauguration Day is a significant event in American politics, with thousands of spectators gathering along the National Mall to witness the proceedings. The ceremony will begin with the vice-president taking their oath, a tradition dating back to 1884, where they swear to defend the Constitution and perform their duties faithfully. The President is usually sworn in by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and John Roberts is expected to administer the oath for the fifth time.
After being sworn in, President Trump will deliver his inaugural address, outlining his vision and goals for the next four years. This speech marks the beginning of his second term and sets the tone for his administration. Following the address, at 3 pm, a military parade known as the "pass in review" will take place, with the new president inspecting the troops for the first time. The parade will feature regiments, marching bands, and floats, and will travel from the Capitol to the White House along Pennsylvania Avenue, a tradition that dates back to George Washington’s first inauguration in 1789.
In 2025, Inauguration Day coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which happens only once in history. This overlap gives the day added significance, as it is a time to reflect on civil rights alongside the political transition.
In terms of attendance, while tens of thousands of people are expected to attend the event, turnout numbers have been a contentious topic in the past. During Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, debates arose regarding crowd sizes compared to previous inaugurations, especially that of Barack Obama in 2009. Although the National Parks Service does not officially record attendance, large crowds are expected both for the ceremony and protests opposing Trump’s second term.
Tickets to view the inauguration in person from the Capitol grounds are free but must be obtained through local congressional districts. For those unable to secure tickets, large screens on the National Mall will broadcast the ceremony, and it will also be streamed online for viewers at home.
Post a Comment