Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, 2025, at the Capitol in Washington, D.C. The ceremony will kick off at noon ET, with Trump taking the presidential oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. Just before this, Vice President-elect JD Vance will also be sworn in, marking the transition of power.
This year's inauguration carries with it deep emotional undertones, as it occurs on the fourth anniversary of the January 6 Capitol riot. Many Americans remain haunted by the events of January 6, 2021, when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Notably, Congress will meet to formally certify Trump's victory on the same day, serving as both a celebration of his ascension and a stark reminder of the transition's fragility.
Even the backdrop for the ceremony reflects this irony. The event’s official theme, as described by the Joint Congressional Committee on the inaugural ceremonies, is "Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise." This theme aims to honor the Founding Fathers' dedication to the democratic process.
Flags will be flown at half-staff during the inauguration to commemorate former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. This patriotic gesture has sparked some controversy, particularly among Trump supporters. "The Democrats are all 'giddy' about our magnificent American Flag potentially being at 'half mast' during my inauguration," Trump expressed on his social media platform, reflecting his disdain for the situation.
On the eve of his inauguration, Trump is slated to hold a massive "Make America Great Again Victory Rally," aimed at energizing his base with around 20,000 expected attendees. The rally is set to take place at Capital One Arena on January 19, with doors opening at 11 AM.
Aside from his inaugural celebrations, Trump has garnered attention by vowing to act swiftly concerning the January 6 rioters. “I’m going to be acting very quickly, first day,” he told NBC’s Meet the Press. His promise includes pardoning those convicted as part of the January 6 insurrection, pledging to erase what he terms political retribution against his supporters. This approach is generating significant backlash.
Former Capitol Police sergeant Aquilino Gonell articulated his deep concerns about Trump’s plans, calling them "an outrageous mistake" and stating, "Releasing those who assaulted us from blame would be a desecration of justice. If Mr. Trump wants to heal our divided nation, he’ll let their convictions stand." His haunting reflections give voice to many who served on January 6, emphasizing the risks of undermining the legal consequences for those involved.
The media has ramped up coverage options for those wanting to witness the inauguration, as networks like ABC, CBS, CNN, PBS, and others prepare to broadcast the day’s events live. Anticipation is mixed with apprehension as the public contemplates the dichotomy represented by this inauguration.
The volatile atmosphere surrounding Trump’s inaugural events signals more than just a political proceeding. It positions itself as the genesis of yet another chapter of American governance. Two contrasting experiences will share the same space: the jubilation of Trump’s return—a feat marking his second, non-consecutive term—and the shadows of the violence unleashed four years ago.
With all these elements at play, Trump's inauguration approaches as both celebration and commemoration—a significant moment, yet heavily colored by the past. The illusions of peace surrounding the peaceful transfer of power will be tested as the nation weighs the hopes and worries ignited by Trump’s return.