Donald Trump officially assumed office as the 47th President of the United States in a ceremony held inside the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. The event, traditionally held on the Capitol’s scenic West Lawn, was relocated indoors due to a frigid weather forecast. Vice President JD Vance also took the oath during the proceedings. Trump’s swearing-in marked the beginning of a presidency determined to reshape the country’s policies and its role on the global stage.

In his inaugural address, President Trump outlined a bold and transformative vision for his administration. Among his key priorities were securing the U.S. southern border by declaring a national emergency and halting illegal immigration. He also pledged to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, emphasizing a firm stance on immigration reform. On energy policy, Trump vowed to make America a leading global energy powerhouse by ramping up oil and gas production, repealing the Green New Deal, and ending electric vehicle mandates to protect the auto industry.

Economic reform was another cornerstone of his speech, with Trump announcing the establishment of an “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs and taxes from foreign nations, aiming to enrich American citizens and industries. He also highlighted his administration’s commitment to social policies rooted in a merit-based system, including declaring the recognition of only two genders under federal policy.

The new president stressed his intent to rebuild the U.S. military, pledging to reinstate service members expelled due to COVID-19 vaccine mandates and to halt the implementation of “radical social experiments” in the armed forces. Trump also addressed his commitment to protecting free speech, promising to end government censorship and ensure justice under the Constitution.

Pre-inaugural festivities began with members of Trump’s family and allies participating in celebratory events across Washington, D.C. On the eve of his inauguration, Trump addressed a rally at Capitol One Arena, where he vowed to reverse what he called “American decline” with swift and decisive actions. Earlier in the day, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring fallen soldiers.

In his speech, Trump also touched on international affairs, announcing the return of American hostages from the Middle East and unveiling plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.” He declared his intention to restore President William McKinley’s name to Mount Denali and to reclaim the Panama Canal from Chinese influence.

Trump concluded his address with a call for unity and ambition, invoking the country’s history of resilience and innovation. “Our golden age has just begun,” he proclaimed, urging Americans to dream boldly and work together to achieve greatness. His first actions in office included signing 80 executive orders to reverse policies from the previous administration, setting the stage for a presidency marked by sweeping changes and an assertive agenda.