The Presidential Inauguration is an event that occurs about 70 days after the Presidental election. This chain of ceremonies has been happening since George Washington. This year, the transfer of power went from the Biden administration to the Trump administration. President Donald Trump held his second inauguration this year, the first one being in 2016. This event occurred at 11a.m. on Monday, January 20th. This day included the Vice President and President having a swearing-in ceremony. There was also a signing ceremony, an inaugural address, honorary departure, an inaugural luncheon, pass in review, a procession and parade at the Capitol, and an inaugural ball. This event was a weekend long ordeal.
The events surrounding this notable occasion are very memorable. The procession to the capitol is when the former President accompanies the new President to the capitol for the Swearing-In ceremony. At the capitol, the Vice President, JD Vance, and President, Donald Trump, are sworn under oath into office. There, they give an inaugural address, which is a speech that presents the President-elect’s visions for the next four years. After the Swearing-In ceremonies there is an honorary departure, this is when the former President and First Lady leave the capitol to begin their post-presidential lives. The signing-in ceremony is the first action taken as President of the United States. He signs nominations, memorandums, proclamations, and executive orders. Following these formal events and responsibilities there is a luncheon. After the luncheon concludes, the President and Vice President make their way to the front of the Capitol to view the military troops before leading a procession of military regiments and marching bands. A parade will take place as the President, Vice President, and their guests watch in the Presidential Reviewing Stand.
There were many performers, including Carrie Underwood who sang “America the Beautiful.” There were also many speakers, including: Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Rev. Franklin Graham, Rabbi Ari Berman, Imam Husham Al Husain, Pastor Lorenzo Swell, Rev. Father Frank Mann, John Roberts, Brett Kavanaugh, Elon Musk, and more.
This event was broadcasted on channels like CBS, NBC, and most news stations. There were about 24.6 million viewers across American who tuned in to watch this Inauguration. Most students at Arlington High School watched this event on their televisions at home. AHS senior, Campbell Funk states that, “It was very cool to see the historical significance of every event that took place and I liked the timeline that was followed throughout the day.” She also explained her fascination for the performers and loved that people popular in today’s society were involved.
