Trump Joins History: 47th U.S. President Sworn In
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Trump’s Day One: Sworn In and Setting the Tone
On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. The ceremony, steeped in tradition, coincided with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, adding historical significance. Due to extreme cold and high winds, the event was moved indoors to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, ensuring the safety and comfort of attendees.
Below is a breakdown of the key events, participants, actions from the inauguration, as well as implications for small businesses.
1. Inauguration Day Facts
- Morning Ceremony: The event began with the United States Marine Band performing alongside choirs from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
- Invocation: Clergy members delivered prayers referencing King Solomon, Daniel, and Aaron, emphasizing wisdom and unity.
- National Anthem: Sung by Christopher Dean Macchio.
- Oath of Office: Administered by Chief Justice John Roberts using two Bibles: Trump's grandmother's bible and the historic Lincoln Bible.
- Inaugural Address: A forward-looking speech, Trump laid out his administration’s priorities.
Trump's Oath: No Hand on the Bible—What does this Mean?
The U.S. Constitution does not require a president to place their hand on a Bible when taking the oath. Article VI states the oath binds the president without a religious test, and Article II only requires the oath to be recited. Ending with "so help me God" is customary but not mandated.
2. Inaugural Address Highlights
In his address, President Trump outlined several key initiatives:
a. National Security
- Declared a national emergency at the southern border to halt the "Catch and Release" policy.
- Designated Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations under the Alien Enemies Act.
b. Economic Revival
- Announced plans to increase domestic oil and gas production, aiming to reduce energy costs and bolster manufacturing.
- Proposed tariffs on imports from countries like China, Mexico, and Canada to protect U.S. industries.
c. Regulatory Changes
- Rescinded the "electric vehicle mandate," allowing automakers greater flexibility in production choices.
- Established the Department of Government Efficiency, appointing Elon Musk to lead efforts in streamlining federal operations.
d. Social Policies
- Voiced opposition to the "social engineering" of gender policies, reaffirming recognition of only two genders: male and female.
Trump's Vision: Bold Actions for America
Trump's first day in office saw 42 executive orders, 115 personnel actions, over 200 executive decisions, and 60 minutes of press Q&A setting the tone for his term:
- Energy and Environment: Withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, emphasizing national interests over international commitments; Lifted restrictions on oil drilling, particularly in Alaska.
- Immigration and Border Security: Terminated the CBP One program, signaling a shift in border management strategies; Resumed construction of the border wall, reallocating funds to enhance physical barriers.
- Healthcare and Social Services: Reversed policies related to gender identity in federal programs, impacting healthcare and education sector; Directed agencies to cease diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives; Service members dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccines will be reinstated with back pay.
- Government Operations: Implemented a federal hiring freeze, excluding military and public safety positions, to control government spending; Established the Department of Government Efficiency, tasking it with reducing bureaucratic redundancies.
- Foreign Policy and Trade: Imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, effective February 1, 2025, to encourage domestic production; Initiated the process to withdraw from the World Health Organization, citing the need for sovereignty in health decisions.
Find the complete list of all Executive Orders through the White House.
What This Means for Small Businesses
Small businesses can expect significant policy shifts:
- Lower Energy Costs: Increased domestic energy production could reduce utility expenses.
- Tariffs: New trade barriers may protect local manufacturers but raise the cost of imported goods.
- Regulatory Changes: Businesses in sectors like automotive and manufacturing may see relief from emissions-related regulations.
- Tax Policies: Proposed tax incentives aim to encourage small business growth and investment.
Donald Trump Becomes 47th U.S. President: Watch the Full Ceremony
photo credit:
iStock.com/bpperry
The White House