Donald Trump pulled off the shock political comeback of the century, getting sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday. Defying the odds, including four criminal indictments and two assassination attempts, Trump took the oath inside the Capitol Rotunda, becoming only the second US leader after Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms.
“America’s Decline Is Over”
In a fiery inaugural speech, Trump declared: “The golden age of America begins right now. From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world.” He dubbed the day “liberation day” and promised to undo the failures of the previous administration.
The 78-year-old was flanked by Vice President JD Vance as he laid out a bold agenda, vowing mass deportations, ramped-up oil drilling, and fresh tariffs on foreign imports. “From this moment on, America’s decline is over,” he proclaimed.
Chilly Ceremony with Star-Studded Guests
Freezing weather pushed the inauguration indoors but didn’t cool the star power. Opera singer Christopher Macchio and country star Carrie Underwood stunned with her a cappella version of “America the Beautiful.” Former presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton all turned out. Tech titans Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg also attended, underscoring the event’s high profile.
Trump’s Sweeping “Common Sense” Agenda
Trump pledged to sign over 100 executive orders on day one. His line-up includes:
- Declaring a national emergency at the southern border.
- Boosting domestic oil production with the rallying cry “drill, baby, drill.”
- Recognising only two genders in federal policy.
- Classifying drug cartels as foreign terrorist organisations.
- Renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.
He also vowed a renewed space race, aiming to land Americans on Mars. “We will pursue our manifest destiny into the stars,” he promised.
From Controversy to Comeback
Trump’s journey back to power was anything but smooth. His first term saw two impeachments and ended with the fallout from the January 6 Capitol attack in 2021. He later faced legal blows, including a conviction over hush money payments and election interference charges in Georgia. Yet through a fierce populist campaign, he won over key battleground states and expanded his support among Hispanic, Black, and younger voters.
Unity… And Retribution
Trump called for unity but made clear his presidency would strike back. “Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponised to persecute political opponents,” he vowed, referencing his own legal battles. “The American people have spoken. Many thought this comeback was impossible, but here I am.”
A Nation Divided Looks Ahead
Trump’s new term promises a seismic shift in US policy, pushing protectionism, energy independence, and an “America First” approach. Critics, mainly Democrats, warn of a presidency fuelled by vengeance and division.
Ending his speech on a rallying cry, Trump said: “We will stand bravely, we will live proudly, we will dream boldly. From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation.”
With Trump back in charge, America steps into an era of both hope and uncertainty under his contentious leadership.
