Trump Sworn in for Second Term Amidst Polar Vortex, Pledges Unity While Outlining Divisive Policies

Donald Trump was inaugurated for a second term as President of the United States in a subdued, indoor ceremony at the Capitol on Monday, shielded from the biting cold of a polar vortex, Al Jazeera reports.

Despite the weather and the change in venue, supporters flocked to Washington to celebrate, while pockets of protesters made their voices heard.

In his inaugural address, delivered at the Capital One Arena, Trump promised to be a “peacemaker and unifier,” a stark contrast to the divisive policy proposals he concurrently laid out. These included a harsh crackdown on irregular immigration and a pledge to “take back” the Panama Canal, echoing familiar campaign rhetoric.

“Above all, my message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor and vitality of history’s greatest civilization,” Trump said. “So as we liberate our nation, we will lead it to new heights of victory and success.”

The change in venue from the traditional outdoor ceremony was a last-minute decision, made on Friday, due to the severe weather conditions. While a live broadcast was set up, the 20,000-seat arena couldn’t accommodate all those wishing to attend, leaving many supporters outside angling for a spot.

Despite the logistical changes, Trump’s loyal base showed up in force, wearing “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) gear and queuing for blocks to access the arena. This demonstration of support contrasted sharply with the smaller number of protesters present, a significant difference from his first inauguration which was marked by widespread demonstrations. The frigid temperatures and the indoor venue may have deterred some protesters, while others may have simply felt resigned to Trump’s return.

Trump’s speech was punctuated by jabs at his predecessor, Joe Biden, and a reaffirmation of his hardline campaign promises. He declared.

“The golden age of America begins right now,” he said, promising to make the country “the envy of every nation.”

One mile north of the Capitol, about 200 protesters gathered at Meridian Park, voicing their opposition to Trump’s policies on mass deportations, his support for Israel, and his stance on reproductive rights.

The new administration wasted no time in enacting changes. Within hours of his swearing-in, Trump initiated several executive actions, most notably regarding immigration. These included declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, deploying troops there, and reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy. He also announced plans to designate Mexican drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations” and “eliminate the presence of all foreign gangs and criminal networks”.

One of his first moves was to shut down the CBP One app, used by asylum seekers to book appointments for processing at the border, canceling all existing appointments. Videos surfaced showing migrants visibly distraught upon learning of the cancellation.

On the economic front, Trump pledged to address record inflation, bring down costs and prices, and broadly deregulate the energy industry, championing increased fossil fuel extraction.

“We will drill, baby, drill,” he declared.

The inauguration itself was a relatively low-key event, mirroring many of his campaign speeches.

Biden Issues Pardons Ahead of Departure

In a move widely seen as preemptive, former President Biden issued a flurry of pardons on his final day in office. Those pardoned included his siblings and their spouses, Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and members of Congress who had investigated Trump’s role in the January 6th Capitol riot.

Following the inauguration, Biden left Washington, with a final message to his staff.

“We’re leaving office, but we’re not leaving the fight.”

Trump’s presence was immediately felt at the White House, as he ordered the US flags to be raised to full-staff, ending the 30-day period of mourning for former Pr esident Jimmy Carter. The flags, according to Trump’s proclamation, will be returned to half-staff at the end of the day.