On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump placed his hand on a Bible in the U.S. Capitol rotunda (the ceremony was moved inside due to cold weather), officially beginning his second term as President of the United States. Despite the familiar pomp and ceremony, the moment arrived amid a national mood charged with debate, demonstrations, and nonstop media commentary. 

Following tradition, President Trump attended a worship service beforehand, accompanied by family and select VIPs, including Elon Musk—who, despite not being born in the U.S., has remarkably ascended the political ladder. By midday, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office, signaling the official beginning (or in this case, continuation) of President Trump’s leadership. During his inaugural address, the President reiterated many themes from his previous speeches and campaign commitments: enhancing manufacturing, cutting taxes and regulations, strengthening border security, and maintaining an “America First” approach to foreign affairs. Notably, he vowed to usher in a “golden era” in American history. 

Following the address, political analysts—columnists, talk-radio hosts, bloggers, college students covering it for class, etc.—quickly began dissecting every line for clues about what “Trump 2.0” might mean for infrastructure, healthcare, immigration, or even Supreme Court nominations. Many expect the style of politics to continue reflecting President Trump’s flair for bold statements and highly polarized reactions. 

For younger voters especially, the day’s events highlighted an ongoing message: it’s critical to stay informed, engaged, and prepared for spirited public debate. The deeply rooted divides in the country remain evident, but so does the enduring ritual of our democracy—replete with inaugural oaths and a reminder that every four years, power is affirmed through a time-tested process. 

Despite the friction and the swirling questions of what comes next, there’s something undeniably American about an inauguration ceremony at the Capitol dome. In many ways, it proves that the US system continues to move forward—sometimes awkwardly, sometimes contentiously, but persistently—one administration (or renewed administration) at a time.


by Chris Cox


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