Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday at 10:30 pm IST. This will be the second time in American history that a President has returned to power after being defeated again. Due to the severe cold, the swearing-in ceremony will be moved from the Capitol steps and held in the Rotunda. The Rotunda is a large, domed room located in the center of the Capitol building.
Historical Background: Similarities between Grover Cleveland and Trump
Donald Trump is the second president after Grover Cleveland in the more than 230-year history of American democracy to re-take office after losing the election. Grover Cleveland served as the 22nd and 24th president in the 1880s and 1890s.
In 2021, Trump distanced himself from President Joe Biden’s inauguration and denounced the 2020 election results, saying the election was “stolen” from him. It was the first time in 150 years that a former president had boycotted the formal transfer of power.
Place and importance of oath taking ceremony
Due to security reasons and weather conditions, the ceremony will be held in the Rotunda. Here Trump will give his inaugural speech. This is the same location where rioters attacked the Capitol after the 2020 election. During the ceremony, Donald Trump will take the oath of office by placing his hand on the Lincoln Bible and his family Bible. According to the US Constitution, the swearing-in ceremony is a mandatory tradition.
Text of the oath:
“I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully discharge the office of President of the United States, and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Who will attend the function?
Breaking tradition, Donald Trump has invited many foreign leaders to the event.
- Indian representation: From the Indian side, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar will attend. This step is being considered a symbol of further strengthening of relations between India and America. PM Modi and Trump had cordial relations during 2017 to 2021.
- Reliance Chief: Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita Ambani have also been invited. He met Trump at a pre-ceremony held in Washington.
- Involvement of technology and sports world: Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg will host a black-tie reception, and UFC stars are also expected to be in attendance.
Security and event management
The security of the swearing-in ceremony has been entrusted to the United States Secret Service. However, this time the number of guests coming in person will be limited. Only 600 people can attend the Rotunda.
Trump revealed on his social media platform “Truth Social” that DC’s Capital One Arena will be opened to 20,000 spectators for live performances and the presidential parade.
Parades and other events
After the swearing-in, a traditional parade will be held from the Capitol to the White House. This will include military regiments, civilian groups and marching bands. Trump also announced that he would address the crowd at Capital One Arena after the parade.
Trump’s historic speech and the importance of the Bible
Trump’s inaugural address will clarify his political vision and future agenda. During the swearing in he will use the Lincoln Bible, used by Abraham Lincoln in 1861, and his family Bible.
History of Bible Tradition:
- George Washington was the first to take the oath by placing his hand on the Bible.
- Most presidents use a special family Bible.
