Donald Trump officially took the oath of office as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, marking the beginning of his second term.

The ceremony took place at the Capitol Rotunda shortly after noon, with the traditional outdoor festivities moved indoors due to freezing temperatures and snow.

Jan 20, 2025; Washington, DC, USA; Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump holds the Bible during the 60th Presidential Inauguration in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Monday, Jan. 20, 2025. Mandatory Credit: Julia Demaree Nikhinson-Pool via Imagn Images

During his inaugural address, President Trump reflected on his near-death experience over the summer, referencing an assassination attempt that occurred while he was on the campaign trail.

“Those who wish to stop our cause have tried to take my freedom, and indeed, take my life,” Trump said. “An assassin’s bullet ripped through my ear, but I felt then, and now, that my life was saved for a reason. I was saved by God to make America great again.”

The statement drew a standing ovation from Republicans in attendance.

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The incident occurred on July 13, 2024, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a gunman fired at Trump, narrowly grazing his ear. Trump took cover behind the lectern as Secret Service agents shielded him from further danger.

A second assassination attempt occurred in September at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, further underscoring the challenges he faced during the campaign.

Shortly after the ceremony, the White House website was updated to reflect the new administration.

Featuring a photograph of Trump pointing with the slogan “America is Back,” the revamped site emphasized the administration’s focus on revitalizing the nation.

“Every single day I will be fighting for you with every breath in my body. I will not rest until we have delivered the strong, safe, and prosperous America that our children deserve and that you deserve. This will truly be the golden age of America,” the website declares.

The inaugural parade is scheduled to take place at Capital One Arena later Monday afternoon.

Like the swearing-in ceremony, the parade was moved indoors due to inclement weather, marking a rare deviation from tradition.

The day’s events celebrate Trump’s return to the presidency after a highly contentious election cycle.

His campaign emphasized themes of patriotism, economic recovery, and national security, which resonated with his base and contributed to his victory.

Trump’s inauguration signals the start of a new chapter for the country as he implements his vision for what he described as a “golden age.”

His administration faces a divided political landscape but has pledged to prioritize the economy, border security, and foreign policy during the first 100 days.

As Trump embarks on his second term, the day’s events highlight his resilience and the determination of his supporters, who have remained steadfast throughout his political career.

The inauguration sets the stage for what promises to be a defining period in American history.

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