Donald Trump, 78, was sworn in during an indoor ceremony, joined by Vice President JD Vance. He is now the second U.S. president, after Grover Cleveland, to reclaim the presidency after losing an election. Trump also holds the record as the oldest president to take office.
The coldest temperatures recorded at an inauguration forced the event indoors, reminiscent of Ronald Reagan’s 1985 swearing-in.
Trump’s administration heralds the onset of a “Golden Age,” yet it also raises concerns with divisive policies, including vows of retribution against political adversaries.
Plans are set to repeal Biden-era policies and implement over 100 executive orders, significantly altering immigration, trade, and civil rights legislation.
With the Republican Party controlling the House and the Senate, Trump’s legislative agenda is expected to encounter minimal resistance, enhancing his power significantly.
The presence of major tech CEOs like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg at the inauguration signals potential regulatory changes that could benefit the industry.
Trump’s foreign policy positions have introduced uncertainty, especially in Europe and Ukraine, with his questioning of U.S. aid and NATO contributions. French leadership has expressed concerns about U.S. dominance under Trump’s administration, advocating for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy in defence and global affairs as he has questioned and advocated.
Financial markets have reacted positively to Trump’s return, with Bitcoin reaching new heights amid expectations of deregulation in the cryptocurrency sector.
Neighbouring countries like Canada and Mexico are preparing for potential challenges, and Trump’s comments on territories such as Greenland and Panama have sparked controversy.
