ANNAPOLIS, MD—Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, marking his return to power after a four-year hiatus. In his inaugural address, Trump pledged to “completely and totally reverse” the actions of his predecessor, Joe Biden, whom he accused of leading the country into decline.

Trump, who overcame impeachments and criminal indictments during his previous term, planned to act swiftly after the ceremony. He signed dozens of executive orders aimed at restricting border crossings, boosting fossil fuel development, and eliminating diversity and inclusion initiatives within the federal government.

These orders represent the first step in what Trump calls “the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense,” dismantling the Democratic agenda pursued by Biden, whose term concluded at noon on Monday. Trump, addressing a “crisis of trust” in government, vowed to restore sovereignty, safety, and justice during his administration. He emphasized a mandate to reverse what he perceived as a “horrible betrayal,” promising to return faith, wealth, democracy, and freedom to the American people.

“From this moment on,” Trump declared, with Biden observing from the front row, “America’s decline is over.”

Due to severe weather conditions, the swearing-in ceremony took place indoors at the Capitol Rotunda for the first time in 40 years. The traditional inaugural parade was replaced by an event at a downtown arena, leaving many Trump supporters who had gathered in Washington D.C. to witness the festivities outside the Capitol seeking alternative viewing locations.

Governor Wes Moore issued the following statement regarding the inauguration of President Donald Trump:

“The pe​aceful transfer of power is not something we invented – it’s something we inherited from our founders, starting right here in the Annapolis State House when in 1783, General George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief. Democracy is our greatest heirloom as a nation, and it’s something we hope to pass on and make more enduring for the next generation.

“Our priority has been ​– and will continue to be – protecting the interests of all Marylanders. In the days after the 2024 election, we articulated our shared dedication to four key principles: Deliver for Marylanders; defend our constitutional rights; grow our economy; and restore faith in our public servants, our institutions, and our democracy. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their steadfast partnership in pursuing each of these four goals, and we will partner with the Trump-Vance Administration when we are aligned on those core principles that will make progress for Marylanders. We pray for God’s grace as our state and nation open this next chapter.”

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Chris Montcalmo Photography