Donald Trump takes oath as 47th US President, promises to ‘make America great again’

Donald Trump takes oath as 47th US President, promises to ‘make America great again’

New Delhi: Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, ushering in a new term with sweeping promises to reshape the nation.

The ceremony, held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid weather, marked a historic moment as Trump overcame a tumultuous past four years — including impeachments, indictments, and assassination attempts — to return to the White House.

In his inaugural address, Trump declared that the country was facing a “crisis of trust” and pledged to restore sovereignty, safety, and justice. He also previewed a series of executive orders designed to immediately tackle issues like immigration, energy policy, and diversity programs in the federal government.

Trump wasted no time in signalling his intent to act quickly and decisively in office. He is set to sign a flurry of executive orders targeting immigration and border security, including a crackdown on illegal crossings and a potential reimplementation of the “Remain in Mexico” policy. Among his other priorities are increasing fossil fuel development by rolling back Biden-era climate regulations and halting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within federal agencies. These DEI programs, long criticized by conservatives, are expected to be dismantled through an order directing federal agencies to eliminate practices that give preference based on race, gender, and sexual orientation.

The incoming administration is also poised to make significant moves on energy policy, with plans to expand domestic oil and gas production. Trump’s agenda promises to undo much of the environmental and social progress made during Joe Biden’s presidency, signaling a sharp policy shift.

A return to ‘America First’

Trump’s return to office will reignite his “America First” foreign policy, which emphasizes national sovereignty. With the Russia-Ukraine conflict nearing its third year and a tenuous ceasefire in place between Israel and Hamas, Trump’s approach to global affairs will be closely watched by both allies and adversaries. His first day in office will likely include lifting the effective ban on TikTok, the Chinese-owned social media platform, through one of many executive orders expected to be issued. Trump had previously taken a hard stance on China, but his administration’s relationship with the country will be critical as both nations navigate an increasingly tense geopolitical environment.

Additionally, Trump has indicated he will prioritize border security and immigration reforms. Among the most controversial moves will be a renewed effort to declare a national emergency at the southern border and introduce a constitutionally questionable attempt to end birthright citizenship. These moves, coupled with legislative efforts from the Republican-controlled Congress, suggest Trump’s administration will swiftly roll back policies implemented during Biden’s presidency while doubling down on his previous agenda to limit immigration and tighten security.

With his political comeback now complete, Trump’s second term is set to be marked by aggressive executive actions, conservative-driven policies, and a focus on undoing the legacy of the previous administration. The stage is set for a deeply divided political landscape as Democrats grapple with how to oppose or work with a reinvigorated Trump White House.

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