The inauguration of President Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States is shaping up to be a historic event. Scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2025, this swearing-in marks Trump’s return to the presidency after an eight-year absence. Despite cold weather forcing the ceremony indoors to the Capitol Rotunda, the event promises grandeur, high-profile attendees, and a glimpse into Trump’s vision for his second term.
Watch Live
You can watch the full inauguration day proceedings, including President Trump’s swearing-in and inaugural address, live via our player on Monday. The event lineup includes performances by renowned artists, appearances by global leaders, and a highly anticipated address by the president.
What to Expect: A Star-Studded Ceremony
Inside the Capitol Rotunda
The Capitol Rotunda, with its limited capacity of 600 people, will host Trump’s swearing-in. Among the attendees will be his family, prominent business leaders, Supreme Court justices, Cabinet nominees, and congressional representatives. Notable attendees include:
- Trump’s Family: Melania Trump, the president’s five children, and grandchildren. Donald Trump Jr. and Lara Trump, who have taken on significant roles in Trump’s campaign, are expected to feature prominently.
- Business and Tech Leaders: High-profile figures such as Elon Musk (Tesla and X), Mark Zuckerberg (Meta), Shou Zi Chew (TikTok), Jeff Bezos (Amazon), and Sam Altman (OpenAI) are invited.
- Congressional Members: The Rotunda will accommodate 535 members of Congress, though some Democratic lawmakers are expected to skip the ceremony.
Performances: Country, Disco, and Patriotic Hits
The ceremony and inaugural balls will feature an eclectic lineup of performers, blending patriotic themes with pop culture icons:
- Carrie Underwood: The eight-time Grammy winner will sing “America the Beautiful” before Trump takes the oath of office.
- The Village People: The legendary disco group will perform their iconic hit “Y.M.C.A.” at both a rally and an inaugural ball, celebrating the viral trend from Trump’s campaign rallies.
- Christopher Macchio: The opera singer will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner”.
- Lee Greenwood: Known for his patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA”, Greenwood is a Trump favorite.
- Gavin DeGraw: The singer-songwriter will entertain attendees at one of the inaugural balls.
- Country Stars: Jason Aldean, Parker McCollum, and Rascal Flatts will perform at the other two inaugural balls, adding a Southern touch to the celebrations.
The Inaugural Address
President Trump’s inaugural address is expected to highlight his key campaign themes of unity, strength, and fairness. Known for delivering speeches that mix bold promises with critiques of opponents, Trump has hinted at major policy goals for his second term:
- Immigration: Launching the largest deportation operation in history and sealing the U.S.-Mexico border.
- Economic Policies: Ushering in a “golden age” through aggressive tariffs on imports and other protectionist measures.
- Unity and Strength: Trump promises to emphasize fairness in governance while addressing past political turmoil.
In his own words to NBC News, Trump stated, “You have to treat people fairly. … We went through hell for four years, and something has to be done about it.”
Foreign Leaders in Attendance
For the first time in U.S. history, foreign leaders have been invited to attend a presidential inauguration. Confirmed attendees include:
- Argentina: President Javier Milei.
- Italy: Premier Giorgia Meloni.
- Ecuador: Representatives of President Daniel Noboa.
- Paraguay: Representatives of President Santiago Peña.
- China: Vice President Han Zheng, representing President Xi Jinping.
This unprecedented inclusion of international leaders underscores Trump’s global outreach and the significance of his return to the White House.
A New Era Begins
Donald Trump’s second inauguration is not just a political milestone but a moment of cultural and historical significance. From the Capitol Rotunda to the inaugural balls, the day promises a mix of tradition, innovation, and Trump’s signature flair. As the president outlines his vision for America’s future, all eyes will be on Washington, D.C., as this new chapter unfolds.
Stay tuned to our live coverage to witness history in the making.
