Donald Trump has taken the oath of office to become the 47th president of the United States, returning to the White House four years after he left it in defeat.
In his inaugural speech on Monday, Trump, 78, took an aggressive posture, using his podium in the Capitol Rotunda to blast his predecessor, outgoing Democratic President Joe Biden. He highlighted his administration’s ambitious plans for the next four years. Here are the major points and takeaways:
Key Takeaways from President Trump’s Second Inaugural Speech
1. Strengthening US-India Relations
The India-US ties are expected to be stronger under newly sworn-in President Donald Trump and this was indicated at his inauguration in the White House on Monday, where External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, who attended the event as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s special envoy, was offered a seat in the front row, alongside Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa. This marked a significant upgrade in official protocol. While Jaishankar was seated in the front row at Trump’s inaugural ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya was seated two rows behind.
2. No Mention of NATO or European Allies, Focus on China
Trump’s speech omitted NATO and any emphasis on alliances with Europe in his 30-minute-long speech, which exhibits a departure from traditional diplomacy. Trump understands that the European dependence on the American security umbrella has not benefited the US and taking them seriously is unnecessary. Instead, his rhetoric targeted China’s economic practices and its influence on the global stage. He knows the looming threat of China on the US global and regional hegemony and vowed to reinforce a tough stance on the country.
3. Withdrawal from WHO and Paris Climate Agreement
Trump confirmed that the US will officially withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris climate agreement. He criticized these organizations, claiming they have failed to serve America’s interests effectively. This is not the first time he did it. Previously, during his first term he withdrew from the Paris Agreement in 2019, citing agreement imposes unfair burdens on the American economy.
4. Renaming the Gulf of Mexico
In a bold move, Trump announced the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.” He framed this change as a statement of national pride and sovereignty. A preview of the orders suggested that the renaming of the two natural landmarks is part of Trump’s effort to honour “American greatness.”
5. Vivek Ramaswamy Excluded from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
Trump clarified that entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy would not play a role in the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). However, the President did not elaborate on the reasoning behind this decision. Ramaswamy posted on X about his disengagement with DOGe citing personal political goals in the upcoming Ohio governer election in 2016.
Also Read: Vivek Ramaswamy exits from DOGE: Racial targeting or Political Ambitions at play?
6. Pardoning January 6 Supporters
Trump issued pardons for an unspecified number of individuals who faced charges related to the January 6 Capitol Hill violence. He described the pardons as part of his commitment to justice and reconciliation. The pardon order can be seen as a symbol of loyalty towards its American supporters.
7. Declaring a National Emergency at the Mexican Border
Trump acted on his election promises and announced a national emergency to address illegal immigration. Measures include halting all illegal border crossings, reinstating the “remain in Mexico” policy, ending catch-and-release practices, and deploying troops to secure the southern border. He also labelled cartels as foreign terrorist organizations to combat their influence.
8. Declaring a National Energy Emergency
Trump declared a national energy emergency aimed at reducing energy costs and achieving energy independence. He pledged to resume domestic oil drilling, refill strategic reserves, and end the Green New Deal and electric vehicle mandates. This decision may cost his election partner Elon Musk’s electric car business.
9. Official Recognition of Two Genders
The Trump administration adopted a formal policy recognizing only two genders, male and female. This was framed as a return to traditional values and a rejection of government social engineering that is costing Wokesim in the US society.
10. Signing of Executive Orders
Trump outlined a series of executive actions, in which some of them are extremely important.
Immigration and Border Security: Measures to return undocumented immigrants to their countries and strengthen border enforcement.
Energy Policy: Reinvigorating the oil and gas industry and ending environmental policies that hinder economic growth.
Trade and Manufacturing: Establishing the External Revenue Service to collect tariffs and prioritize American manufacturing.
Free Speech: Ending government censorship and restoring free expression.
Military Policies: Reinstating service members discharged over vaccine mandates and ending social experiments in the armed forces.
Education and Health: Reforming education to focus on merit and addressing public health issues.
President Trump’s address was filled with ambitious promises and a vision of a stronger, more independent America. His administration aims to prioritize national interests, restore traditional values, and solidify its leadership on the global stage without losing its regional dominance in the American continent.