Donald Trump has been inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, kicking off his second term following a comeback victory in November’s election. During his inaugural address, Trump painted a vision of revitalized American prosperity while sharply criticizing the policies of his predecessor.

“The golden age of America begins right now,” Trump proclaimed. “From this day forward, our country will thrive and command respect across the globe.”

Unlike his first inaugural address eight years ago, which emphasized industrial decline and foreign exploitation, Trump’s tone initially leaned toward optimism. However, he quickly shifted to a critique of the previous administration, accusing it of mismanaging domestic crises and contributing to instability abroad.

In an unusual move for an inaugural speech, Trump delved into specific policy promises. He vowed to declare a national emergency at the southern border, enhance immigration enforcement, and rescind mandates tied to electric vehicles and other elements of the Green New Deal. He also promised sweeping actions on free speech and censorship, declaring his intent to issue an executive order aimed at addressing these issues.

On the global stage, Trump signaled dramatic shifts in U.S. policy. He pledged to reclaim the Panama Canal and reignite space exploration, specifically targeting a mission to Mars. “We will plant the stars and stripes on the Red Planet,” he declared, drawing applause from attendees, including tech billionaire Elon Musk. Some of his statements, such as the claim that the Panama Canal is controlled by China, sparked controversy and fact-checking.

Trump also reignited cultural debates, declaring that the federal government would officially recognize only two genders, male and female. “This will be the policy of the United States,” he said, earning enthusiastic applause from supporters at the event.

Following the official ceremony, Trump delivered a separate, unscripted address to supporters, where he offered candid commentary on various issues. He revisited his grievances about the 2020 election, repeating unsubstantiated claims of fraud. “That election was rigged, but this time we made it too big to steal,” Trump said, energizing the crowd.

He also vowed to address what he called the “weaponization” of government institutions, pledging to rebalance the justice system. Trump reiterated his intent to pardon individuals convicted in connection to the January 6 Capitol riot, framing it as a move toward justice for his supporters.

The inaugural event was marked by tension, with former President Joe Biden and other Democratic leaders in attendance. Trump’s criticisms of the prior administration’s handling of crises, from wildfires to public health, drew visible reactions from the audience. Biden, seated behind Trump, appeared composed but occasionally smirked at some of Trump’s remarks.

Despite the polarizing atmosphere, the inauguration was an endorsement of the peaceful transfer of power, with Biden inviting Trump to the White House earlier in the day—a tradition Trump did not extend to Biden in 2021.

As Trump begins his second term, his bold rhetoric and sweeping promises signal a presidency that may challenge norms and intensify political divisions. How his ambitious agenda unfolds remains to be seen, but the tone of his inauguration suggests an unrelenting focus on his base and his vision for the country.

Image is in the public domain and was created by The Trump White House.