“From Melania’s wide-brimmed hat to Trump skipping the traditional Bible oath, the 47th President’s swearing-in ceremony had no shortage of memorable moments.”
January 21, 2025: Donald Trump’s second inauguration as the 47th President of the United States may have taken place indoors due to freezing weather, but the ceremony was anything but subdued. Here are some standout moments from the historic event:
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Trump’s Scathing Remarks
The outgoing President Joe Biden, seated nearby, endured a verbal onslaught as Trump accused the previous administration of betraying the American people. Trump declared, “From this moment on, America’s decline is over,” leaving Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visibly unamused.
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Melania’s Hat Foils the Kiss
In a moment meant to celebrate their White House return, Trump and First Lady Melania attempted a public kiss. However, Melania’s oversized Eric Javits hat got in the way, forcing the couple to settle for an awkward air kiss. The viral moment drew quips online, with one commentator joking, “Smart woman.”
Trump tried to kiss Melania at the 60th Presidential Inauguration, but her hat had other plans. pic.twitter.com/w1kaXk4oxj
— Rio (@mario_balkans) January 20, 2025
Silicon Valley Billionaires Front and Center
Trump’s audience included tech moguls like Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, Tim Cook, and Elon Musk, collectively worth nearly $1 trillion. The convergence of tech and politics underscored the stakes of the new administration.
No Bible for the Oath
Breaking from tradition, Trump did not place his hand on a Bible while taking the presidential oath. While Melania held both a family Bible and the historic Lincoln Bible, Trump opted to raise his hand without touching either. This led to speculation about whether it was an intentional break from protocol or an oversight.
Notable Absences
Despite the attendance of former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, notable figures like Michelle Obama and Nancy Pelosi skipped the event. Former First Lady Karen Pence, who recently snubbed Trump at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, was also absent.
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Donald Trump inauguration, Melania Trump air kiss, no Bible oath, Silicon Valley billionaires, presidential ceremony highlights.