Written by David Collins.
At first glance, President Donald Trump’s second inauguration might have seemed like a celebration of America’s longstanding democratic traditions. With all living former presidents present and the outgoing leader amicably greeting his successor, the event was steeped in the formalities Americans have come to associate with the peaceful transfer of power. Yet, beneath the polished surface, this moment contained elements that many saw as a warning sign for the country’s democratic health.
A Ceremony Shadowed by History
Trump’s swearing-in ceremony unfolded under highly unusual circumstances. Frigid January temperatures pushed the event indoors to the Capitol Rotunda—a location loaded with significance due to its role during the January 6th, 2021 riots. On that day, the same space had been the epicenter of chaos, with rioters seeking to overturn the 2020 election. The symbolism of Trump walking through the west front tunnel, a site of some of the most intense clashes between rioters and law enforcement, was not lost on the public.
Even as Trump reclaimed the presidency, he revisited the grievances that have defined much of his political rhetoric. Although his formal speech stuck to themes of unity and progress, an impromptu second address veered into familiar territory, as he repeated baseless claims about his 2020 loss. These remarks stood in sharp contrast to the inauguration’s broader narrative of democracy’s endurance and progress.
The Transfer of Power: A Stark Contrast
The inauguration’s optics diverged significantly from Trump’s exit in 2021, when he opted not to attend Biden’s swearing-in. This time, both leaders stood side by side, projecting an image of civility. Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar, chair of the joint congressional inaugural committee, emphasized the resilience of American democracy in her remarks. Her speech highlighted the unique character of U.S. presidential inaugurations, which occur not in a palace but in “the people’s house.”
Klobuchar also took the opportunity to commend first responders battling wildfires in Southern California, drawing a metaphor between their courage and the grit needed to sustain democracy. For many, her words were an attempt to anchor the day’s events in hope and unity—a delicate task given the contentious political atmosphere.
Controversial Pardons and Political Fallout
Adding to the complexity of the day, outgoing President Joe Biden issued a series of preemptive pardons. Among the recipients were high-profile figures such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, former General Mark Milley, and individuals who had testified before the January 6th committee. These pardons, described by Biden as an effort to protect individuals from undue harm caused by politically motivated investigations, drew sharp criticism from Trump and his allies.
Trump’s response was characteristically combative. During his second speech, he disparaged figures like Liz Cheney, one of his most prominent Republican critics, whom he referred to as “a crying lunatic.” The pardons also included former Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone, who had testified about the violence he experienced during the Capitol riots. Fanone’s reaction captured the nation’s unease: “I just can’t believe that this is my country.”
Our Take
The events surrounding Trump’s second inauguration underscore a troubling reality: America’s political divisions are deeper than ever. While the peaceful transfer of power remains a cornerstone of democracy, the rhetoric and actions of leaders on both sides have fueled distrust and polarization. Trump’s repeated falsehoods about the 2020 election and Biden’s extraordinary use of pardons set a dangerous precedent, undermining public confidence in democratic institutions. This escalating cycle of retribution and division harms the public, making it harder to address pressing issues like border security, inflation, and foreign conflicts. America must find a way to bridge these divides before the very fabric of its democracy unravels.
