Donald Trump took the oath of office shortly after 12 p.m. on Friday, and he reiterated a broad concept of reforms and initiatives often mentioned on the campaign trail in his Inaugural Address.
Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to President Trump and after a brief period of congratulations, the new President spoke for about 15 minutes.
“Today's ceremony, however, has a very special meaning because today we are not merely transferring power from one administration to another or from one party to another, but we are transferring power from Washington, D.C., and giving it back to you, the people,” Trump said.
Trump reinforced the messages of populism and protection that became his hallmarks in a successful campaign for the White House.
“The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer. Everyone is listening to you now. You came by the tens of millions to become part of a historic movement, the likes of which the world has never seen before,” Trump said.
“From this day forward, it's going to be only America first, America first. Every decision on trade, on taxes, on immigration, on foreign affairs will be made to benefit American workers and American families. We must protect our borders from the ravages of other countries making our product, stealing our companies and destroying our jobs,” he added.
Trump also called out the political establishment he often criticized during his campaign.
“Finally, we must think big and dream even bigger. In America, we understand that a nation is only living as long as it is striving. We will no longer accept politicians who are all talk and no action, constantly complaining but never doing anything about it,” he said.
The new President concluded with a call to action.
“So to all Americans in every city near and far, small and large, from mountain to mountain, from ocean to ocean, hear these words: You will never be ignored again. Your voice, your hopes and your dreams will define our American destiny. And your courage and goodness and love will forever guide us along the way. Together we will make America strong again, we will make America wealthy again, we will make America proud again, we will make America safe again.”
Missing from the speech were specific details about President Trump’s reform plans, which most observers expect to begin this weekend with the signing of new executive orders.
Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama left shortly after the ceremony for a vacation in California, while the Trumps were expected to attend various events related to the inauguration on Friday.
