Published 08:40 IST, January 20th 2025
Donald Trump's Inauguration: What To Expect From New US President - Policies, Immigration, Visa, Tariffs
On the eve of his second inauguration, Donald Trump promised sweeping immigration reforms, including the largest deportation campaign in US history.
Donald Trump energized thousands of supporters at a rally in Washington, D.C., on the eve of his inauguration, vowing immediate and dramatic action on immigration and border security. Speaking at the "Make America Great Again Victory Rally" inside the packed Capital One Arena, Trump declared his intent to fulfill the core promises of his campaign starting on Day 1.
"By the time the sun sets tomorrow, the invasion of our country will have come to a halt," Trump said to raucous applause, as reported by Reuters. The rally showcased his signature style: a mix of boasts, bold promises, and criticism of his predecessors, mirroring the tone of his previous campaigns.
Immigration and Border Security: A Central Theme
Trump reiterated his plan to launch the largest deportation operation in US history, aimed at removing millions of immigrants. While details remain sparse, the scope of such an initiative would require significant time and resources. Immigration advocates have raised concerns about the impact on long-term residents with US-citizen family members.
In a move underscoring his focus on border security, Trump plans to classify drug cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations" and reinstate the "Remain in Mexico" policy.
He also intends to declare an emergency at the US-Mexico border on his first day in office, according to sources familiar with the planning, as reported by Reuters.
A Historic Political Moment
Describing his victory as unparalleled, Trump proclaimed, "This is the greatest political movement in American history, and 75 days ago, we achieved the most epic political victory our country has ever seen." He promised swift action to address what he called the crises facing the nation, stating, "Starting tomorrow, I will act with historic speed and strength."
As mentioned in the report by Reuters, the rally also marked Trump’s return to Washington after his January 6, 2021, speech, which preceded the storming of the U.S. Capitol. He pledged to pardon many of the more than 1,500 individuals charged or convicted in connection with the attack, a controversial move that has drawn widespread criticism.
Ambitious Executive Orders on Day 1
Trump’s first day in office is set to include over 200 executive actions, according to insiders cited in the report by Reuters. A significant portion will focus on repealing Biden-era policies, which Trump labeled as "radical and foolish."
Among these are directives targeting military reforms and a proposal for a missile defence shield over the US, although details remain unclear.
Unveiling Historical Secrets
Adding to his ambitious agenda, Trump promised to release classified documents related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert Kennedy, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
The atmosphere in Washington was electric, with Trump supporters, many in red MAGA hats and jackets, lining the streets despite freezing temperatures. Val Tordjman, 58, traveled from Denver for the occasion.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said as mentioned in the report by Reuters. Despite the ceremony’s relocation indoors due to the bitter cold, Tordjman remained undeterred, spending the night near the arena.
Security and Inauguration Preparations
Security across the capital has been heightened, with steel fences and 25,000 law enforcement personnel deployed around key areas, including the Capitol and White House. Trump will take the presidential oath of office inside the Capitol rotunda, with indoor festivities replacing outdoor events due to frigid weather.
TikTok and Tech Titans Join the Scene
Hours after Trump promised to delay a US ban on TikTok, the app’s CEO Shou Zi Chew announced its service return and attended the rally. Elon Musk , a close Trump confidant, also made a brief appearance on stage. Both tech leaders are expected to join Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
Biden Bids Farewell
Outgoing President Joe Biden marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Charleston, South Carolina, delivering a message of resilience to fellow Democrats. Speaking at Royal Missionary Baptist Church, Biden honoured King’s legacy and urged his party to stay hopeful despite recent challenges.
As Trump prepares to assume office amid heightened tensions and ambitious promises, his inauguration sets the stage for a presidency marked by swift, controversial action and high expectations.
Updated 16:52 IST, January 20th 2025