By HANNAH STEELE – Every four years in America, a peaceful transition of power happens between a former and newly elected president. Exactly that happened on January 20, 2017: a day dreaded by some, revered by others.
Donald J. Trump was recently inaugurated 45th president of the United States. The inauguration festivities began with a “Make America Great Again” celebration the day before. Featuring performances by Toby Keith, 3 Doors Down, John Voigt, Michael Flately, The Piano Guys, and more, the concert was a celebration of beautifully performed patriotic anthems.
One of the most notable performances at the concert was by country music star Toby Keith. Starting his performance with a passionate performance of “American Soldier,” Keith paid tribute to both the former and the incoming president. “Thanks to Barack Obama for your service, and thanks to the 45th president of the United States, Donald Trump,” Keith said to the crowd.
An estimated 800,000 people attended President Trump’s inauguration, while President Obama’s had an estimated 1.8 million people at the 2009 inauguration. Notables who attended were former presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, and John McCain, and former presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, along with the Obama and Trump families were also in attendance.
After numerous speeches, festivities, and celebrations, the inauguration took place. The peaceful transition between Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Mike Pence was the first to take place. Next, the same thing happened between Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump.
Trump delivered a 16-minute-and-12-second inaugural address, focusing on the topic of the promise of a new country that leaves no American behind. “From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land,” Trump stated. “I will fight for you with every breath in my body — and I will never, ever let you down. America will start winning again, winning like never before. We will bring back our jobs. We will bring back our borders. We will bring back our wealth. And we will bring back our dreams.”
Trump’s speech ended with a promise to all Americans. “So to all Americans, in every city near and far, small and large, from mountain to mountain, and 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.”
After the speech, the national anthem was performed by young singer Jackie Evancho. At only 16 years old, her rise to fame began with being the runner-up on the competition, “America’s Got Talent.”
Celebrations after the President and Vice President were sworn in included the inaugural parade, lunch at the Capitol, and the inaugural balls. The Trump family walked in the parade, which included a performance by local school Franklin Regional’s marching band.
“This is going to be the best four, or maybe eight, years for America!” freshman Grace McGee passionately asserted.
“Trump’s inauguration will bring about a new change in this country,” senior Grant Sharp stated. “I am just waiting to see what all of his plans for the future entail.”
Freshman Moe Almieda had a strong opinion about the recent inauguration. “Trump’s inauguration will be the most significant and positive event since the inauguration of Ronald Reagan.”
[PHOTO BY HANNAH STEELE]
