What Happens During The Presidential Inauguration?

Donald Trump delivering his inauguration speech after his swearing-in ceremony.

The presidential inauguration in the United States of America is a formal ceremony that happens every four years to mark the beginning of a new presidential term. There are many steps and traditions that are involved, which, while changing and evolving over the years, follow certain basic patterns.

First, the president and vice-president begin to perform their duties on January 20. This rule was established by the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1933. Up until that date, inaugurations were held on March 4. The reason behind this change in date was that the period between the election and when the president actually started work needed to be shortened so that the transition could get underway sooner.

The inauguration usually starts in the early morning. People gather at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., where the event is usually held (unless the weather doesn’t cooperate). The president-elect, together with the vice president-elect, moves from the Capitol to the White House. This is part of the tradition, and it symbolizes the transfer of power from the outgoing administration to the new one.

There is also a swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol. First to be sworn in is the vice president, in a process normally involving the outgoing president of the Senate or some other dignitary. The oath for the vice president is straightforward:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God."

The president-elect then takes the oath after the vice president. This is one of the most covered moments in the news. Usually, the Chief Justice of the United States administers the presidential oath:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States."

After taking the oath of office, the president makes an inaugural address. He talks about his vision to the people, addresses national issues, and often sets the tone for his presidency in the speech. These addresses have varied throughout history from very short to quite long.

Once the speeches are over, there is usually an inaugural luncheon hosted by the U.S. Congress. This is an opportunity for the new president to interact with members of Congress and others. The menu often reflects dishes from the president's home state or dishes that hold some personal significance.

Following lunch, the President and Vice President host an inaugural parade. The parade runs down Pennsylvania Avenue, from the Capitol to the White House. It is a celebration where military bands, high school bands from states across the nation, floats, and other groups march to honor the new administration. The president and vice president look at this parade from a stand erected outside of the White House.

However, the day doesn't stop there. Inauguration Day includes a number of different balls and receptions. These events provide the public with an opportunity to celebrate with the new president. Usually, there is an official ball that the president and vice president will attend, but there are also many unofficial balls hosted by different groups. These balls are opportunities for people to dance, celebrate, and sometimes meet the new leaders.

Security is tight at the inauguration. Due to huge crowds and the importance of the event, law enforcement agencies work together for the safety of everyone. The Secret Service protects the president-elect, while the police handle crowd control and traffic.

For those who cannot be present physically, the inauguration is broadcast on television and via the internet. Millions watch it from home, making it one of the most viewed events in the United States. Media coverage includes not just the ceremonies but also analyses and commentary on the new administration's expected policies.

This whole process also includes less visible but very important work, such as the transfer of power in the various government agencies. Staff from the outgoing administration brief incoming officials in order to make sure that a smooth transfer of responsibilities is made. Cabinet members and other appointees are nominated, pending Senate confirmation.

Throughout recent history, inaugurations have adapted to different circumstances. For instance, ceremonies might move indoors or be reduced in scope because of weather or security concerns. As an example, the inauguration of Joe Biden in 2021 was scaled back due to COVID-19, with social distancing measures in place.

An inauguration can be very expensive, and they are funded by either private donations or public money. The total varies, but the cost includes expenses for security, the parade, and the various celebratory events.

In summary, the inauguration is both a traditional and ceremonial event, while also involving practical governance aspects. It's basically a day when the whole nation comes together to witness the transfer of power that defines American democracy. The event is ceremonial but sets the stage for how a president will lead for the next four years.