World leaders and dignatories gathered to watch Mr Trump become the 47th President of the USA.
Donald Trump is to become the 47th President of the United States (Image: Sky News)
Donald Trump has been officially inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States of America.
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Mr Trump became the president for a historic non-consecutive term after swearing an oath on the Bible at midday local time (5pm GMT).
World leaders, dignatories and politicians gathered in Washington DC for the event, including the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, however, was not among them. Mr Trump is said to have snubbed Sir Keir because he “undermined the US election”, according to Elon Musk.
The Prime Minister has since sent a grovelling message to the new President via X, sending his “warmest congratulations” and hopes that the “special relationship” between the UK and the US “will continue to flourish for years to come”.
We are following the main events in our live blog below.
Moment Donald Trump sworn in as 47th U.S. President at inauguration
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KEY EVENTS
Thousands of desperate migrants head to US border to beat Trump’s brutal changes18:51
What happens next?17:54
Donald Trump is now officially President of the United States17:02
King Charles congratulates Trump16:34
Elon Musk arrives at Trump’s inauguration15:44
Trump to order Gulf of Mexico renamed to ‘Gulf of America’15:41
Trump to declare ‘national emergency’ at US-Mexico border14:35
Boris Johnson attends church service alongside Trump14:17
Trump and Melania arrive for church service – seen for the first time today13:45
Who is and isn’t attending?11:14
What time is Donald Trump’s inauguration?11:02
Who’s performing at the inauguration?10:48
Who is in America from the UK?09:44
William Morgan
Trump’s major ‘Day One’ executive actions
President Donald Trump has had a busy day. Not only did he have the pomp and ceremony of his second inauguration and a series of formal balls, but he also signed a series of executive actions to fulfil some of the promises he made to MAGA supporters on the campaign trail.
While on stage at a celebratory rally, Trump signed a series of orders in front of crowds of adoring fans, repealing 78 of his predecessor President Joe Biden’s own Executive Orders and making a few of his own. Then, he took to the Oval Office to sign dozens more.
These included:
Repealing birthright citizenship for people with foreign parents who are born in the United States
Withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement for a second time
Withdrawing from the World Health Organisation for a second time
Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America
Renaming the largest American mountain to Mt Mckinley, removing its native name Denali
Revoking the use of the word “gender” by federal agencies, using “sex” instead Pardoning or commuting the criminal sentences of over 1500 Jan 6 rioters
William Morgan
Bizarre moment as Trump dances with sword
At the end of his first ball of the night, Trump and his new Vice President JD Vance were presented with sabers to cut an Air Force One shaped cake.
In a bizarre moment, when one of President Trump’s favourite tunes began to play, he lifted the cake-cutting sabre and began to dance.
William Morgan
Letter from Biden found while cameras roll
While signing around 80 executive actions and orders in front of reporters and camera crews, Donald Trump discovered a letter from Biden that had been left in the desk of the Oval Office desk after returning to the White House after his inauguration.
Trump was asked if Biden had left a letter in the famous Resolute Desk, after fumbling with the drawers, he found a small white envelope. Trump gave an audible ‘ooh’ before holding the letter to cameras, revealing it was simply addressed to ’47’ – with Biden addressing his successor by number rather than name. Trump chose to set the letter aside to read later, as he continued signing his long-promised executive orders.
Joe Biden followed the tradition initiated by Ronald Reagan, leaving a letter for his successor during the transition of power. Biden confirmed writing a letter to Trump but chose not to disclose its contents, preferring to keep it between them.
(Image: Getty)
William Morgan
Trump frees 1500 January 6 ‘hostages’
President Trump has now returned to the White House after a lengthy inauguration day, where one of his first moves has been to pardon or commute the sentences of roughly 1500 people who stormed the Capitol on January 6, after his previous election loss.
It puts to an end a four-year investigation to identify and imprison those who stormed the steps of Congress in January 2021, with the aim of stopping the ratification of the 2020 election. Some fought with and injured Capitol police, others brought a hangman’s noose for Trump’s then-vice president and chanted, “Hang Mike Pence.”
He told the press: “We hope they come out tonight, frankly.”
President Trump made one of his first acts the pardoning of more than 1500 people (Image: )
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William Morgan
Senator Marco Rubio wins confirmation vote 99-0
Senator Marco Rubio has been approved as Secretary of State in a rare bipartisan vote, winning the approval of the Senate 99 to 0. This position places Rubio at the head of a powerful government agency, the US State Department and makes him one of Trump’s principal advisors on foreign policy.
As Secretary of State, the former Senator will be fourth in the line of succession and the second most powerful politician in Trump’s orbit, after Vice President JD Vance. Rubio, 53, is the son of Cuban migrants and the first member of his immediate family to be born a US citizen.
During Trump’s first run for office in 2016, Rubio was among his principal opponents in the primary and a vocal critic of his politics. However, with the MAGA movement in full control of the Republican party, he has become one of his most vocal supporters in the years since.
Speaking on the Senate floor after the resounding vote, Secretary Rubio said: “I hope it’s because they know me and my sense is most of them voted for me because they thought I’d do a great job, and maybe a few because they wanted to get rid of me. All kidding aside, it’s a great honour.”
(Image: Getty)
William Morgan
Trump signs Executive Orders live on TV
Newly inaugurated President Trump, after a lengthy speech about the election, the campaign ran against him by the Democrats, and the January 6 insurrectionists that occupied the US Capitol in 2021, has begun to sign Executive Orders on live television.
Sat at a miniature wooden desk with the seal of the President of the United States, Trump signed a series of orders that would “undo” up to 80 policies set out under the Biden administration. He said to his supporters: “Could you imagine Biden doing this? I don’t think so.”
This included withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement, ending the “politicisation” and legal prosecution of himself, telling all federal employees that they could no longer work from home, and a nebulous order to end the cost-of-living crisis faced by millions of Americans.
After showing the Executive Orders to the crowd, President Trump began to throw the pens he used to sign the documents into the crowd to chants of “USA.”
President Trump signing orders live on air (Image: ABC)
William Morgan
Body language expert reveals Kamala Harris’ silent message
President Trump’s defeated opponent, Kamala Harris, gave a silent response to the scathing criticism she and President Biden received during the inauguration.
A body language expert, pointing out how both of them remained seated throughout, while the 45th and 47th President Trump slammed their “betrayal” of US interests.
Trump declared in his inauguration address: “My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal and all of these many betrayals that have taken place – and to give the people back their faith, their democracy and, indeed, their freedom.”
Read the full story here.
William Morgan
Trump’s appointments gain legislator approval
President Trump, his Vice President JD Vance, and their families are continuing to watch the speeches in the Capital One hall, but taking a moment to speak with the families of Israeli hostages still being held captive in Gaza.
However, on the other side of Washington, Trump’s major picks for his cabinet look set to be approved – despite facing fierce criticism in the media and on Capitol Hill for some of his choices.
Florida Senator Marco Rubio looks set to be the US’ next Secretary of State. He will vote on his own confirmation in the coming hours and is expected to win the Senate’s approval easily, despite being one of Trump’s harshest critics during his first run for office.
While a more controversial choice, the Fox News host Pete Hegseth, who has previously served in the US armed forces but has faced criticism for his personal conduct, was given the nod by the Armed Services Committee in a tight 14-13 vote, while Trump continued to enjoy his lengthy inauguration rally.
Speaking to thousands of his fans packed into the arena, President Trump was bullish, saying: “We won, we won, but now the work begins…As soon as we leave, I will be heading to the Oval Office, and we will be signing pardons for a lot of people.”
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
Donald Trump arrives in the arena
The new president is met with wild applause by thousands of loyal fans, many of whom have queued since the early hours of the morning.
He took to the stage, where a desk has been set up, clutching a folder believed to contain executive orders that he has promised to sign on day one.
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
The First Family take their seats
There are loud cheers for Barron Trump as he takes to the stage in the arena ahead of his father’s third speech of the day.
(Image: Getty)
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
A desk has been set up on stage
The stage at the Capital One Arena has been set up as crowds prepare to welcome the new president.
Could he be about to sign his first executive orders as president on stage in front of his loyal supporters?
Conor Wilson
Trump motorcade sets off for Capital One Arena
Donald Trump and his presidential motorcade have left the Capitol as they head to an arena in downtown Washington where the new president will address supporters.
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
Trump leaves Inauguration Lunch
Donald Trump has left the Inauguration Lunch but here is what he and his guests were served:
First Course
Chesapeake Crab Cake with tomato tartar, bay sauce, pickled vegetables, romanesco, dill, and chive oil Chardonnay, Veritas Vineyards ‘Reserve,’ Monticello, VirginiaSecond Course
Greater Omaha Angus Ribeye Steak with Thumbelina carrots, broccoli rabe, carrot top herb sauce, red wine truffle jus, and potato gratin Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, CaliforniaThird Course
Minnesota Apple Ice Box Terrine with sour cream ice cream and salted caramel Korbel Russian River Valley Natural, Sonoma County, California
(Image: Getty)
The first loss of the second Trump administration?
Vivek Ramaswamy will leave his role as joint leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reports CBS News.
Ramaswamy had been appointed to lead the department along with Elon Musk but it is understood that tensions have become strained between the pair.
It is believed that Ramaswamy will run to become Governer of Ohio, a seat open after JD Vance became Vice President.
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
Elon Musk accused of making ‘Hitler Salute’
Elon Musk has been accused of making a “Hitler salute” while addressing crowds at Trump’s inauguration.
The Space X founder was thanking crowds when he appeared to make the odd gesture which many online have compared to the salute performed by German officials in the Third Reich.
Despite the uproar on Musk’s own platform, X, it appeared that the moment was one of excitement and festivity, rather than an intentional reference to Adolf Hitler.
Conor Wilson
Trump set for Washington rally
Crowds are filling a basketball stadium in downtown Washington in preparation for the new president to make an appearance later today.
Trump is expected to speak at the event which is being held in place of the traditional parade which has had to be altered due to poor weather.
Elon Musk and several cabinet appointees have already spoken to crowds as they wait for the new president.
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
Trump is in office – what has changed already?
Donald Trump has made several promises about what would happen on the day he assumes the office of president for the second time.
There will be plenty of announcements over the coming hours and days but Trump used his inauguration speech to announce several executive orders that he will sign today. Here is what we know so far:
– A national emergency is set to be declared at the US/Mexican border, with American troops deployed to combat illegal immigration.
– The “border wall”, one of Trump’s signature policies from his first presidency will see construction resumed.
– The president has vowed to scrap birthright citizenship, meaning that those born on US soil will no longer automatically become US citizens.
– A memorandum on inflation which promises an “all government to response” to national economic emergencies.
– The declaration of a national energy emergency will see Biden’s restrictions on drilling for oil reveresed as well as a host of policy changes related to EV vehicles and climate funding.
– Trump used his second speech in an overflow room at the Capital to promise a restoration of the federal death penalty, another reversal of changes made by Joe Biden.
– The Gulf of Mexico will be renamed the Gulf of America.
– There first of his “common sense executive orders”. This will see a federal law introduced to state that there are only two genders: male and female.
– Cut funding to diversity initiatives.
– Overturn an executive order given by Joe Biden that allows transgender people to serve in the military.
– An extension for TikTok to find an American buyer
Conor Wilson
King Charles sends congratulations
The King has sent a personal message to President Trump, reflecting on the special relationship between the two countries, Buckingham Palace has said.
Emily Wright
Trump attends congressional lunch
President Trump, JD Vance and their wives are now attending the congressional lunch at Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol.
It is hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.
Food on the menu today includes, according to the BBC, Chesapeake Crab Cake, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Minnesota Apple Ice Box Terrine with sour cream ice cream and salted caramel.
Trump attends congressional lunch. (Image: Getty)
Mieka Smiles
How Trump’s body language shows ‘more restrained’ leadership
Body language expert Inbaal Honigman said Donald Trump’s posture showed the world could be set for a very different president than the first time around.
Speaking to Covers.com, she said: “In ensuring that his hands remain firmly on the podium without deviation, it shows that he’ll govern differently.
“His nonconformist style is gone – in body language and possibly also in governance.
“His leadership will be more restrained, more traditional.”
Inbaal added his whole address was very different to that of the 2017 inauguration.
She said: “He takes his time saying his lines, pausing frequently.
“Those pauses are likely moments for him to remember what he wants to say, so there’s not as much off-the-cuff commentary.
“We don’t see any gurning or comedy gestures.
“This new Trump is more programmed, more mechanical, less spontaneous. This could signal a desire to be taken seriously, and to be viewed as a great president.
“Keeping his hands on the podium must have been a conscious decision, perhaps even an instruction from a coach – because 2017 Trump was pointing, fist-pumping and gesturing throughout the inaugural address.”
Emily Wright
Thousands of desperate migrants head to US border to beat Trump’s brutal changes
In the hours leading up to Trump taking office, thousands of desparate migrants have raced to the US border, hoping to beat the brutal changes that the new president is set to impose.
One of the biggest human caravans was seen in Tapachula, Mexico.
Within seconds of being sworn in and while still in the Capitol building, Mr Trump immediately ended the use of the US order app called CBP One. This has allowed migrants to legally enter the country.
The move shut off a key pathway for people looking to come to the US.
Homeland Security officials have cited the app as helping drive down migrant crossings by providing an orderly way to apply to the States. With it now gone and restrictions in place, the border is effectively shut to asylum seekers.
Existing appointments have all been cancelled.
Thousands of desperate migrants head to US border to beat Trump’s brutal changes. (Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
Donald Trump addresses supporters in an overflow room
The last-minute change of venue meant that fewer people were able to hear the new president speak.
He is now giving a speech in an overflow room at the Capitol flanked by his Vice President JD Vance and Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Mike Johnson.
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Conor Wilson
Keir Starmer has sent his congratulations despite not attending
The Prime Minister has sent his congratulations to the incoming US President, stating that he hopes that the “special relationship between the UK and the US will continue to flourish for years to come.”
Conor Wilson
Joe and Jill Biden leave the Capitol
New president Donald Trump and First Lady Melania accompanied the outgoing Bidens to a waiting helicopter ready to fly them back to Delaware
(Image: Getty)
Conor Wilson
World leaders begin to send their congratulations
One of the big questions facing the early days of the Trump presidency will be how the US continues to support Ukraine.
Trump has vowed to end the war on day one, although he has not expanded on how he plans to do that.
In his inauguration speech, the new president spoke of “peace through strength” – something Ukraine will be hoping includes sustained support for their war with Russia.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky was amongst the first to send his congratulations.
Emily Wright
What happens next?
After the swearing-in ceremony ends, the events of inauguration day continue as follows:
Farewell to the Former President and Vice President – formal farewell held for Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris as they depart the Capitol.
The President’s Signing Room Ceremony – President Trump will head to the President’s Room for a signing ceremony, where members of Congress watch as the newly sworn in president signs nominations, memorandums or executive orders.
JCCIC Congressional Luncheon – the new president and vice president will attend a luncheon at Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.
The President’s Review of the Troops – After lunch, they will head to the East Front steps of the Capitol, where they are to review the military troops.
Presidential Parade – Because of cold weather, Trump is moving the traditional parade down Pennsylvania Avenue to Washington’s Capitol One Arena. The event is expected to feature remarks from Trump and marching bands
Oval Office Signing Ceremony at The White House
United States presidential inaugural ball
Emily Wright
‘The American people have spoken’ – Trump concludes inaugural address
President Trump said: “the American people have spoken”.
“I stand before you as proof that you should never believe something is impossible to do. In America, doing the impossible is what we do best,” he said.
“We will not fail. From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign and independent nation,” he concluded.
“The future is ours, and our golden age has just begun.”
Emily Wright
Trump falsely accuses China of operating Panama Canal
Mr Trump declared that the Panama Canal is a “foolish gift that should have never been made” to Panama, before falsely accusing China of “operating” the canal.
“We didn’t give it to China. We’re taking it back,” he said.
Earlier this month, Mr Trump refused to rule out using military force to seize it, also stating that it was being operated by Chinese soliders.
In Panama, meanwhile, a demonstrator has burnt the US flag during a protest outside the residence of the US ambassador in Panama during a rally against Mr Trump’s inauguration.
A demonstrator burns the US flag during a protest in Panama City. (Image: ARNULFO FRANCO / AFP)
Emily Wright
Trump says he will deliver a ‘colour-blind and merit-based’ society
Trump has vowed to forge a society that is “colour-blind and merit-based”, not one that brings race and gender into “every aspect of public and private life,” that the previous administration has done.
He adds that, as of today, it will be official policy of the US government that there are only two genders – male and female.
Emily Wright
Joe Biden and Kamala Harris watch President Trump’s inaugural address
While many are cheering and clapping in the Rotunda as Mr Trump reads his inaugural address, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris watch on with less-than-thrilled reactions.
Joe Biden watching Donald Trump speak. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
National emergency at US-Mexico border to be signed today – return ‘criminal aliens’
Trump went on to detail some of the executive actions he plans to take now that he’s president.
Today, he said, he will sign an executive order declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border.
All illegal entry will “immediately be halted” he said, adding that the government will begin the process of returning millions of “criminal aliens” to where they came from.
Emily Wright
‘America’s decline is over’ – Trump continues his speech
Trump continues that he has been given a mandate to “completely and totally reverse” what he calls “a horrible betrayal” by those in power against the American people adding that he will give people “their faith, their wealth, their democracy and their freedom.”
“From this moment on, America’s decline is over,” he said.
Emily Wright
Former President George W Bush spotted smirking
Former President George W Bush has been spotted smirking during President Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
“George Bush looks like he’s glad nobody around him is blaming him for the newfound fart smell,” one observer wrote on X.
Emily Wright
President criticises Biden’s policies
Trump went on to criticise the Biden administration and its handling of the migrant crisis.
He said the country’s challenges will be “annihilated”, adding that the US is confronting a crisis of “trust over radical and corrupt establishment”.
The previous administration, he stated, has provided sanctuary and protection for “dangerous criminals” who have illegally entered our country.
Emily Wright
Donald Trump’s speech continues
Trump went on to say that America will soon be “greater, stronger, and far more exceptional than ever before”.
He said he returns to the presidency “confident and optimistic” and that it is the “start of a thrilling new era of national success”.
“Sunlight is pouring over the entire world and America has the chance to seize this opportunity like never before,” he added.
Emily Wright
Joe Biden ‘already asleep’ minutes into Donald Trump inauguration
“Sleepy” USA President Joe Biden appeared as though he was already snoozing through Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
Read more here.
Joe Biden ‘already asleep’ minutes into Donald Trump inauguration. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
The Pope slams Trump’s large-scale deportation plan
Pope Francis has blasted Donald Trump’s plans to deport thousands of undocumented migrants from the US after taking office as a “disgrace”.
The President has pledged to launch the biggest-ever deportation of illegal migrants in the country’s history after his inauguration today.
“This won’t do! This is not the way to solve things. That’s not how things are resolved,” he said.
Read more here.
Emily Wright
Trump says top priority is to create a ‘proud, prosperous and free’ nation
“Our sovereignty will be reclaimed, our safety will be restored, the scales of justice will be rebalanced,” he said, adding that “the vicious violent and unfair weaponisation” of the US Justice Department will end.
“Our top priority will be to create a nation that is proud, prosperous and free,” he adds.
Trump gives inaugural address as 47th US president. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
‘The Golden Age begins right now’ – Trump begins inaugural address
Mr Trump begins his inaugural address as the 47th President.
He began by addressing his fellow presidents and others attending the event, before saying: “The Golden Age begins right now”.
“From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected.”
“I will very simply put America first.”
Emily Wright
Donald Trump is now officially President of the United States
Donald Trump has taken the oath of office and is now officially the 47th President of the United States.
He swears to “preserve, protect and defend” the Constitution.
He was sworn in on two Bibles – the Lincoln Bible that has been used by several other presidents including Abraham Lincoln in 1861 – and one given to him by his mother.
Donald Trump is sworn in as President. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
JD Vance is sworn in as Vice President
JD Vance is currently being sworn in as Vice President.
His wife and children watch on.
Emily Wright
Biden issues last-minute pardons for family members
Just minutes before Joe Biden’s administration ends, he has issued pre-emptive pardons for his family, including his brothers James and Francis and his sister Valerie.
“My family has been subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats, motivated solely by a desire to hurt me—the worst kind of partisan politics. Unfortunately, I have no reason to believe these attacks will end,” he said in a statement.
“That is why I am exercising my power under the Constitution to pardon James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden.”
Mr Biden also issued a pardon for his son, Hunter – who was due to face sentencing on federal felony gun and tax convictions – last month.
Emily Wright
Melania Trump awkwardly swerves Donald’s kiss in inauguration ceremony.
Donald Trump and Melania shared an incredibly awkward exchange as the President-elect’s inauguration gets underway.
Read more here.
Melania Trump awkwardly swerves Donald’s kiss in inauguration ceremony. (Image: Sky News)
Emily Wright
Trump arrives to take oath of office
Donald Trump has now arrived at the Capitol Rotunda room.
He will soon be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States.
His wife, the current president and vice president and JD Vance all entered moments before him.
Emily Wright
King Charles congratulates Trump
The King has sent a personal message of congratulations to President Donald Trump on his inauguration, reflecting on the enduring special relationship between the UK and US, Buckingham Palace said.
Emily Wright
Inside Capital One arena – Trump supporters boo Mike Pence
The Capitol One arena is also nearly full, where the crowds will watch on a giant Jumbotron hanging from the ceiling.
Loud boos erupted when pictures of Mike Pence, Mr Trump’s former vice president, arrived in the Rotunda.
There were even bigger boos for the Clintons and President Obama.
Inside Capital One arena. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Sen. John Fetterman arrives in a hoodie and shorts
Sen. John Fetterman arrived at the Capitol sporting a black hoodie, gray shorts and sneakers – staying true to his traditional fashion style and despite freezing temperatures.
Everyone else has arrived in formal attire.
Sen. John Fetterman arrives in a hoodie and shorts (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Supreme court justices arrive
All nine sitting supreme court justices have arrived in the Rotunda.
Retired justice Stephen Breyer is also present.
Emily Wright
Trump’s children enter the Rotunda
Trump’s five children – Eric, Donald Trump Jr., Ivanka, Tiffany and Barron – have now also arrived at the Capitol for their father’s ceremony.
Emily Wright
Argentina President Javier Milei arrives
Argentina’s President Javier Milei, has also arrived at the Capitol for the ceremony.
He is pictured with former Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy.
Argentina President Javier Milei arrives. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Former presidents begin to arrive
Former US Presidents are now starting to arrive.
Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary, arrived, shortly followed by Barack Obama. George W Bush and his wife Laura have also arrived.
Mr Obama’s wife, Michelle, is not present.
The former presidents had gathered earlier this month for Jimmy Carter’s memorial service.
Mike Pence, Trump’s former vice-president who has fallen out with him, is also attending solo as his wife, Karen, refused to greet Mr Trump when they met at Carter’s memorial.
Former US Presidents in the Capitol Rotunda. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump arrives at Capitol for swearing-in ceremony
Donald Trump has arrived at the Capitol, where the main proceedings of today’s inauguration will take place.
Joe Biden walked in by his side.
Emily Wright
Trump and Biden depart White House for swearing-in ceremony
Joe Biden and Donald Trump, along with their spouses and vice-presidents, JD Vance and Kamala Harris, have left the White House.
The two first ladies are sharing a limo, as are Vance and Harris. Trump and Biden are also in the same car.
They will not head to Capitol Hill, where the swearing-in ceremony will take place.
Trump heads to the swearing-in ceremony. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Elon Musk arrives at Trump’s inauguration
Multi-billionaire and Tesla owner Elon Musk has now arrived at the ceremony venue at Capitol Hill.
(Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump to order Gulf of Mexico renamed to ‘Gulf of America’
In his first hours as the 47th president, Donald Trump will issue executive orders to rename two US landmarks.
The Gulf of Mexico will be renamed the Gulf of America and Alaska’s Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, will revert to its former name, Mount McKinley.
This title was held until President Barack Obama renamed it in 2015.
The changes are part of an effort to honour “American greatness”, according to a preview of the orders.
Emily Wright
High-ranking officials start taking their seats
Among the first high-ranking officials to arrive at the Capitol Rotunda was General CQ Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who is sitting on the platform where Trump will take his oath.
Current and former House and Senate leaders also arrived, including former Republican leader Mitch McConnell and his wife, former Trump Cabinet member Elaine Chao.
Former House speakers Kevin McCarthy, John Boehner and Newt Gingrich also took their seats.
Emily Wright
Thousands of Trump supporters gather around US Capitol
Thousands of Trump supporters have gathered around the US Capitol and lined the nearby streets, undeterred by the last-minute shift of the ceremony inside.
Despite their outdoor tickets being invalidated, the crowd remains steadfast, waving flags, chanting slogans and holding signs in support of the incoming president.
Thousands of police and Secret Service officials are on high alert, closely monitoring the area.
Tom Ewald, 43, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, travelled to Washington overnight.
“It’s just great to be a part of such a historic occasion, ” he said. “All of America is hoping he succeeds and we become a better nation for it.”
Emily Wright
Capitol Rotunda ready for inside inauguration
For the first time since 1985, the ceremony will be held inside due to bitterly cold tempratures in Washington DC.
Historically, presidents take the oath outside in front of vast crowds packed onto chairs on the mall.
Proceedings have been shifted inside to the Capitol’s Rotunda.
(Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump arrives at the White House for tea with the Bidens
President Biden and his wife Jill have just welcomed Donald Trump and Melania to the White House.
They will sit down for tea, before heading to the Capitol.
Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff has also welcomed incoming JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance to the White House.
Mr Trump’s family, meanwhile, have arrived at Capitol Hill where he will be sworn in later today.
Biden has welcomed Trump for tea and the White House. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Biden welcomes outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House
President Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden have been pictured with outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff as they arrive at the White House.
Outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris arrives at the White House (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
President Biden shares selfie with his wife, Jill
Outgoing President Joe Biden has shared a selfie with his wife, Jill Biden, as they prepare to leave the White House.
“One more selfie for the road,” he wrote on X. “We love you, America.”
Emily Wright
Trump to declare ‘national emergency’ at US-Mexico border
Incoming White House officials announced that the Trump administration would declare a national emergency at the border and direct the Department of Defense to send armed forced to “erect physical barriers” and complete border wall construction.
In a brief call with reporters, an incoming official said that 10 executive actions will be signed by Donald Trump today, all concerning the border.
Mr Trump will also reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy that requires migrants to wait for their asylum proceedings on the Mexican side before entering America.
Emily Wright
Vladimir Putin congratulates Trump ahead of inauguration
Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Mr Trump ahead of his inauguration, saying he was open to dialogue with the new US administration on Ukraine.
“We welcome Trump’s desire to restore direct contacts with Russia and prevent World War Three,” Putin said in a video call with Russia’s security council on Monday.
He said he would protect Russia’s interests when negotiating an end to the invasion of Ukraine, adding that any long-term peace would require “resolving the original reasons for the crisis” and “respecting the legal interests of all people who live in the region”.
Mr Trump previously promised he would end the war in Ukraine within “24 hours”, claiming his unique relationship with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow him to broker a peace deal swiftly.
He gave no timeline of events, however.
Emily Wright
Boris Johnson attends church service alongside Trump
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has joined Donald Trump and several key figures at the church service.
The White House reports that Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez are sat on the same row as Mr Johnson.
Trump, Melania and their son Barron took seats in the front pew.
The service is now under way.
Emily Wright
Trump and Melania arrive for church service – seen for the first time today
Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have arrived at St John’s Church – the first time we have seen the president-elect on inauguration day.
Vice president-elect JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, have also arrived.
The service will begin at 8:30 am local time (13:30 GMT).
Donald Trump arrives at St John’s Church. (Image: Getty)
Donald Trump and Melania arrive at St John’s Church. (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump’s family arrive at St John’s Church
Mr Trump’s family has now arruived at the church, including Ivanka and Eric Trump and their families.
Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, are on their way.
(Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Biden did not consider blowing off inauguration day traditions like Trump did in 2021
White House officials said there was never any debate as to whether the outgoing president would participate in the ceremonial activities on inauguration day, even though Mr Trump did not do the same four years ago.
One official said it was “very important to him to honor the traditions, do this by the book, and as tradition has laid out.”
In an interview on the Meidas Touch network last month, Biden said he would “of course” attend the inauguration.
“The only president ever to avoid an inauguration is the guy that’s about to be inaugurated.”
Trump did not attend the swearing-in of Democrat Biden as the 46th president on January 20, 2021, becoming the first president in 150 years to break with political tradition.
Emily Wright
Guests start to arrive for St John’s Church service
The first event of inauguration day is set to begin shortly at St. John’s Church for the traditional service that has been attended by many former presidents in the past.
Guests have now started to arrive at the church, which lies a short walk away from the White House. This includes former Associate Attorney General of the US, Rudy Giuliani and the nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife, Cheryl Hines.
The service will begin at 8:30 am local time (1:30 pm GMT).
From here, Mr Trump will attend a tea at the White House with the Bidens, before being driven with the outgoing president to his swearing in ceremony.
Former Associate Attorney General of the US, Rudy Giuliani (Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump set to introduce flurry of executive orders with legal advisers ready to defend in court
Mr Trump will waste no time after he is sworn in and plans to sign a flurry of executive orders – which do not require congressional approval – to push through his agenda and reverse Mr Biden’s.
Mr Trump’s legal advisers are also poised to defend the executive orders in court as they expect they will all be challenged, CNN reports.
Defending these policies will fall to the new Trump Justice Department and will not rely on Department of Justice (DOJ) lawyers to defend their policies.
Emily Wright
Biden issues pre-emptive pardons for Jan 6 committee on his last day
US President Joe Biden – who remains as president until midday EST (5pm GMT) – has issued re-emptive pardons for several figures “threatened with criminal prosecutions”, including Dr Anthony Fauci and former chairman of the Joint Chiefs Mark Milley.
A White House statement says they are for officers who testified at the House Select Committee as well as its members and staff, which investigated the January 6 2021 riot at the US Capitol and Mr Trump’s role in the event.
“These public servants have served our nation with honour and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions,” the White House statement says.
“The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offence.”
(Image: Getty)
Emily Wright
Trump supporters gather despite freezing temperatures
Despite freezing temperatures that forced organisers to move the ceremony inside, Trump supporters are gathering to watch the inauguration on big screens.
With a local time of just after 7am in Washington DC, several have already been there for hours, donning “Make America Great Again” hats.
Temperatures in the city are expected to get no higher than -3C today, according to the Met Office, and a wind chill of -13C.
Despite freezing temperatures Trump supporters are gathering. (Image: Jack Hobbs)
Adam Toms
Counter protests planned
Protests and events are planned to counter the inauguration, Trump’s inauguration today.
These include the National Day of Action and Al Sharpton’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day rally.
It comes after thousands of people gathered in Washington on Saturday.
Reuters reports that activists for women’s rights, racial justice and other causes rallied against incoming policies they say will threaten their constitutional rights.
Protesters gathered ahead of Trump’s inauguration (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
Trump vows to ‘act with historic speed’
After the main inauguration festivities have finished, Mr Trump will head to the White House for an Oval Office ceremony before attending traditional inaugural balls in the evening.
The new President is expected to sign more than 200 executive actions on his first day, Fox News says.
Trump vowed yesterday: “I will act with historic speed and strength and fix every single crisis facing our country.”
He added: “You’re going to see executive orders that are going to make you extremely happy, lots of them, lots. We have to set our country on the proper course.”
Adam Toms
First glimpse of Trump’s speech
It is being reported that President-elect Donald Trump plans to call a “revolution of common sense” in his address later today.
“I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success,” the new President is expected to say.
Mr Trump is set to also say: “A tide of change is sweeping the country. My message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization.”
Trump laid a wreath at Arlington Cemetery yesterday (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
Who is and isn’t attending?
CNN reports that the following people are attending Trump’s inauguration:
– Former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush
– Former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton
– Former President Barack Obama will also attend,
– House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries
– TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew
– Tesla CEO and close Trump ally Elon Musk
– Amazon founder Jeff Bezos
– Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg
But Nancy Pelosi will not attend, as well as Michelle Obama.
Michelle Obama is understood not to be attending the inauguration (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
What time is Donald Trump’s inauguration?
Donald Trump is due to be sworn as US President once again just before 12pm Eastern Standard Time.
This is 5pm in the UK.
Adam Toms
Who’s performing at the inauguration?
Artists are due to perform as part of Mr Trump’s inauguration celebrations
Kid Rock, The Village People, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Greenwood and Liberty University’s Praise Choir have appeared at Trump’s victory rally
Carrie Underwood will perform at the inauguration itself
Jason Aldean and rapper Nelly will perform at the Liberty Ball
Country band Rascal Flatts and singer Parker McCollum will perform at at the Commander-in-Chief Ball
Gavin DeGraw is due to play at the Starlight Ball
Carrie Underwood is performing at the inauguration (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
Starmer set for talks with Trump
It has been reported that Sir Keir Starmer will hold talks with Donald Trump in Washington within weeks.
Mr Trump is weighing up whether to approve the appointment of Lord Mandelson as the UK’s new ambassador in Washington, the fate of the Chagos Islands deal and the extent to which tariffs will hit Britain, PA writes.
The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said Sir Keir would seek early talks with Mr Trump on a range of issues including trade, the war in Ukraine and the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East.
Starmer visited Ukraine last week (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
What is today’s schedule?
Today’s running order is as follows:
A procession to the Capitol
The Vice President’s swearing-in ceremony (JD Vance) the President’s swearing-in ceremony (Donald Trump)
Mr Trump’s inaugural address
The honorary departure of the outgoing President and Vice President (Joe Biden, Kamala Harris)
The signing ceremony – Mr Trump will sign nominations, memorandums, proclamations or executive orders The inaugural luncheon
The pass in review – the President and Vice President review military troops
The presidential parade, taking place at Capital One arena in downtown Washington because of the cold
Trump supports have flocked to Washington DC (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
David Lammy expects Trump to back Chagos deal
Labour’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said that he expects Donald Trump to back a deal to give up sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, and lease back the Diego Garcia military base used by the US, PA reports.
Mr Lammy said “The arrangement that we have on Diego Garcia basically has kept the global community safe since 1973. It’s been in some jeopardy because of rulings in the ICJ (International Court of Justice) and the United Nations.
“That’s why the last government began negotiating a new deal for the Chagos Islands. They went 11 rounds in negotiations.
“We picked that up. We came up with a deal that was supported by the Pentagon, the State Department and the White House.
“It’s right and proper that Donald Trump looks at that deal and is confident about that deal.
“But I would say that this has been through an inter-agency process in the United States and I suspect he will come to the same conclusions as the last administration.”
Diego Garcia hosts a joint UK-US air base (Image: Getty)
Adam Toms
Who is in America from the UK?
The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will not be in Washington DC for Trump’s inauguration today.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, and the party’s Chairman, Zia Yusuf, are in the city.
Former Conservative PM, Liz Truss, has also shared a photo of herself in the US wearing a red MAGA hat and blue coat.
Ex-Tory Home Secretary, Suella Braverman and her husband, Rael, are also in the country. The pair were spotted walking alongside Laurence Fox at the airport after landing.
Adam Toms
Trump hints at first actions as President
Mr Trump has said that he will sign close to 100 executive orders on his first day in office.
These will go about repealing policies enacted by President Joe Biden.
Mr Trump said at a victory rally in Washington DC yesterday: ”
“Starting tomorrow, I will act with historic speed of strength and fix every single crisis facing our country.”
He added: “Every radical, foolish executive order of the Biden administration will be repealed within hours of when I take the oath of office. You’re gonna have a lot of fun watching television.
“Somebody said yesterday, don’t sign so many in one day, let’s do it over a period of weeks. I said, like hell … no, we’re doing them tomorrow.”
Welcome to the live blog
Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States later today.
The Washington DC ceremony is to begin at 5pm UK time.
Follow all the latest in this live blog as the day unfolds
Trump supports have gathered in Washington DC (Image: Getty)
