On the U.S. Capitol steps, the 70-year-old turned to address a crowd of hundreds of thousands for the first time as president on Friday.
Referencing the core values of his winning political campaign, President Trump delivered a forceful 16-minute Inaugural Address, which promised to shatter established order and restore American greatness.
The new-President’s speech painted a dark picture of a deeply divided nation, largely ignored by Washington elites.
“This American carnage stops right here and stops right now,” he declared.
“Washington flourished but the people did not share in its wealth. Politicians prospered, but the jobs left and the factories closed. The establishment protected itself but not the citizens of our country.”
“And while they celebrated in our nation’s capital, there was little to celebrate for struggling families all across our land.”
“That all changes starting right here and right now, because this moment is your moment. It belongs to you. It belongs to everyone gathered here today and everyone watching all across America. This is your day, this is your celebration, and this – the United State of America – is your country.”
President Trump was surrounding by his two daughters, son and wife for the momentous occasion.
“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, ever before,” he assured.
President Trump was flanked by his two daughters Ivanka, 35, and Tiffany, 23, as well as his son Barron, 10, and his wife Melania, 46.
The new president takes control of an undoubtedly polarised country.
Those who sent Trump into office in an attempt to disturb political norms and thwart the establishment, chanted “Trump, Trump, Trump!” in the moments after he assumed power – many of them choosing to wear Trump’s distinctive red “Make America Great Again” baseball caps.
Moments after the 70-year-old’s forceful Inaugural Address.
In contrast, those who remain anxious and fearful of the consequences of Trump’s strongman leadership style saved their applause for Democratic figures, with Bernie Sanders receiving a rousing applause as his face appeared on television screens.
However, perhaps the largest level of applause was reserved for first lady Michelle Obama.
It is interesting to note that many parts of the National Mall – the area open to the public in front of the inauguration ceremony – were left empty.
Estimates on the morning of the inauguration suggested that Mr Trump attracted around 800,000 people to the area, while in contrast, Obama’s first inauguration was attended by 1.8 million people.
More to come…
