WASHINGTON — The first Wednesday of the new year started with protesters supporting Donald Trump storming the U.S. Capitol.
After excessive vandalism and heavy rioting, tens of thousands of national guard members were sent to our nation’s capital to support the local police and maximize security in DC. Days leading up to the inauguration of our 46th President and first female Vice President, the National Guard was at every corner of Washington DC, amounting to about 25,000 members.
On Jan. 20, a cold day filled with flurries, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were successfully sworn into office after one of the biggest elections in history.
Even though this Inauguration Day was atypical, it was set up for about 200 “VIP’s,” including several former presidents, congressional leaders, and other diplomats who wished to show their support to the incoming President. The Obama’s, Clinton’s, Bush’s, Mitt Romney, and Bernie Sanders attended, proudly watching Biden assume office. Although Trump did not attend the inauguration, Vice President Mike Pence did, depicting a strong image of a peaceful transfer of power. Everyone at this outdoor event wore their masks and no formal dinners or balls were held to celebrate. In addition to this, the public was strongly encouraged to watch the inauguration on television, to maximize the safety of everyone, during the global pandemic.
President Joe Biden has many visions for his presidency, including helping with Covid-19 relief, the environment, and human rights. On his first day as President, he signed executive orders to continue the pause on student loan payments, implemented a mask mandate on federal property, rejoined the World Health Organization, ended the Keystone XL pipeline project, and promoted racial equity in government. Additionally, he lifted the Muslim travel ban, expanded rights for the LGBTQ+ community, and stopped the construction of the southern border wall.
Furthermore, Biden plans to accomplish many things on the agenda for his first 100 days in office. This incorporates hoping to have 100 million Americans vaccinated and raising the national minimum wage. Overall, this shows the President’s determination to push for a progressive plan to help solve major issues in the US.
With no disruption, the inauguration flew by smoothly. Later in the evening, the President and the First Lady watched fireworks from the White House balcony. With a musical performance by Katy Perry behind the Washington Monument, D.C. seemed to have energy like no other place in the U.S. All in all, Americans should expect changes in policies and should be optimistic about what the next four years will hold.