Tue Jan 21 03:34:24 UTC 2025: ## Trump Sworn In as 47th US President, Issues Mass Pardons and Sparks Controversy
**Washington D.C.** – Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States today, immediately issuing nearly 1,600 pardons related to the January 6th Capitol riot and sparking widespread protests across the country. His inauguration was met with a mix of celebration by his supporters and demonstrations by opponents.
In a fiery inaugural address, Trump declared the beginning of a “golden age for America,” promising to be a peacemaker and unifier. However, his actions directly following the ceremony contradicted this claim. He signed a wave of executive orders, including the mass pardons, which prompted outrage from critics who called the move an insult to the justice system and law enforcement. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi denounced the pardons as a “shameful betrayal” of Capitol Police officers. Even Trump’s Vice President, JD Vance, had previously suggested that some of the most violent rioters might not receive clemency.
Further controversy arose from Trump’s comments regarding trade. During a press conference following the signing of executive orders, he threatened to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada, citing concerns about illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking. This announcement caused a temporary dip in Asian stock markets. Canada’s Foreign Minister expressed caution but vowed to defend Canadian interests. While Trump later suggested a possible reprieve until February 1st, the threat of retaliatory tariffs remains. Trump also expressed his belief that the US had paid unfairly high dues to the World Health Organization and he initiated the process of withdrawing from the international body.
In addition to the pardons, Trump rescinded 78 executive orders from the Biden administration. Among these was an order authorizing sanctions against individuals involved in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
The day also featured three inaugural balls, attended by Trump, Vice President Vance, and their wives. While the events proceeded with musical performances and celebrations, the underlying political tension was palpable, evident both in the protests and in the president’s controversial actions. The protests, while significant, were smaller in scale than those that followed Trump’s first inauguration. One prominent Women’s March organizer announced she would not be participating this year. Melania Trump’s choice of inaugural gown also attracted considerable media attention.
First Piper 