Donald Trump did not attend Joe Biden’s inauguration on January 20, 2021. This marked a significant break from the tradition of outgoing presidents attending the inauguration of their successors. Instead, Trump chose to leave the White House early in the morning and flew to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. This decision was in line with his refusal to concede the 2020 election, which he claimed was stolen from him through widespread voter fraud—a claim that has been widely debunked.
The absence of Trump at Biden’s inauguration was a stark contrast to the usual peaceful transfer of power that is a hallmark of American democracy. Typically, the outgoing president and first lady welcome the incoming president and first lady to the White House on the morning of the inauguration. This tradition symbolizes the continuity of government and the peaceful transfer of power. However, on January 20, 2021, this tradition was not observed.
Instead, Trump held a farewell ceremony at Joint Base Andrews before his departure. In his speech, he highlighted his administration’s achievements and promised his supporters that he would “be back in some form.” He then boarded Air Force One for the last time as president and flew to Florida. This departure was marked by a small crowd of supporters who gathered to see him off.
Biden’s inauguration proceeded without incident, with former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton in attendance. The ceremony was held under tight security due to the recent storming of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters on January 6, 2021. Biden’s inaugural address focused on unity and healing, calling for Americans to come together to overcome the challenges facing the nation.
The decision by Trump to skip the inauguration was widely criticized by political analysts and historians. It was seen as a final act of defiance and a refusal to acknowledge the legitimacy of Biden’s victory. Despite this, Biden’s inauguration was a historic event, marking the beginning of his presidency and the end of a tumultuous period in American politics.
For a visual recap of Biden’s inauguration, you can watch this YouTube video.
وجهتك للاخبار الجديدة