Donald Trump is set to officially take the oath of office at 11:47 EST (16:47 GMT) on Monday, a time chosen to mark his position as the 47th President of the United States.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, Trump will deliver his inaugural address at 11:53 EST (16:53 GMT), outlining his vision for the country as he begins his second term.
Earlier in the day, Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff welcomed Vice President-elect JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, to the White House. The greeting followed a service attended by key figures at St. John’s Episcopal Church, continuing the day’s ceremonial events.
The inauguration highlights one of the most remarkable political comebacks in U.S. history, as Trump returns to the presidency after a four-year hiatus.
US President-elect Donald Trump and incoming First Lady Melania Trump attended a church service near the White House ahead of Monday's inauguration ceremony.
Trump, wearing a coat and red tie, and his wife, in a dark coat and a black hat with white band, drove the short distance to St John's Episcopal Church from the traditional presidential guest residence, Blair House.
Trump was criticized by religious leaders in 2020 after posing for a photo, Bible in hand, in front of the same church just minutes after security forces forcefully ejected Black Lives Matter protesters from the area.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is carrying a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to U.S. President Donald Trump, as he attends Trump’s inauguration as a special envoy. Jaishankar is representing India at the swearing-in ceremony of Trump, who is set to take office as the 47th President of the United States.
Jaishankar’s presence at the event is in line with India’s diplomatic practice of sending special envoys to attend the inauguration of heads of state and government. This follows a tradition established by previous Indian officials attending major global inaugurations.
Previous Precedents:
Jaishankar’s participation reinforces India's diplomatic engagement with the U.S. and highlights the ongoing cooperation between the two nations at the highest levels.
President-elect Donald Trump has selected opera tenor Christopher Macchio to perform the national anthem during his inauguration on Monday. Country singer Carrie Underwood will also perform “America the Beautiful” at the event, continuing a long-standing tradition of music at presidential inaugurations.
A Tradition of Musical Excellence
Throughout U.S. history, inaugural ceremonies have featured performances by renowned singers and musicians:
Trump’s 47th Presidency Inauguration
Macchio’s selection signals Trump’s emphasis on classical performances for the historic event. The ceremony, set to draw significant global attention, will uphold the tradition of blending patriotic music with political transitions.