Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, 2025, marking the beginning of his second term. In his inaugural address, which emphasized a return to the “golden age” of America, Trump positioned himself as a unifying figure, pledging to restore national pride and prosperity.

Echoing themes from his first inauguration eight years prior, Trump stated, “From this moment on, America’s decline is over. Our golden age has just begun.” He expressed confidence in leading the country towards a brighter future, asserting that the “tide of change” is taking hold across the nation. The president vowed to prioritize the safety and well-being of American citizens, stating, “During every single day of the Trump administration, I will, very simply, put America first.”

Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border and outlined plans to halt illegal entry, referring to illegal immigrants as "criminal aliens." He emphasized his commitment to reinstating policies such as the “Remain in Mexico” policy and the end of “catch and release,” which he claimed have compromised the safety and security of the nation. “Our sovereignty will be reclaimed,” he promised, reinforcing his administration's focus on stringent border control and immigration enforcement.

The president also highlighted the need to address the current government’s failures to serve its citizens. He criticized the "radical and corrupt establishment" for extracting power and wealth from people while neglecting fundamental services during emergencies. During his address, he referenced ongoing struggles faced by citizens in North Carolina and Los Angeles, stating, “Our country can no longer deliver basic services in times of emergency.”

Another focal point of his speech involved economic revitalization. Trump signaled a plan to combat record inflation and restore America’s energy independence. He proclaimed, “We will drill, baby, drill,” advocating for renewed energy production that he believes will reinvigorate the American manufacturing sector and restore wealth. He announced intentions to rectify previous policies, including the Green New Deal, asserting that his administration would revoke mandates affecting the auto industry, thus allowing consumers to choose their vehicles.

Bilateral relations and national restoration were key themes of Trump's vision. He spoke of creating a “society that is colorblind and merit-based,” reaffirming his administration's commitment to free expression while denouncing government censorship. He also articulated his goal of reestablishing law and order, reflecting on a stronger military focus free from social experimentation, claiming, “Our armed forces will be free to focus on their sole mission – defeating America’s enemies.”

Trump's address resonated with themes of unity, as he gratefully acknowledged the support of diverse American communities, thanking them for their trust and love during his campaign. He said, “National unity is now returning to America and confidence and pride is soaring like never before.” He referenced Martin Luther King Jr. Day, pledging to honor the civil rights leader's legacy by striving toward making his dream a reality.

In a striking declaration, Trump noted, “The American Dream will soon be back and thriving like never before.” He called for a collaborative effort to build the nation’s future and emphasized the ambition ingrained in the American spirit, stating that “if we work together, there is nothing we cannot do and no dream we cannot achieve.”

Through his address, Trump signaled his unwavering belief in America's trajectory, positing that the time has come for Americans to once again act with “courage, vigor, and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization.” As the speech concluded, he emphasized, “From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation.” The full transcript of Trump's inauguration speech can be accessed through credible sources such as SCMP and Al Jazeera.