The 2025 inauguration of Donald Trump will be a historic moment, marking his return to the presidency for a second term. With a crowd of former presidents, elected officials, and family members gathered at the U.S. Capitol, this event will be a unique occasion in many ways. However, one crucial aspect of the ceremony is the swearing-in process, and this time, there will be some familiar faces playing key roles. Here’s everything you need to know about who will swear in Donald Trump and his vice president-elect JD Vance, and the significance of these ceremonial moments.
Who Will Swear in Donald Trump at the 2025 Inauguration?
When Donald Trump takes the presidential oath of office for the second time on January 20, 2025, he will be sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts. This marks Roberts’ fifth time administering the presidential oath. Although the Constitution does not explicitly dictate who must administer the oath, it has been a longstanding tradition for the Chief Justice to perform this role. The tradition dates back to 1797, when John Adams became the first president to take the oath from the Chief Justice.
What’s the Importance of the Oath of Office?
The presidential oath is a symbol of the peaceful transfer of power and is a significant moment in American democracy. Donald Trump will recite the following words, as outlined in Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
This vow not only acknowledges the gravity of the office but also affirms the president’s commitment to uphold the Constitution and American values. The swearing-in ceremony will mark the official start of Trump’s second term, and the country will be watching as he assumes the mantle of leadership once again.
Why the Ceremony Was Moved Indoors
Originally, the 2025 inauguration was set to take place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, an iconic location where past presidential inaugurations have been held. However, due to extremely cold temperatures expected in Washington D.C., the inauguration will now take place indoors at the Capitol Rotunda. The change in location ensures the safety and comfort of both the attendees and the dignitaries.
While this is a rare move, it’s been done before, especially when weather conditions pose a challenge to outdoor ceremonies. Regardless of the location, the symbolism remains strong – the formal swearing-in process is the heartbeat of the inauguration, signifying the peaceful transfer of power.
Who Will Swear in JD Vance as Vice President?
In a historic moment for the vice presidency, Justice Brett Kavanaugh will swear in JD Vance as the Vice President-elect. This moment is significant for two reasons: first, Justice Kavanaugh was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Trump in 2018, and second, the vice presidential oath has been administered by various officials over the years.
What’s Different About the Vice Presidential Oath?
Unlike the presidential oath, the vice president-elect’s oath is slightly different. The Vice President-elect will recite the following words, which have been in use since 1884 and are the same for senators, House members, and other federal officials:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God.”
The vice presidential oath focuses on supporting and defending the Constitution and ensuring that the vice president takes the office with full commitment and responsibility. This oath is a public declaration of the duties and obligations the Vice President will uphold in service to the nation.
Historical Context of the Inaugural Oaths
While the roles of Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Kavanaugh are set for this historic day, it’s important to recognise that not every president has been sworn in by the Chief Justice. For example:
- In 1923, Calvin Coolidge was sworn in by his father, a notary public, following the death of President Warren Harding.
- In 1963, Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in on Air Force One by a federal judge after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
These moments remind us that the oath of office is flexible in its execution but unwavering in its significance. It’s a solemn event that affirms the leadership of the nation.
Who Swore in Biden and Harris in 2021?
In 2021, during the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the presidential oath to Biden. For the vice presidency, Justice Sonia Sotomayor swore in Kamala Harris. The 2021 inauguration was unique due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited attendance and shifted the ceremonial aspects of the event. Despite these changes, the oath of office remained the central element of the ceremony, symbolising the continuity of democracy during challenging times.
What to Expect on January 20, 2025?
As Donald Trump and JD Vance take the stage on January 20, 2025, the inauguration will be filled with anticipation. With a crowd of former presidents, elected officials, and family members, the event will mark the beginning of a second term for Trump, with Vance alongside him as his vice president.
The swearing-in ceremony remains one of the most iconic moments in American history. It’s a reminder of the democratic process, the peaceful transfer of power, and the responsibilities that come with leading the nation.
Conclusion: The Importance of the Inaugural Oaths
The 2025 inauguration of Donald Trump and JD Vance will be an event full of tradition and historical significance. As the two men take their oaths of office, they will be publicly declaring their commitment to serving the nation and upholding the Constitution. With Chief Justice John Roberts swearing in Trump and Justice Brett Kavanaugh swearing in Vance, the inaugural oaths serve as powerful symbols of leadership, democracy, and continuity in American government.
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
- Donald Trump’s First Inauguration Ceremony
- History of Presidential Oaths of Office
- Inaugural Traditions and Their Importance
- Understanding the Vice Presidential Oath
- Chief Justice John Roberts and His Role in Inaugurations
Photo credit: CBS News
