On this historic day January 20,2021, of what has been a short but tumultuous year, the country watched from their homes, television sets and mobile phones as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were sworn in as the 46th President and Vice President of the United States of America.
Despite the challenges faced with the ongoing coronavirus and recent insurrection of the U.S. Capitol Building, the ceremony, albeit different from previous years with more security measures and social distancing, was not lacking in substance and special appearances by legislative heavy-weights and first families. Amongst the notable bipartisan guests were Former President Barack Obama, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Senator Mike Pence, Senator Mitch McConnell, Former President George W. Bush and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi amongst many others who came to show their support for the Biden administration and honor the peaceful transition of power.
“The will of the people has been heard, and the will of the people has been heeded. We’ve learned again that democracy is precious and democracy is fragile. At this hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed,” Biden said. “This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day in history and hope, of renewal and resolve.”
The hopeful scene at the Capitol steps, underscored by a message of unity and hope interwoven throughout Biden’s inaugural address, was in stark contrast to the exit of Former President Trump who left the White House amidst a meager crowd of supporters before departing for his Palm Beach estate. “We will be back in some form,” said Trump, who has yet to accept the election results, with his last words to the public leaving both parties questioning what’s to come.
As we continue to monitor the shift of power in the weeks and months ahead under the Biden administration, we will continue to report on how these changes will affect our country, our judicial system and our lives.
