On Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, Donald Trump will step onto the inaugural platform on the West Front of the United States Capitol, marking his return as the 47th president of the United States. This event will be his second inauguration, a rare occurrence in American political history, following in the footsteps of Grover Cleveland, who served non-consecutive terms in the 19th century. The inauguration represents not just a ceremonial event but a significant moment reflecting the country’s democratic processes, political divisions, and the public’s will expressed through a contentious election cycle.
Trump has made bold statements leading up to his inauguration. He has suggested Canada could become the 51st state of the United States, a proposal met with mockery and concern from Canadian officials. “Canada and the U.S., that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line,” Trump said. Additionally, he has proposed imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico, arguing these measures are necessary to address trade imbalances and control migration. Trump’s rhetoric includes threats of economic coercion, with promises of 25% tariffs unless both nations curb the flow of migrants and drugs into the U.S. He has also reignited discussions about retaking control of the Panama Canal, criticizing the Carter administration for ceding it to Panama and suggesting the U.S. reclaim it due to its strategic importance. Trump has called the canal “vital to our country” and accused China of operating it despite Panamanian governance and international treaties.
Regarding international alliances, Trump has demanded increased defense spending from NATO allies, stating that members should contribute 5% of their GDP to defense, significantly higher than the current 2% target. His remarks emphasize a more “muscular” U.S. role in global security, potentially straining relationships with allies who have already increased their contributions. Additionally, Trump has proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” asserting that the name has a “beautiful ring to it.” This proposal, linked to his immigration concerns and an effort to assert American identity, has stirred debate on both sides of the border. Finally, Trump has revisited the idea of purchasing Greenland from Denmark, a topic he first raised during his initial term. Despite Denmark’s firm stance that Greenland is “not for sale,” Trump insists on its importance for national security. “We need Greenland for economic security,” he said. His son, Donald Trump Jr., has even visited Greenland, signaling an intent to revive this contentious proposal.
The Madisonian interviewed students at Madison Consolidated High School (MCHS) to gauge the political climate and reactions to Trump’s recent statements. Responding to the Canada remark, Savannah Petro, a junior, said, “Canada is very left; it would never happen.” She added, “Maybe he wants to assert dominance in that region,” when asked about Trump’s desire to rename the Gulf of Mexico. Another junior, Eliza Burnette, said, “If we do most of the work there, then it makes sense.”
When asked how they think this inauguration will be remembered in history, Petro replied, “I think it is going to be really important because the division between Americans over him being the president has been really big.” Burnette added, “We were going in a bad direction, and Trump is hopefully going to redirect us.” Senior Credence Helton shared his perspective, stating, “I think it will be remembered as the most exaggerated election in history. I think it will be a lot better than anyone thinks it will be.” Kolten Lock, another junior, offered a different view. “I believe this inauguration is going to be very controversial and kind of remake history due to the fact that our country was so divided during it [the 2024 election] and that there are so many points for either side. It became like pre-Civil War simply because the viewpoints and opinions are (sic) so strong on either side. Pro-Democrats are really for human rights and such, while pro-Republicans have their own ideas about how they should make the country more secure,” he said.
Public response to Trump’s re-election has been deeply polarized. His victory rally, scheduled for Jan. 19 at Capital One Arena, signals strong support from his base, with an anticipated large gathering. However, this enthusiasm is met with equal fervor from the opposition, planning significant counter-protests, including the “People’s March,” which echoes the massive 2017 Women’s March. This underlines the sharp divisions within American society. Several Democratic lawmakers have announced their intention to boycott the inauguration. This includes figures like Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), who plans to attend despite boycotting Trump’s first inauguration, stating, “This time around, I feel like I need to stand there to show that he is not pushing me out of my role.” This shift highlights the complex emotions of defiance and duty felt by some Democrats amidst Trump’s return.
Trending discussions on X (formerly Twitter) reveal a Democratic Party in a state of alarm, with initiatives like the DNC’s ‘FactPostNews’ aimed at countering misinformation from the Trump camp. A post on the account at 11:27 a.m., Jan. 13, 2025, stated, “This is the official rapid response page of the Democratic Party, holding Trump and MAGA extremists accountable. Welcome to FactPost.” As Trump prepares to retake office, the Democratic Party’s actions and public statements reflect political opposition and profound concern about the country’s direction under Trump’s renewed leadership.
The nation watches with anticipation and apprehension as Trump prepares to retake office. His first term was marked by policy shifts, legal controversies, and unprecedented public discourse, setting the stage for what many expect to be a continuation of his combative leadership style. His agenda, as outlined by his campaign and early policy hints, includes substantial changes in immigration, trade, and possibly the legal landscape, with promises of mass deportations and cryptocurrency-friendly policies. With the eyes of the world on the U.S. Capitol, this event will set the tone for Trump’s second term and how the nation will attempt to reconcile its divisions or further entrench them.
