Trump Pledges to End 'American Decline' at Pre-Inauguration Rally

 

Trump Pledges to End 'American Decline' at Pre-Inauguration Rally

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BSS | 20 Jan 2025, 08:42 (Updated: 10:35)

WASHINGTON, Jan 20, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – On the eve of his inauguration, Donald Trump vowed to end what he described as "American decline," outlining a rapid series of actions to restore national strength during a lively rally in Washington. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd, the 78-year-old Republican promised bold measures against woke ideology and illegal immigration.

"Tomorrow at noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand-new era of strength and prosperity," Trump declared to a packed arena. He pledged to tackle the nation’s challenges "with historic speed" from his first day in office.

Joining him on stage was billionaire Elon Musk, who is set to lead a sweeping cost-reduction initiative in Trump's administration. Musk committed to making America "strong for centuries." The rally ended on a lighter note with Trump dancing to the Village People’s iconic hit "Y.M.C.A.", the anthem of his campaign.

Immigration and Executive Orders

Trump’s address focused heavily on immigration, reiterating his plan to halt the "invasion of our borders." He announced plans to initiate raids targeting undocumented migrants within days of taking office.

The former president also promised a slew of executive orders, including banning critical race theory and transgender athletes in women’s sports, as well as prohibiting what he termed "transgender insanity" in schools.

Additionally, Trump vowed to declassify files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.

Symbolic Ceremonies and Public Response

Ahead of the rally, Trump visited Arlington National Cemetery, where he laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, accompanied by Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. This solemn moment contrasted with the lively rally atmosphere.

Despite snowy conditions, large crowds gathered to witness what many described as a historic event. Alan McNeely, a 21-year-old student, said, "I wanted to see history unfold before my eyes."

Inauguration Ceremony Adjustments

Due to freezing weather forecasts, Trump's inauguration, originally planned for the Capitol steps, will now take place inside the Capitol Rotunda. This marks the first indoor ceremony since Ronald Reagan's inauguration 40 years ago.

Incoming press secretary Karoline Leavitt hinted at the themes of Trump’s inaugural address, stating he would speak of "entering a Golden Age of America."

Global Affairs and Transition of Power

Outgoing President Joe Biden marked his final day in office by observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day in South Carolina. In his farewell remarks, he urged Americans to "keep the faith in a better day to come" and promised to remain active in public life.

Trump has already engaged in international matters ahead of his official swearing-in. He played a role in restoring TikTok operations in the U.S. after a temporary ban, pledging to broker a deal to transfer ownership of its U.S. subsidiary away from Chinese control.

Additionally, Trump’s team contributed to ongoing Middle East negotiations. On Sunday, three Israeli hostages were released under a Gaza truce negotiated jointly with the outgoing administration.

As Trump prepares to take the oath of office, his supporters eagerly anticipate a swift and decisive start to his presidency, aiming to reshape America’s trajectory on the global and domestic fronts.