Trump will act swiftly after the ceremony, with executive orders already prepared for his signature to jumpstart deportations, increase fossil fuel development and reduce civil service protections for government workers, promising that his term will bring about “a brand new day of American strength and prosperity, dignity and pride.”
He plans to try to strike a hopeful tone and call for unity, according to excerpts of his prepared speech provided by a Trump official, who insisted on anonymity to preview the speech.
“I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success," the excerpts say. “A tide of change is sweeping the country.”
Frigid weather is rewriting the pageantry of the day. Trump’s swearing-in was moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda — the first time that has happened in 40 years — and the inaugural parade was replaced by an event at a downtown arena. Throngs of Trump supporters who descended on the city to watch the inaugural ceremony on the West Front of the Capitol from the National Mall will be left to find somewhere else to view the festivities.
“God has a plan,” said Terry Barber, 46, who drove nonstop from near Augusta, Georgia, to reach Washington. “I'm good with it."
Trump's speech excerpts spell out that he plans to sign a series of “historic executive orders.”
“With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense,” they say. “My message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor, and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization.”
