Donald J. Trump officially became 45th President of the United States after being sworn into office at the 2017 inauguration.  The inauguration ceremony began on Thursday with a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a tradition meant to honor the fallen soldiers.  Later that night, Trump’s “Make America, Great Again” celebration was held at the Lincoln Memorial and featured artists Toby Keith and 3 Doors Down.  The transition of power started at 11:47 am, when Chief Justice John Roberts gave the oath of office as Trump swore under two bibles: his childhood one and the traditional Lincoln Bible.

  About 800,000 people attended the inauguration ceremony, along with crowds of anti-Trump protesters. Nonviolent and violent protesters gathered on 12th and K street and attempted to block entrance to the ceremony, resulting in 217 arrests.  When asked about the protests, Kylie Yogi (11) said, “It’s good that people can voice their opinions, but it is also important to keep them nonviolent.  But I know it is hard, especially when there are so many people angry at Trump.” The biggest anticipated protest, however, was yet to come. The Women’s March on Washington drew 500,000 people, and around 5 million people took to the streets in “sister marches” in Los Angeles, New York, and all around the world.  

  Though President Trump criticized the demonstrators for possibly not voting, he tweeted that “Peaceful protests are a hallmark of our democracy. Even if I don’t always agree, I recognize the rights of people to express their views.”  Keep up with the news to stay updated on President Trump’s first days in office.