Josh Glancy, News Review Editor at The Sunday Times and former Washington correspondent, joins Louise Callaghan, the newspaper's US correspondent, to dissect the nuances of Donald Trump's inauguration as the wealthiest in U.S. history. They unveil the significant financial backing from tech giants and contrast this event with Trump's first inauguration. Insights on anticipated executive actions, particularly regarding pardons, and the evolving perceptions of Trump’s legacy within the corporate landscape highlight this captivating discussion.
The upcoming inauguration marks a historic financial milestone, raising over $150 million, showcasing Trump's influence among elite donors.
Trump's presidency indicates a cultural shift where his supporters feel liberated to express controversial beliefs, challenging previous norms.
Deep dives
The Historic Inauguration of Trump
The upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump is set to be a significant event in American history, marking the richest inauguration ever held. With more than $150 million raised for this event, the financial backing is considerably higher than previous inaugurations, which saw funds in the range of $20 to $50 million. This level of fundraising showcases not only Trump's popularity among large donors but also his ability to attract the wealthiest figures in America, such as tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos, who are throwing support at his inaugural fund. The overall atmosphere surrounding this inauguration is starkly different from Trump's first, with many powerful elites now openly aligning themselves with him.
Cultural and Political Shifts
The mood in the United States appears to have shifted dramatically, as many of Trump's supporters feel emboldened to express their sentiments and beliefs after years of restraint. Trump's presidency is perceived as a validation for these supporters, breaking down barriers against what they view as oppressive norms imposed by elites. This cultural transformation is likened to Trump's function as a battering ram against the established liberal consensus, indicating a potential for greater acceptance of controversial ideas and actions that may have been previously suppressed. The strong backing from affluent sectors, including the tech industry, suggests a newfound legitimacy for Trump's style of governance among those who once distanced themselves from him.
Executive Actions and Promises Ahead
In his first moments in office, Trump has pledged to issue a series of sweeping executive actions, aiming to fulfill campaign promises such as pardoning January 6th rioters and initiating mass deportations. He has prepared a list of over 100 potential executive orders that signal intent to tackle issues like immigration and regulatory reforms right away. However, there’s skepticism about whether such ambitious plans can be effectively implemented without causing significant backlash or logistical challenges. Experts note that previous key initiatives, like the implementation of tariffs, may encounter roadblocks that remind supporters of the chaotic early weeks of his first term.
Legal and Investigative Implications
Trump's presidency faces the unique situation of being led by a convicted felon, which is unprecedented in American history, raising questions about the implications for governance and law. The quiet response to recent legal reports, including those concerning the January 6th incident, reflects a broader cultural acceptance of Trump’s position, despite ongoing investigations and legal challenges. This muted reaction indicates that Trump's supporters may be more focused on his leadership than his legal issues, suggesting a significant shift in political dynamics. Furthermore, the new administration may retaliate against perceived enemies within the political and media landscapes, launching investigations against those they consider adversaries.
At 12pm ET today, Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. To mark this historic occasion, we’ve gathered together two of our US experts from either side of the Atlantic – one who attended Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, and one who will be attending this one. What’s so different this time around?
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Guests:
Josh Glancy, News Review Editor, The Sunday Times.
Louise Callaghan, US Correspondent, The Sunday Times.