Trump’s second term began with swift executive actions, including delaying the TikTok ban, reaffirming withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and WHO, eliminating DEI programs, and initiating an “American Iron Dome” missile defense system. He also signed an order stating, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female.”

Joe Biden and Jill Biden welcomed the Trumps to the White House in a traditional transition ceremony. Biden, who withdrew from the race in July and endorsed Kamala Harris, attended Trump’s inauguration, which was moved inside the Capitol Rotunda due to the cold.

Trump issued pardons or commutations for over 1,500 people linked to the January 6 Capitol riot. The Trumps and Bidens posed for photos, and lip reader Jeremy Freeman analyzed their exchange. Biden greeted Trump with, “Welcome home.” Trump replied, “How are you? It’s so cold. I need to do my coat up, I’m freezing.” When Biden admitted he was also freezing, Trump joked, “Shut up, Biden,” adding it was “colder than when we ski.”