By Chase Cowan
The presidential inauguration is a very important day, marking the beginning of new leadership in America. It’s an event that has been on January 20th at noon, since 1937. Before 1937, inauguration day was on March fourth, but it changed because there was too much time in between election day and inauguration day. This allowed the defeated president to stay in office for an uncomfortable time longer than his term.
It all begins with the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies(JCCIC), which plans and carries out the swearing in ceremony. This committee, made up of three senators and three representatives, creates a smooth and memorable event.
As Inauguration Day approaches, the president-elect names a PresidentialInaugural Committee, responsible for fundraising, planning, and coordinating all official events and activities surrounding the inauguration. This committee hosts various events, including the inaugural balls and parade.
On the morning of January 20th (or January 21st, if the 20th falls on a Sunday), the vice-president-elect is sworn in first, taking the same oath of office as senators and representatives. This oath is a promise to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
Next, the president-elect takes the presidential oath of office, administered by the Chief Justice of the United States. This oath is a promise to faithfully execute the Office of President and preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. The president-elect then delivers their inaugural address, outlining their vision for the country’s future.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the new president and vice president participate in a pass in review, a tradition where they review the troops and appreciate the military’s role in protecting the country.
The rest of the day is filled with fun events, including the inaugural parade, which features marching bands, floats, and other performances. The new president and vice president also attend a formal lunch at the U.S. Capitol, hosted by the JCCIC.
As the day ends, the new president and vice president make their way to the White House, where they’ll begin their job as leaders of America. It’s an important day, filled with tradition, ceremony, and celebration. The presidential inauguration is a sign of the peaceful transfer of power between presidents, and shows the difference between America and other countries with leaders desperate to keep their power.
Graphic done by Ryder Navarra
