Trump’s Second Inauguration: A Year in Review

There was no debate about record crowd sizes this time. With the temperature plunging to 27°F (-3°C) and a wind chill making it feel even colder, Donald Trump’s second inauguration was held in the rotunda at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on January 20, 2025. A mix of the political elite gathered, including former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and outgoing president Joe Biden. Tech giants like Jeff Bezos, Tim Cook, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg were also in attendance. At precisely 12:10 PM, they listened intently as Trump began a half-hour-long inaugural address.

In his speech, Trump painted a bleak picture of America, highlighting a crisis of trust in the government and asserting that the nation was struggling on multiple fronts, both domestically and internationally. He claimed divine protection after escaping an assassination attempt, stating, “I was saved by God to make America great again.” His address was packed with pledges aimed at reshaping various aspects of American life, from justice to foreign policy. Here’s a look back at ten key promises made during that address and what unfolded in the year following.

1. Justice

“During every single day of the Trump administration, I will, very simply, put America first,” Trump declared. This commitment included rebalancing the scales of justice and ending what he referred to as the “vicious weaponization” of law enforcement against political opponents. Following his inauguration, crime rates in major categories reportedly declined, with a 20% drop in murders compared to the previous year.

His choice for attorney general faced some resistance, but loyalist Pam Bondi took the position, aggressively enforcing Trump’s agenda. The president’s directive led to the dismissal of 17 independent inspectors general under legal objections, prompting concerns about the politicization of the justice system. Political analysts noted that despite the controversies, many of Trump’s supporters viewed him as a protector of safety and justice.

2. Voters of Color

In a heartfelt message to Black and Hispanic communities, Trump expressed gratitude for their electoral support. He noted record numbers of votes from these groups but faced backlash over policies that critics claimed negatively impacted their communities. The Trump administration moved to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within the government, a decision that led to detractors arguing that it stifled progress in racial equality.

Despite telling these communities he would not forget their support, many observers noted a stark lack of new initiatives benefiting them—leading to criticism about the government’s lack of diversity, particularly in his cabinet appointments.

3. Immigration

Trump’s hardline stance on immigration was another cornerstone of his address. “First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border,” he proclaimed, promising to halt illegal entries and deport millions of undocumented immigrants. His administration quickly enacted several measures, including reinstituting the Remain in Mexico policy and deploying troops to the border.

These actions led to significant deportations and a notable drop in border encounters. However, they also sparked fierce debates over the ethics of enforcement tactics and allegations of excessive force used against certain individuals. Tensions flared in cities with local protests against ICE actions after incidents that resulted in casualties among civilians.

4. The Economy

Addressing the economic landscape, Trump stated, “Next, I will direct all members of my cabinet to marshal the vast powers at their disposal to defeat record inflation.” His claims about a strong economy conflicted with persistent concerns among citizens about rising living costs. Initial inflation rates showed some improvement, but by the end of 2025, many Americans expressed dissatisfaction with how inflation was being managed.

Polls indicated a drop in public approval of Trump’s economic handling, revealing a gap between his optimistic proclamations and the practical realities faced by many households.

5. Energy Policy

Trump characterized energy as vital for economic recovery, stating, “We will drill, baby, drill.” His administration launched an aggressive energy dominance agenda, resulting in record production levels of oil and natural gas. On his first day in office, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, an unprecedented move that drew sharp criticism from environmentalists.

The administration’s focus on fossil fuel production underscored a commitment to maximizing U.S. energy resources while igniting various debates on climate policies and environmental implications.

6. Tariffs

Trump highlighted a radical overhaul of the trade system, envisioning it as a means to enrich American workers. He established a new entity to collect tariffs and pay taxes on foreign imports. On April 2, 2025, dubbed “Liberation Day,” he imposed additional tariffs on imports from nearly 90 countries.

The tariffs sparked legal challenges as several states and businesses questioned their constitutionality. While early economic impacts were mixed, uncertainties loomed over longer-term consequences for U.S. businesses and consumers.

7. The Department of Government Efficiency (Doge)

A notable and unconventional initiative was the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency, creatively led by Elon Musk. Promised as a cost-cutting measure, its actual performance faced scrutiny, with critics complaining about chaotic management and widespread disruptions to essential services.

Disappointingly for proponents, the initiative was disbanded a mere eight months after its launch, raising questions about the effectiveness of such radical reforms.

8. Free Speech Initiatives

Trump pledged to halt any federal censorship efforts, stating his commitment to restoring free expression. However, his administration took controversial actions against law firms representing perceived adversaries and launched lawsuits against multiple media outlets that he believed were biased against him.

Despite professing the values of free speech, critics alleged that his administration paradoxically sought to stifle dissenting opinions, leading to public outcry about the state of media independence.

9. DEI and Transgender Policies

Trump promised to dismantle government policies focused on race and gender, declaring a firm stance on there being only two genders. His administration took decisive actions against DEI programs in educational institutions, removing gender-neutral options from official documentation and seeking to eliminate gender-affirming care for minors.

These actions intensified debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and drew criticism from numerous advocacy groups who viewed them as regressive and harmful.

10. Foreign Policy

In a striking contradiction to his earlier rhetoric about avoiding military intervention, Trump’s first year in office witnessed several military strikes across various nations, including Iraq, Somalia, and Venezuela. He portrayed himself as a peacemaker, yet these aggressive actions suggested a more interventionist approach than promised.

Critics pointed out the paradox of his foreign policy, arguing that his actions often fostered rather than mitigated international tensions, while some allies perceived a decline in the U.S.’s global standing under his leadership.

These ten pivotal areas of Trump’s administration highlighted the tension between his promises and the realities of governance, showcasing the complexities and contradictions of his second term in office. Each promise served as a touchpoint for discussions around his administration’s legacy and the ongoing influence of his policies on American society.

The Rising Influence of To Lam: A Dual Role for Vietnam’s Leadership?

The political landscape in Vietnam is witnessing a significant shift as recent reports suggest that To Lam, the current leader of the Communist Party of Vietnam, is contemplating a dual role as both party chief and the President of the country. This move, if realized, would mirror the consolidation of power seen in other significant political figures globally, notably China’s Xi Jinping.

The Context of the Announcement

In a recent address to the Communist Party’s twice-a-decade congress in Hanoi, Lam emphasized the urgency of comprehensive reforms, expressing a strong commitment to combating corruption and spurring economic growth. He set an ambitious target of maintaining an annual growth rate of over 10% for the remainder of the decade. His declarations underscored the pressing need for administrative overhaul while addressing issues of wastefulness in governance.

A Bold Political Calculus

At 68, To Lam is aware that claiming both the party chief and presidential positions could empower him in unprecedented ways. Analysts speculate that this dual role would grant him the strongest mandate Vietnam has seen since the end of the Vietnam War. Nguyen Khac Giang, a political analyst from Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, suggested that such an arrangement would reconfigure Vietnam’s leadership dynamics fundamentally.

Currently, Lam’s governance has already stirred discussions due to the speed and decisiveness of his reforms. Over the past 17 months, he has streamlined government by dissolving eight ministries and agencies and cutting nearly 150,000 jobs from the state payroll. This rapid consolidation hints at his ambition to centralize authority further, potentially changing the face of Vietnam’s political apparatus.

Addressing National Challenges

In his speech, Lam did not shy away from acknowledging the multifaceted challenges facing Vietnam today. From natural disasters to global economic disruptions, he painted a comprehensive picture of the hurdles ahead. Acknowledging the importance of the private sector as a pillar of the economy, he reiterated the Communist Party’s resolve to eradicate corruption and bolster the infrastructure necessary to meet the pressing demands of climate change and global connectivity.

Economic Goals and Reforms

The congress also set the framework for economic goals leading up to 2030, with clear directives outlined in party documents. A key highlight was the proposed aim for consistent annual economic growth of no less than 10%. This ambitious target reflects a blend of optimism and urgency, considering Vietnam’s strategic position in the global supply chain, especially in light of recent economic disruptions.

Furthermore, Lam’s administration has laid down plans for stringent enforcement of legal guidelines to address the inefficiencies in governance characterized by “much talk, little action.” This approach seeks to restore public trust and effectively utilize national resources, addressing chronic implementation issues that have plagued Vietnam’s bureaucratic landscape.

Future Prospects

Should To Lam successfully seize both top positions, the implications would be profound, marking a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s political history. With centralized power, Lam could push through his reform agenda with greater ease, potentially reshaping Vietnam’s domestic and foreign policies. His administration’s ability to navigate the complexities of governance while addressing the pressing needs of society will be closely watched, both within Vietnam and by the international community.

The upcoming weeks and months will reveal how Lam’s ambitions unfold during this critical juncture in Vietnam’s political epoch, potentially ushering in a new era of governance marked by both challenges and opportunities.

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day Amid Contemporary Struggles

A Day of Commemoration

On Monday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was observed across the United States with parades, rallies, and services, paying tribute to the legacy of the revered civil rights leader. In many locations, participants gathered not just to honor King’s monumental contributions but also to reflect on the ongoing challenges in the fight for racial and social equality. This year’s celebrations took on a tone of urgency, signaling that the ideals for which King fought remain a work in progress.

Voices of Unity and Resistance

At a rally in Harlem, Rev. Al Sharpton highlighted a recent tragedy, calling attention to the death of Renee Good, a mother killed by an immigration officer in Minneapolis. His poignant questions resonated with many present: “If she cursed them out, does that give them the right to shoot her?” Sharpton’s address centered on the notion that King would have opposed the escalating tensions that communities currently face. “We need to make a pledge on King Day that we’re going to fight and make what should happen happen to preserve the dream of Dr. King,” he urged, emphasizing the necessity of unity in the face of adversity.

Economic Inequality as a Contemporary Issue

The newly-installed New York City Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, took the opportunity at the Brooklyn Academy of Music to frame inequality as an economic issue. In his speech, he illustrated the stark contrast in the lives of New Yorkers: “Some sleep in penthouses; others sleep on the sidewalk below.” Mamdani called for a reevaluation of civil rights as not merely a set of entitlements but as rights that individuals can actively exercise.

Marching in the Spirit of King

In Washington, D.C., hundreds marched along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue to honor the civil rights leader. Veteran broadcaster Sam Ford, a member of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Committee, encapsulated the essence of ongoing activism: “The struggle continues.” This sentiment was echoed throughout various events, as people recognized that King’s work is not yet complete.

Rising Tensions and Calls for Action

Wisdom Cole, the NAACP’s senior national director of advocacy, voiced concerns over heightened fears among racially diverse and immigrant communities during MLK Day observances. He pointed to “increased police and state violence” as issues that demand urgent attention, echoing sentiments from organizations like The Movement for Black Lives that planned events in several cities under the banner “Reclaim MLK Day of Action.”

Educational Institutions and Cancellations

Although many community celebrations flourished, some traditional MLK Day events were unexpectedly canceled. At Indiana University in Indianapolis, a planned dinner was scrapped, with students suggesting potential “broader political pressures” at work behind the decision. In Westbrook, Maine, a church also had to cancel its MLK Day service due to “unforeseen circumstances,” a reflection of chilling impacts from ICE presence in the area.

A Legacy Under Threat?

This year marked a significant moment, occurring precisely one year since Donald Trump’s inauguration for a second term, amid an administration perceived by many as opposed to diversity and equity initiatives. The shifting priorities of the justice department’s civil rights division raised alarms, as it moved away from championing protections for minority groups.

Trump’s controversial remarks regarding affirmative action and his administration’s aggressive anti-immigration operations contributed to an atmosphere where civil rights seem increasingly vulnerable. Maya Wiley, president of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, stressed that King’s calls for justice in healthcare access, housing, and employment remain crucial in today’s context.

Finding Community in the Struggle

Across the nation, churches and community centers served as gathering points for reflection and unity, including the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Dr. King once preached. Senator Raphael Warnock, who serves as the church’s senior pastor, emphasized the necessity of coming together against injustice. He reminded attendees of the mission to honor Dr. King’s legacy, urging against internal divisions fostered by political rhetoric.

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day gatherings unfolded, they transformed into a platform for community solidarity and active resistance against forces perceived as antithetical to King’s vision for a just society. These actions underline a resilience that is both a testament to King’s enduring legacy and a necessary stance in a time of renewed struggle for civil rights.