POLITICS

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris Make History as They Are Sworn Into Office During 2021 Inauguration

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Joseph R. Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States of America during the inauguration that took place at the U.S. Capitol.

Today marks a new chapter for American history and was a momentous day for democracy. Shoulder to shoulder with President Biden is his running mate and first-ever woman and person of color Vice President, Kamala Harris. President Biden’s mission is to be a leader for all Americans and unite the country. Despite one’s political views, President Biden asks that every American joins him in his cause.

The previous president, Donald Trump, ignored the custom of peaceful transfer of power and didn’t attend his successor’s inauguration ceremony. He did, however, deliver his farewell address at Joint Base Andrews and wished the incoming administration good luck in the coming four years.

“We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, rural versus urban, conservative versus liberal”, President Biden said. “We can do this – if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts.”

President Biden emphasized the unity of Americans throughout his speech and acknowledges that at the moment our country is deeply divided. He mentions that we are in the process of recovering from a broken economy and the crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to COVID-19 the rest of the day gives President Biden a chance to work and sign some execute orders in the White House, instead of celebrating like usual. He is also swearing in his selected staff.

However, many artists came together to commemorate the moment. Lady Gaga sang the National Anthem. Meanwhile, Tom Hanks hosted a primetime TV special that featured artists like Justin Timberlake, Demi Lovato, Jon Bon Jovi, and Ant Clemons, John Legend, Foo Fighters, and Katy Perry.

During the virtual Parade Across America, the New Radicals played “You Get What You Give.” DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic series featured Andra Day singing ‘Rise Up,’ Earth, Wind & Fire, Nile Rodgers, Kathy Sledge, The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, The Washington Chorus, and The Triumph Baptist Church Choir of Philadelphia. The other performances for the parade were given by Nathan Apodaca, Ethan Bensdorf and Jason Zgonc, and Mama Mikki Stevens.

It is inspiring to see the country coming together safely to celebrate this momentous day. Congratulations to our new President and Vice President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.