On the eve of his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump pledged a sweeping array of executive actions as he prepares to retake the White House. Addressing a lively “Victory Rally” crowd in Washington, D.C., Trump promised to act with “historic speed and strength” immediately after his swearing-in ceremony on Monday.
Trump revealed plans to sign over 200 executive actions within hours of assuming office, including orders targeting immigration, environmental regulations, and diversity programs. He also committed to creating a new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and advancing artificial intelligence initiatives. Additionally, Trump promised to release records related to the 1963 assassination of John F. Kennedy, direct the military to build an Iron Dome missile defense shield, and eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the military.
The president-elect assured his supporters, “Every radical and foolish executive order of the Biden administration will be repealed within hours,” adding, “You’re going to have a lot of fun watching television tomorrow.”
One of Trump’s first priorities will be immigration, with a focus on mass deportation of undocumented immigrants—a cornerstone of his campaign. However, experts warn that such efforts could face legal, logistical, and financial challenges, with potential costs running into the tens or hundreds of billions of dollars. Trump also vowed to issue pardons for those convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots, referring to them as “hostages.”
The rally, held at the Capital One Arena, featured performances by Kid Rock and speeches from prominent figures, including Megyn Kelly, Jon Voight, and Elon Musk. Musk is set to co-lead DOGE alongside entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who previously ran for the Republican presidential nomination.
Family members, including sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, joined Trump on stage alongside a jubilant crowd that braved frigid temperatures to attend the event. Due to severe weather, Monday’s inauguration ceremony will be held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda, marking the first such relocation in 40 years. Outdoor celebrations along the National Mall were scaled back, but supporters have been invited to watch the event at the Capital One Arena, where a modified parade will also take place.
Franklin Graham, son of famed evangelist Billy Graham, will deliver the invocation during the inauguration ceremony. Speaking on Sunday, Graham expressed confidence in Trump’s renewed leadership, saying, “I think President Trump is a much different man than he was in 2017… and he’s going to be a much better president for all these hardships he’s gone through.”
Trump’s inaugural speech is expected to emphasize themes of unity, strength, and fairness, signaling his vision for the next four years. As he prepares to take office, Trump’s aggressive plans for executive action and his pledges to undo policies of the previous administration are poised to set the tone for a transformative presidency.
