On the day before his inauguration, US President-elect Donald Trump addressed a jubilant crowd, highlighting his electoral triumph and expressing confidence about the nation’s future, despite existing political rifts.
‘A brand-new day’
“Tomorrow, at noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand-new day of American strength and prosperity, dignity and pride,” Trump declared to his supporters, adding, “We not only won a mandate, but we built a new American majority that will lead our country to success for generations to come.”

The Capital One Arena, with its 20,000-plus capacity, was nearly full as Kid Rock performed “All Summer Long”, despite a cold mix of rain and snow falling outside.

‘I will prevent World War 3’
The President-elect also pledged to bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine, halt the chaos in the Middle East, and take measures to prevent the outbreak of World War 3.
“I will end the war in Ukraine, I will stop the chaos in the Middle East and I will prevent World War 3 from happening – and you have no idea how close we are,” he said in his MAGA victory rally.
‘Largest deportation exercise in American history’
Trump also vowed to starting with a crackdown on an “invasion” of immigrants at the border with Mexico.
“Starting tomorrow, I will act with historic speed and strength and fix every single crisis facing our country,” Trump said.
“Before this, nobody could even think of open borders, prisons, mental institutions, men playing in women’s sports, transgenders for everyone… Very soon we will begin the largest deportation exercise in American history,” he added.
Star-studded rally
Lee Greenwood performed his signature song “God Bless the USA”, which had become synonymous with Trump’s re-election campaign.
Actor Jon Voight addressed the gathering, saying, “Our hero. A man who never gave up on the American people, and we the people never gave up on him.”
Stephen Miller, the incoming deputy chief of staff, promised significant changes, emphasising the administration’s commitment to stringent immigration policies.

Trump’s agenda included signing several executive orders, particularly regarding US-Mexico border policies.
His first complete day back in Washington included a private breakfast with Republican senators at Blair House, followed by a photograph with ten Republican female senators and his incoming chief-of-staff, Susie Wiles.

Unlike the Capitol attack in 2021 following Trump’s loss to Biden, authorities anticipated a peaceful transition. Supporters celebrated Trump’s second term and MAGA’s influence within the Republican Party.
Trump supporters toast to second term
Attendees travelled from across the country, dressed formally, including some in fur coats.
Trump supporters gathered at various Washington venues for celebrations. The phrase “MAGA” was frequently heard as both a chant and greeting amongst attendees.

The positive atmosphere contrasted sharply with four years prior, when Trump departed Washington in controversy, avoiding Biden’s inauguration.