On the eve of his inauguration for a second term, Donald Trump addressed a fervent crowd at the Capital One Arena, reaffirming his campaign promises and previewing his ambitious plans for the nation. The “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” was packed with supporters who gathered to hear the president-elect pledge immediate and significant action, particularly on immigration and border security.
Trump declared his intention to halt illegal immigration on his first day in office, emphasizing that his administration would launch what he described as the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. Despite the anticipated logistical and financial challenges, his supporters enthusiastically applauded the promise.
“By the time the sun sets tomorrow, the invasion of our country will have come to a halt,” Trump vowed. He also pledged to classify drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations” and reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy for asylum seekers.
The rally was reminiscent of Trump’s campaign speeches, blending boasts, bold promises, and sharp critiques of his predecessor. He criticized the Biden administration’s policies as “radical and foolish” and vowed to repeal over 200 executive actions within hours of taking office.
Among other significant pledges, Trump committed to releasing classified documents related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr., while also announcing plans to construct a missile defense shield and overhaul military policies via removal of “radical woke ideologies.”
Trump’s inaugural events have drawn significant attention, with supporters lining the streets of Washington despite freezing temperatures, eager to witness history.
While Trump celebrated his return to power, his administration’s policies have sparked concern. Immigrant advocates worry about the impact of mass deportations on families, while critics of his proposed executive orders question their feasibility and cost.
TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew and tech magnate Elon Musk also attended the rally, a move clearly tied to Trump’s announcement of a U.S. joint venture to save the social media platform.
Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president at noon on January 20, with inaugural festivities moved indoors due to severe weather. 25,000 law enforcement personnel have deployed across the capital as part of heightened security measures.