So, there it went, the inauguration of Donald Trump—a day that felt particularly significant, especially given the unusual context of a president returning after losing an election. It was a historic moment, and I found myself glued to my screens as the events unfolded.

The first headline that caught my attention was Biden's decision to use his executive clemency power to protect individuals targeted by Trump, who has made no secret of his intentions for "retribution." Some people were thankful for the pardons, while others felt uneasy, worried that accepting them might imply guilt. Just moments before the inauguration, Biden even pardoned much of his family as a precaution.

Then there was the leak about Trump’s speech, which thankfully wouldn’t focus much on tariffs. The mere mention of Canada in such high level speeches is usually an exciting thing, “wow, they mentioned maple syrup!” This go-around we held our breath wondering whether he’d say Canada. Fortunately, we escaped any mention this time around. Apparently, Feb 1st as been slated as his chosen date to begin tormenting Canada. Trump reserved much of his ire today for Panama, threatening to take control of the Panama Canal—a curious and unexpected move.

The choice of venue for the inauguration was striking. Moving the event indoors to the Capitol Rotunda—just four years after it was stormed by Trump supporters—added a layer of irony. This beautiful space was once the backdrop for chaos, and now it was filled with wealthy figures, including tech billionaires, sitting front and centre, while many supporters had to watch from overflow rooms or the Capital One Arena. It really highlighted the disconnect between the political elite and everyday citizens.

As I watched Trump speak, I felt a mix of disbelief and discomfort. His antics—signing decrees and throwing sharpie markers to a cheering crowd—felt more like a show than a serious political event. There was little mention of pressing issues like rising food prices or the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which was disappointing. So much for ending the war on day one.

Having visited the Rotunda myself, I can say it’s an impressive place, but it can also feel a bit gaudy. The large painting of the Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull hung overhead, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin looking askance as everything unfolded, reminding us of long ago U.S. history, and what their painted eyes witnessed 4 years ago. As former presidents like Clinton, Bush Jr., and Obama took their seats, I noticed the contrast between their dignity and Trump’s often outrageous behaviour. It was a grown-up moment, especially since many who have been insulted by Trump chose to attend, showing a level of respect that he often lacks.

Before Trump even began his speech, I started sketching a cartoon, focusing on the past presidents watching the event unfold. It was a reminder that the dignity of the institution might still help keep Trump in check.

This inauguration, held in a space once marred by chaos, serves as a strong symbol of our current political climate. As elites gather amid fears of retribution and with Biden’s pardons reflecting the fragile state of U.S. democracy, it’s crucial to consider the growing influence of wealthy individuals in politics. It’s going to be a long difficult four years.

Enjoy the January 21, 2025 making-of animated editorial cartoon below PLUS a bonus YouTube video I made of Inaugural Speech highlights from history. Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday or Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons.

January 21st 2025 editorial cartoon:

Key Moments from Inaugural Speeches of the Past: youtube.com/shorts/8MHS…