President Donald Trump and one of his biggest campaign contributors, Elon Musk, have been laying off thousands of federal employees in the name of saving the country’s money. But Trump and Musk do not appear to view campaign and inauguration festivities—despite costs reaching hundreds of millions—as wasteful spending.
According to CNN, Trump’s inaugural committee collected a staggering $239 million for the festivities surrounding his swearing-in this year — with some of the nation’s wealthiest people and biggest companies writing large checks as they sought to ingratiate themselves with the Republican ahead of his return to the White House.
READ: Trump stages a triumphant return to power (January 20, 2025)
What is a Presidential inauguration?
A Presidential inauguration is a significant ceremony that marks the beginning of a new president’s term in office in the United States. It takes place every four years on January 20th, following a presidential election. The highlight of the event is when the president-elect takes the Oath of Office, swearing to uphold the Constitution. This oath is usually administered by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
The inauguration also includes various traditions, such as the inaugural address, where the new president outlines their vision and goals for the country. There is often a parade, musical performances, and formal celebrations, including an inaugural ball.
READ: Donald Trump declares ‘TikTok is back’ ahead of inauguration (January 20, 2025)
The inauguration is more than just a ceremony—it symbolizes the peaceful transfer of power, a key principle of American democracy. It brings together citizens, government officials, and international observers to witness the start of a new chapter in the country’s leadership.
As reported on Sunday by the committee, the total haul swamped the then-record $107 million Trump raised for his first inauguration in 2017 and is almost four times the nearly $62 million collected by his immediate predecessor, Joe Biden, for his pared-down swearing-in during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.