Trump’s Historic Inauguration: A Bold Declaration on Gender and Unique Vocabulary Choices

On a momentous day that marked the return of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States, history was made not only through his policies but also through his distinctive use of language. Sworn in for a second term, Trump wasted no time in setting the tone for his administration, declaring, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders — male and female.” This statement marked a significant moment in inaugural addresses, as it was the first time gender was mentioned in such a context.
Trump’s address resonated with themes of American identity and destiny. He proclaimed, “The golden age of America begins right now,” echoing sentiments of optimism and ambition reminiscent of past American narratives. The ceremony, held in the Capitol Rotunda—an indoor venue for the first time since Ronald Reagan’s swearing-in in 1985 due to frigid temperatures—set a dramatic stage for Trump’s return.
What stood out in this inauguration were not just the policies but also the vocabulary choices that Trump employed. Words like “Manifest Destiny,” “National Emergency,” “Colorblind,” “Sanctuary,” “Horrible,” “Suburban,” “Betrayal,” and “Weaponization” were used for the first time in an inaugural address, signaling a shift in political rhetoric that could shape the discourse for years to come.
These terms reflect a blend of historical references and contemporary issues, indicating a strategy to connect with various segments of the American populace. For instance, “Manifest Destiny” evokes a sense of American exceptionalism and expansionism, while “National Emergency” suggests a call to action on pressing issues facing the nation. Meanwhile, terms like “Colorblind” and “Suburban” hint at ongoing discussions about race and urban policy that are particularly relevant today.
As Trump embarks on his second term, it will be interesting to see how these declarations and vocabulary choices influence his administration’s policies and the national conversation. The inauguration not only marked a new chapter for Trump but also set the stage for a potentially transformative period in American politics.