Inauguration of Joe Biden

59th United States presidential inauguration

For his inaugurations as vice president under Barack Obama, see first and second inauguration of Barack Obama.

Presidential inauguration of
Joe Biden

Joe Biden takes the oath of office to become the 46th president of the United States.

Date| January 20, 2021; 4 years ago (2021-01-20)
Location| United States Capitol,
Washington, D.C.
Organized by| Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, Inaugural Committee
Participants| Joe Biden
46th President of the United States
— Assuming office

* * *

John Roberts
Chief Justice of the United States
— Administering oath

* * *

Kamala Harris
49th Vice President of the United States
— Assuming office

* * *

Sonia Sotomayor
Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
— Administering oath

<- 2017

2025 ->

|  |

This article is part of
a series about

Joe Biden

|

* * *

Personal

* Early life and career
* Eponyms
* Family
* Honors
* Presidential library
* Public image
* Age and health concerns
* SNL parodies
* The Onion parody
* Bibliography
* Post-presidency

* * *

U.S. Senator from Delaware

* U.S. Senate career
* Judiciary Committee
* Bork hearings
* Thomas hearings
* 1994 Crime Bill
* Violence Against Women Act
* Foreign Relations Committee
* Elections
* 1972
* 1978
* 1984
* 1990
* 1996
* 2002
* 2008

* * *

47th Vice President of the United States

* Transition
* Tenure
* Obama administration
* Inaugurations
* first
* second
* Economic policy
* Great Recession response
* 2010 Tax Relief Act
* 2011 debt-ceiling crisis
* fiscal cliff
* Foreign policy
* Task forces
* Gun Violence
* Protect Students from Sexual Assault
* "Buy a shotgun"

* * *

Vice presidential campaigns

* 2008
* election
* selection
* convention
* debates
* 2012
* election
* convention
* debates

* * *

46th President of the United States

* Presidency
* timeline
* Transition
* COVID-19 Advisory Board
* Inauguration
* Efforts to impeach
* inquiry

* * *

Tenure

* First 100 days
* Executive actions
* proclamations
* Trips
* foreign
* '21
* '22
* '23
* '24–'25
* Ukraine visit
* Geneva summit
* COVID-19 pandemic
* Afghanistan withdrawal
* Classified documents incident
* 2023 debt-ceiling crisis

* * *

Policies

* COVID-19
* WH Response Team
* Economy
* ARP
* IIJA
* IRA
* Electoral/ethics
* Environment
* Foreign policy
* AUKUS
* Camp David Principles
* IPEF
* War in Ukraine
* War in Israel
* Immigration
* border crisis
* Social issues
* guns
* cannabis
* marriage

* * *

Appointments

* Cabinet
* Ambassadors
* Federal judges
* Jackson
* Supreme Court candidates
* Executive Office
* U.S. attorneys

* * *

Presidential campaigns

* 1988
* primaries
* 2008
* primaries
* 2020
* primaries
* election
* sexual misconduct allegation
* Ukraine conspiracy theory
* convention
* debates
* endorsements
* VP selection
* 2024
* primaries
* debate
* endorsements
* opposition
* withdrawal

* v
* t
* e

January 6 United
States Capitol attack

Timeline • Planning
Background

2020 presidential election
and other causes

* Previous claims of election fraud by President Trump
* in 2012
* in 2016
* Republican reactions
* Michigan State Capitol storming
* 2020–21 presidential election protests
* 2021 Electoral College vote count
* Attempts to overturn the presidential election
* Trump fake electors plot
* Chesebro memos
* Eastman memos
* Jeffrey Clark letter
* Democratic backsliding in the US
* Social media use by Donald Trump
* Trumpism
* QAnon
* Donald Trump and fascism

Related groups and persons

* Ali Alexander
* Ray Epps
* Nick Fuentes
* Rudy Giuliani
* Jericho March
* Alex Jones
* Sedition Caucus
* Enrique Tarrio
* Donald Trump
* Donald Trump Jr.

Participants

Notable people

* Ashli Babbitt
* Joe Biggs
* Richard Barnett
* Jacob "QAnon Shaman" Chansley
* Derrick Evans
* Tim "Baked Alaska" Gionet
* Simone Gold
* Klete Keller
* Ethan Nordean
* Rick Saccone
* Jon Schaffer
* John Earle Sullivan

Organizations

* Boogaloo movement
* Groypers
* Oath Keepers
* Proud Boys
* Three Percenters

Law enforcement response

* Capitol Police
* Harry Dunn
* Aquilino Gonell
* Eugene Goodman
* Brian Sicknick
* Howard Liebengood
* Steven Sund
* Department of Defense
* Michael C. Stenger
* Paul D. Irving
* Christopher C. Miller
* Ryan D. McCarthy
* Walter E. Piatt
* Charles A. Flynn
* Daniel Hokanson
* William J. Walker
* D.C. National Guard
* DC
* Muriel Bowser
* Robert Contee
* Michael Fanone
* Daniel Hodges
* Jeffrey L. Smith
* Virginia
* Ralph Northam

Aftermath

Biden inauguration

* 2021 inauguration week protests
* Security preparations

Investigations and charges

* Justice Department investigation
* Criminal proceedings
* list
* Fischer v. United States
* January 6 commission
* House Select Committee
* public hearings
* Smith special counsel investigation
* federal prosecution of Donald Trump
* Trump's pardon of defendants

Corporate actions

* List of companies that halted political contributions
* Social media suspensions of Donald Trump
* permanent suspension
* Suspensions of other social media accounts
* shutdown of Parler
* Facebook

Reactions

* Domestic
* Antifa culpability conspiracy theory
* International

Impeachment and 2024 presidential election

* Second impeachment of Donald Trump
* trial
* Presidential eligibility of Donald Trump
* Trump v. Anderson

* v
* t
* e

The inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th president of the United States took place on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, on the West Front of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. It was the 59th inauguration and marked the commencement of Joe Biden's term as president and Kamala Harris' term as vice president. Biden took the presidential oath of office, before which Harris took the vice presidential oath of office.

The inauguration took place amidst extraordinary political, public health, economic, and national security crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic; outgoing President Donald Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 United States presidential election, which provoked an attack on the United States Capitol on January 6; Trump's second impeachment; and a threat of widespread civil unrest, which stimulated a nationwide law enforcement response. Festivities were sharply curtailed by efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate the potential for violence near the Capitol.[1][2] The live audience was limited; members of the Congress attended with one guest of their choosing, resembling a State of the Union address.[3] Public health measures such as mandatory face coverings, testing, temperature checks, and social distancing were used to protect participants in the ceremony.[4]

"America United" and "Our Determined Democracy: Forging a More Perfect Union"—a reference to the Preamble to the United States Constitution—served as the inaugural themes.[5]

At 78 years, 61 days of age, Biden became the oldest person to assume the presidency.[6] However, four years later, in 2025, Donald Trump was re-inaugurated at 78 years, 220 days of age, surpassing Biden's record.[7]

## Context

[edit]

The inauguration marked the formal culmination of the Joe Biden's presidential transition that began with his election on November 3, 2020, him becoming the president-elect.[8] Biden and his running mate Kamala Harris were formally elected by the Electoral College on December 14, 2020.[9] The victory was certified by an electoral vote tally by a joint session of Congress on January 6, 2021. In accordance with Article I, Section 6 of the United States Constitution, Harris resigned her seat in the U.S. Senate effective noon on January 18, 2021.[10] Trump repeatedly disputed the legitimacy of the election, but committed to an orderly transition of power exactly two months after losing.[11]

Biden, at age 78 years and 61 days upon taking office, became the oldest sitting U.S. president, older than Ronald Reagan, who left office at 77 years and 349 days. Upon his inauguration, he also became the first president from Delaware, the second Catholic, after John F. Kennedy, and the first person since George H. W. Bush to have held the office of both president and vice president.[12][13][14] Harris became the first woman to hold a nationally elected office, and the first African American and first Asian American vice president.

## Organizers

[edit]

### Joint Congressional Committee

[edit]

The swearing-in ceremony for President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris was planned by the Joint Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, a bipartisan committee composed of United States Senators Roy Blunt (chairman), Mitch McConnell, and Amy Klobuchar, and United States Representatives Nancy Pelosi, Steny Hoyer, and Kevin McCarthy.[15][5] The committee is overseen by the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration.[5]

On December 8, 2020, Republican members of the committee voted against a resolution that would have publicly recognized Biden as the president-elect and Harris as the vice president-elect.[16] After Biden and Harris's win was certified by the Electoral College, Blunt and several other Republican senators finally acknowledged him and her as the president-elect and vice president-elect, stating that he will facilitate communications with Biden's presidential inaugural committee to prepare for the inauguration.[17]

### Presidential Inaugural Committee

[edit]

The 2021 Presidential Inaugural Committee organized several other inauguration‑related events at the direction of the president‑elect and vice president‑elect of the United States. The committee was led by Jim Clyburn, Eric Garcetti, Cedric Richmond, Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Gretchen Whitmer (co-chairs), Tony Allen (chief executive officer), Maju Varghese (executive director), Yvanna Cancela and Erin Wilson (deputy executive directors), David A. Kessler (chief medical adviser), and Adrienne Elrod (director of talent and external affairs).[18] The committee hired Stephanie Cutter and Ricky Kirshner, who produced the largely virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention, along with Glenn Weiss to organize the inaugural programming.[19]

## Theme and programming

[edit]

The Joint Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies chose the inaugural theme "Our Determined Democracy: Forging a More Perfect Union" to highlight the inaugural ceremony as a "hallmark of American governance and democracy" and stress the peaceful transition of power.[5]

Allen, Biden Inaugural Committee CEO, said the events would "look different amid the pandemic" but maintain inaugural traditions while engaging Americans in a safe manner.[18] This included several virtual concerts and events hosted by celebrities, featuring live musical performances and speeches that spanned five days—Saturday, January 16, 2021, through the evening of Inauguration Day.[20] The committee's inaugural theme was "America United" and its official YouTube channel and other social media featured exclusive content related to the ceremonies.[21]

## Planning

[edit]

Inaugural platform at the United States Capitol

On September 3, 2020, the Capitol Police Board announced that public access to the West Front of the United States Capitol would be restricted from September 7, 2020, to February 28, 2021, to "allow for the safe and secure construction of the Inaugural platform, stands, and other infrastructure necessary to support the event".[22] Construction began on September 29, 2020.[23] The traditional "first nail ceremony" commemorating the start of construction of the inaugural platform was not held because it coincided with the death and state funeral of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the Supreme Court justice.[24] The platform can support 1,600 spectators. However, far fewer were permitted for this event, due to attendance restrictions designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.[4] Another 1,000 people, often choirs and musical guests, are traditionally situated on risers above the platform, but these were not used at full capacity for this event.[5]

## Costs

[edit]

Compared to past inaugurations, the drastic reduction in crowd size at Biden's inauguration was expected to reduce costs.[25] Typically, presidential inaugurations cost about US$100 million.[25] In September 2020, prior to implementing attendance restrictions, costs were estimated to exceed US$44.9 million, with the District of Columbia's costs incurred in connection with the event being reimbursed by the federal government.[26] However, the storming of the Capitol two weeks prior to the inauguration on January 6, along with threats of nationwide unrest, significantly increased the need for security.[27] John Sandweg, a former Homeland Security Department official, remarked that the United States Secret Service likely has a surplus of funds because of lower-than-usual expenses during the 2020 campaign season, when presidential nominating conventions were mostly virtual and the travel of presidential candidates was curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[25]

## Security and counter-terrorism efforts

[edit]

Main article: Security preparations for the inauguration of Joe Biden

Further information: January 6 United States Capitol attack

The inaugural platform occupied by pro-Trump rioters during the January 6 United States Capitol attack, fourteen days before the inauguration

The storming of the United States Capitol on January 6 raised concerns about the security of the inauguration.[28][29] However, Biden chose not to move the ceremony indoors, indicating that he believed a public, outdoor ceremony was necessary to demonstrate strength.[30] In response, organizers and officials made an unprecedented effort to secure the Capitol during the ceremony and deter people from visiting Washington, D.C., during the week of the inauguration over concerns of political violence. While several individuals were arrested near the Capitol in the days preceding the event for carrying illegal weapons,[31] disobeying police,[32] and trespassing,[33] and a fire near a homeless encampment prompted an evacuation of the grounds,[34] the ceremony proceeded without incident.[35] A heightened security presence remained in the city through the end of the month.[36]

### Security operations

[edit]

Troops resting on the floor of Emancipation Hall inside the Capitol

The inauguration, like all ceremonies since the first inauguration of George W. Bush in 2001, was designated a National Special Security Event (NSSE).[27] However, following the attack and reports of subsequent threats to disrupt Biden's inauguration and incite nationwide unrest, the Secret Service launched a security operation that surpassed any in modern U.S. history.[28][37] The Secret Service established a Multi-Agency Command Center (MACC) to coordinate security—formed six days earlier than planned—composed of agents and representatives from many government agencies (such as the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Defense Department, Park Police, and D.C. Metro Police) and private companies (including a gas company, CSX railroad, and Amtrak).[28] Combined efforts included:

* Activating more than 25,000 National Guard forces into the city—which may have been the highest since the American Civil War[38]—as a part of Operation Capitol Response, with members arriving from all U.S. states, three territories, and the District of Columbia itself.[39]
* Installing "non-scalable" seven foot-high crowd control barriers and jersey barriers with razor wire atop around the perimeter of the Capitol grounds.[40]
* Deputizing up to 4,000 local law enforcement officers from across the nation via the Marshals Service.[37]
* Strengthening aviation security at the three D.C.-area airports, increasing the use of random gate screenings, explosive detection dogs, and federal air marshals,[38][41] and tightening D.C. airspace restrictions.[42][43] Many major airlines also banned incoming travelers from checking firearms on board flights.[44]
* Assigning 750 active-duty military personnel to specialized units (including CBRN defenses, bomb squads, logistics and communications personnel, and medical personnel),[42] and aircraft and watercraft, including U.S. Coast Guard cutters and U.S. Air Force fighter jets.[42]
* The House Oversight Committee asked 27 transportation and hotel companies, including Avis, Hertz, Marriott, and Hyatt, to implement screening procedures to prevent the use of their services by domestic terrorists targeting the inauguration.[45]

Security-related site restrictions in and around the National Mall, Southwest D.C., Capitol Hill, and downtown Washington, D.C., on Inauguration Day

#### Travel restrictions and site closures

[edit]

* D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser urged tourists not to visit the city,[46] and the Office of Personnel Management asked federal agencies to allow federal employees to work remotely.[41]
* The National Mall, which served as a non-ticketed viewing area in past ceremonies, and Washington Monument at its geographic center, were closed to the public.[47] Much of the surrounding downtown area near Capitol Hill, Union Station, the Lincoln Memorial, and White House came under significant parking restrictions and road closures.[48][49]
* Many Metrorail stations,[50] Metrobus routes,[51] Amtrak,[52] MARC,[53] and Virginia Railway Express commuter rail service lines were modified or suspended.
* Airbnb canceled all reservations in the city,[54] and a local hotel workers' union called on hotels to restrict guests to those providing inauguration security.[55]
* The U.S. Postal Service temporarily removed or locked public post boxes and suspended mail collection in Washington and several major U.S. cities to "protect postal property, employees, and the public".[56]
* The Commonwealth of Virginia closed four bridges connecting to D.C.—Theodore Roosevelt, Arlington Memorial, Interstate 395, and 14th Street.[57] A stretch of 10 miles (16 km) of the Potomac River between the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge was closed to marine traffic.[58]

## Pre-inaugural events

[edit]

### America United inaugural welcome

[edit]

On the Saturday before the inauguration, America United: An Inauguration Welcome Event Celebrating America's Changemakers, opened the inaugural program through a series of musical performances and political speeches.[59][20] The live-streamed event opened with an original performance of "Everybody Deserves To Be Free" by the Resistance Revival Choir, a group of female and non-binary protest singers,[60] featuring a lead vocal by soul artist Deva Mahal.[59]

The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by members of the Girl Scouts. Mexican American producer Cristela Alonzo hosted the program, remarking that Biden's inauguration will be "the beginning of the next chapter" in American history.[59] New Mexico Congresswoman Deb Haaland then recounted the history of America's indigenous peoples, and introduced Quechan Indian tribal nation leader Claudette White, who joined in the performance of a traditional song.[59] After the performance, several female political organizers appeared and discussed the significance of Harris's election as the first female vice president.[59] Alonzo then introduced actor Nik Dodani, who emphasized the importance of Biden's inauguration, and civil rights activist Janet Murguía, who spoke of the political successes of women of color in the 2020 presidential election.[59] International, national, and local union leaders, including American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten and National Education Association president Rebecca S. Pringle, along with leaders representing firefighters, government and service sector employees, steel, auto, postal, food, and communications workers then hailed Biden's win as a success for workers in their respective industries, citing his support of their causes, such as the Fight for $15.[59]

Actress Whoopi Goldberg then appeared and said she felt "optimistic" for the nation under Biden's and Harris's leadership, and actor and musician Darren Criss then performed a cover of "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher".[59][61] Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms of Atlanta, Georgia, an early endorser of Biden's 2020 campaign,[62] then joined, saying Biden "will ensure that all Americans ... have their voices heard".[59] Musical group the Black Pumas then performed their song "Colors" and said they were "looking forward to a new sense of optimism, unity and peace" for all Americans.[61] Concluding the event, New York Congresswoman Grace Meng introduced Harris, who said that she "stands on the shoulders" of those who created opportunities for women, particularly African-American women, to participate and lead in politics.[20][59]

### Official musical playlist

[edit]

The Biden Inaugural Committee released an official musical playlist of 46 songs (symbolizing Biden as the 46th president) that was curated by disc jockey D-Nice and music label Raedio,[63] created by actress Issa Rae.[64] The playlist was part of the committee's efforts to have Americans participate from home for the inauguration.[65] The playlist, released on all major streaming platforms, included Biden, Harris, and their spouses' "walk-on songs", which were played when they appeared on stage at campaign rallies.[63][65] According to Rolling Stone, Biden's "walk-on song" was "We Take Care of Our Own" by Bruce Springsteen; Jill Biden's was "You Make My Dreams (Come True)" by Hall & Oates; Harris's was "Work That" by Mary J. Blige; and Emhoff's was "You Get What You Give" by New Radicals.[63] Committee CEO Allen remarked that the musical selections "reflect the relentless spirit and rich diversity of America" and served as the "score to a new chapter" in American history as Biden and Harris begin their "important work to unite [the] country".[63][65]

### "We the People" virtual concert

[edit]

On the Sunday before the inauguration, Biden's inaugural committee organized the virtual "We the People" concert fundraiser co-hosted by actor Keegan-Michael Key and actress Debra Messing.[66] Attendees of the live-streamed event had to donate to the Biden Inaugural Committee to be allowed entry.[67] The concert opened with Biden and his wife, Jill, thanking supporters of his campaign and acknowledging the lives lost in the COVID-19 pandemic; Biden remarked that it is the "honor of [his] lifetime" to serve as president.[67]

Musician Ben Harper was the first musical performance of the night, playing his song "With My Own Two Hands".[68] Singer Michael Bivins made a video appearance and thanked viewers for their donations. Band AJR then performed their song "Bummerland".[68] Singer Barbra Streisand then joined to congratulate Biden and Harris, calling for them to "restore the health" of the United States and world; she also performed her rendition of "Happy Days Are Here Again", an American standard.[68][67] Messing introduced actor and former Barack Obama administration member Kal Penn, who reflected on the importance of the inauguration and hope of a "brighter future".[68] Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, then joined via video link to thank supporters and list the issues they will face in leading the nation.[67]

Rapper will.i.am then performed "American Dream",[68] a charity single supporting his fundraising initiative for the i.am Angel Foundation to expand STEM education for underprivileged students.[69] Actress and activist Sophia Bush later appeared to thank donors to the inaugural committee, and musician Carole King performed her Grammy Award-winning song "You've Got a Friend".[70] Mexican actor Jaime Camil then delivered a short address on immigration, and James Taylor performed "America the Beautiful", which he previously had played at the 2013 inauguration.[71][72] Actress Connie Britton reflected on political unity and the time she met then-Vice President Biden at the 2016 United State of Women Summit.[71] Musical act Fall Out Boy performed their song "Centuries" in a pre-recorded video.[68] Cher then addressed Biden's and Harris's win, saying that she was "thrilled" and "optimistic" for them to lead the nation; she then performed a cover of Miley Cyrus's song "I Hope You Find It".[67] In concluding the event, DJ Cassidy addressed viewers and sampled music.[68]

### National Day of Service

[edit]

A social media graphic from the Biden Inaugural Committee regarding the National Day of Service

Two days before Inauguration Day, January 18, 2021, was Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the federal holiday that recognizes Dr. King's birthday. Biden and his inaugural committee encouraged Americans to engage in acts of community service and organized more than 2,500 virtual or socially distant volunteer events in 56 U.S. states and territories in partnership with AmeriCorps.[73] The committee recommended several volunteer activities aimed at improving people's economic, health, and social well-being,[74] including writing cards for those recovering from COVID-19, knitting sentimental items for the homeless, serving at "contactless" food and clothing donation drives, and participating in community cleanups.[75] Biden and his wife volunteered at Philabundance, a non-profit food bank in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by helping box canned goods.[76] Harris and her husband volunteered in Washington, D.C.[77]

#### United We Serve online event

[edit]

On the evening of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Biden inaugural committee celebrated King's commitment to community service through virtual speeches and music in United We Serve: A Celebration of the National MLK Day of Service.[78][79] Co-hosts Sean Patrick Thomas and Lynn Whitfield introduced the event and commended the acts of volunteerism Americans participated in during the day of service; both Harris and her husband, Emhoff, appeared and discussed the importance of the inauguration and community service.[79] King's son, Martin Luther King III, daughter-in-law, Andrea, and granddaughter, Yolanda, discussed community service; his youngest daughter, Bernice King, then spoke at a pulpit and remarked on her father's practice of nonviolence.[78] Musician Aloe Blacc performed his song "My Way";[80] cellist Yo-Yo Ma performed Air and Simple Gifts, a composition he also performed at the 2009 inauguration in the presence of then-Vice President-elect Biden;[81] Andra Day performed her song "Rise Up"; BeBe Winans performed King's "I Have a Dream" speech;[82] Alejandro Fernández and band Maná performed "Decepciones";[83] and Chesca and Diane Warren performed "El Cambio", which was frequently played during Biden's campaign. Additional speakers included Al Sharpton, NAACP president Derrick Johnson, National Urban League president Marc Morial, Senators Cory Booker and Tammy Duckworth, Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids, actress Rosario Dawson, and several other academics and civil rights activists who spoke on the legacy of King.[80]

The National Mall covered with flags representing inaugural attendees who were unable to attend in person

### Field of Flags

[edit]

Across the National Mall to 13th Street, a public art display composed of 191,500 U.S. flags and 56 pillars of light (representing the 50 U.S. states, D.C., and the five permanently inhabited U.S. territories), were installed, representing those who could not attend the inauguration in person due to the attendance restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.[84][85] The field was lit the evening of January 18.[86]

### Lincoln Memorial lighting

[edit]

Biden, Harris, and their spouses at the Lincoln Memorial lighting ceremony

On January 19, Biden departed his home state of Delaware in a send-off ceremony at his deceased son Beau Biden's namesake Major Joseph R. "Beau" Biden III National Guard/Reserve Center in New Castle;[87] the event included remarks from Delaware Governor John Carney, Biden, his wife Jill, and a benediction by Rabbi Michael S. Beals of Congregation Beth Shalom in Wilmington.[88] Later that day, Biden, Harris, and their spouses participated in a nationwide lighting ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.[89] Inaugural organizers invited communities around the United States to light buildings and ring church bells at 5:30 p.m. ET on the eve of the inauguration in a moment of "unity and remembrance" for those who died during the pandemic.[89] The Lincoln Memorial lighting was held simultaneously, providing a moment of national reflection to help Americans find the spirit to rebuild after the pandemic.[90] Cardinal Wilton Daniel Gregory, the archbishop of Washington, delivered the ceremony's invocation; gospel singer Yolanda Adams sang "Hallelujah" and Michigan nurse Lori Marie Key performed "Amazing Grace". Both Biden and Harris, in their addresses, emphasized the importance of national grieving, with Biden saying it's "how [Americans] heal".[87] Several national landmarks participated in the lighting ceremony, including the Empire State Building, Space Needle, and other buildings in major U.S. cities, as well as on tribal lands.[90] Washington National Cathedral tolled its bells four hundred times, each one in memory of a thousand Americans who had died, thus far, in the COVID-19 pandemic.[91]

### Other virtual events

[edit]

#### Asian American and Pacific Islanders

[edit]

Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) were celebrated in AAPI Inaugural Ball: Breaking Barriers, a partnership between the inaugural committee, and advocacy organizations IMPACT and RUN AAPI.[92][80] The event featured remarks and musical performances from Neera Tanden, Congresspeople Ami Bera, Pramila Jayapal, Andy Kim, and Raja Krishnamoorthi; former Olympian Michelle Kwan; actors Kal Penn, John Cho, Kumail Nanjiani, and Chloe Bennet;[93] and musical performances by Japanese Breakfast,[92] Ari Afsar, Raja Kumari, and others.[80]

#### African Americans

[edit]

African Americans were celebrated in We Are One, hosted by Terrence J, through "inspiring stories and entertaining performances".[94] Politicians Stacey Abrams, congresspeople Jim Clyburn, Cedric Richmond, Joyce Beatty, Senator Cory Booker, and Senator-elect Raphael Warnock appeared.[80] Actors and actresses, including Leslie Jones and Kim Fields, were also featured; musical acts Tobe Nwigwe, DJ D-Nice, Frankie Beverly, The O'Jays, Rapsody, and Step Afrika!, among others, performed.[80] The event also included a Battle of the Bands, featuring several historically black college marching bands from around the nation.[80][94] Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority president Glenda Glover and Howard University president Wayne A. I. Frederick delivered remarks.[95]

#### Hispanic and Latino Americans

[edit]

Hispanic and Latino Americans were celebrated in Latino Inaugural 2021: Inheritance, Resilience, and Promise, hosted by Eva Longoria, in partnership with many Hispanic advocacy groups, including the Hispanic Federation.[80][94] Entertainment figures John Leguizamo, Rita Moreno, Edward James Olmos, Ivy Queen, and Becky G appeared along with many civil and voting rights advocates and U.S. senators Ben Ray Luján, Bob Menendez, Catherine Cortez Masto, and Alex Padilla (Harris's senatorial designate).[80] Musical performers included Gilberto Santa Rosa, Gaby Moreno (featuring David Garza), who performed "Fronteras",[80] Lin-Manuel Miranda and Luis Miranda paid tribute to Puerto Rico through the song "En Mi Viejo San Juan",[93] Mariachi Nuevo Santander, who performed American folk song "This Land is Your Land"; and All-Star Tejanos United, an act from Roma, Texas, performed "America the Beautiful: A Salute to the Latino Imprint".[96] The Wailers performed the Emilio Estefan production "One World, One Prayer", featuring relatives of Jamaican musician Bob Marley.[94]

### Train ride

[edit]

Biden originally planned to travel to Washington, D.C., from Wilmington, Delaware, on an Amtrak passenger train, which he routinely took during his time as a U.S. Senator. However, on January 14, this plan was canceled due to security concerns.[97] On January 20, 2017, after completing his tenure as vice president, Biden departed the city on an Amtrak Acela train bound for his namesake station in Wilmington.[98]

### Inauguration Day morning

[edit]

Biden and his wife spent the night of January 19 at Blair House, the President's Guest House—a custom for incoming presidents.[99] Traditionally, the president-elect meets with the outgoing president at the White House on the morning of their inauguration after a church service. Since Trump did not attend the inaugural ceremony—becoming the first outgoing president to not attend since Andrew Johnson in 1869[100]—and did not communicate with Biden directly since the second presidential debate of the 2020 campaign, this tradition was not upheld.[101] Before each of his inaugurations as vice president, Biden attended a Catholic Mass celebrated by Kevin O'Brien. In 2013, this service was at the vice president's residence.[102] Biden and his wife, along with the second family attended a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by O'Brien at the Cathedral of St. Matthew in Washington.[103] Biden extended invitations to the four congressional leaders from both parties—Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)—and all four accepted.[104]

#### Trump departure ceremony

[edit]

President Trump greets a crowd of supporters during his farewell ceremony

Trump departed for his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, the morning of the inauguration out of Joint Base Andrews aboard Air Force One.[105][106] Trump and his wife, First Lady Melania Trump, landed on the tarmac in helicopter Marine One.[107] Cannons fired in salute, after a military band played "Hail to the Chief", in front of a modest crowd of a few hundred aides and other loyalists.[108] Trump's White House had issued invitations for the event to many present and former administration officials. Several invitees who have been critical of Trump, such as Don McGahn, John F. Kelly, and Anthony Scaramucci, declined to attend.[109][87]

Trump was only the fifth outgoing United States president not to attend their elected successor's inauguration, after John Adams in 1801, John Quincy Adams in 1829, Martin Van Buren in 1841, and Andrew Johnson in 1869.[110]

Before departing, Trump delivered short remarks at a podium bearing the presidential seal, telling his supporters "we will be back in some form."[107][106][111] A number of songs played as he boarded the airplane, many of which featured prominently at Trump rallies; this included "Macho Man" and "Y.M.C.A.", as well as "Fortunate Son", "Funeral for a Friend", and "Billie Jean".[112] As Air Force One lifted off, Frank Sinatra's "My Way" played—the song Trump and his wife danced to during his inaugural ball four years prior.[106]

Trump delivered his official first farewell address, a recorded online video, the day before the inauguration. Without naming Biden, he referred to the "inauguration of a new administration", saying that "we pray for its success at keeping America safe and prosperous."[113][114] In keeping with tradition, Trump left Biden a letter of support in the Resolute desk.[115] When asked about the letter, Biden said it was "generous", but refused to provide details.[116] Outgoing Vice President Mike Pence attended Biden's inauguration, then departed for his home state of Indiana, where a group of supporters, including his brother, Indiana Congressman Greg Pence, welcomed him.[87]

#### "Our White House" online event

[edit]

Beginning two hours before the outset of the inaugural ceremony, actress Keke Palmer hosted Our White House: An Inaugural Celebration for Young Americans, a livestream aimed at engaging youth in the day's events.[117] Jill Biden addressed viewers in a pre-recorded message, and historians Doris Kearns Goodwin and Erica Armstrong Dunbar discussed the ceremony's significance; a Nickelodeon special on White House pets and PBS NewsHour student interviews aired, along with other curated educational content.[117]

## Inaugural events

[edit]

### Presidential communications

[edit]

The transfer of power included the transition of official administration Twitter accounts, @POTUS and @VP. Members of the Biden administration also assumed ownership of a number of institutional accounts, including @WhiteHouse, @FLOTUS for First Lady Jill Biden, @SecondGentleman for Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, and @PressSec for White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki.[118] New executive branch websites were initialized; previous administrations' websites reside in the National Archives.[119]

### COVID-19 public health measures and attendance

[edit]

Former president Bill Clinton and former first lady Hillary Clinton Former president George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush Former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama Outgoing vice president Mike Pence and outgoing second lady Karen Pence

Most traditional inaugural festivities were conducted virtually, primarily modeled after the 2020 Democratic National Convention.[120] The ceremony took place outdoors on the West Front of the United States Capitol, the site of every inauguration since Ronald Reagan's in 1981. While members of Congress, in previous years, would receive 200,000 tickets to distribute among constituents, on this occasion, each member was allotted one guest ticket,[121] with many taking their spouses.[122] Only about three thousand people were to be permitted into the secure perimeter areas,[123] and the total live attendance for the scaled-down event was to be just over a thousand,[124] with guests seated both on the inaugural platform and in front of the platform.[122]

The decision to limit attendance was made by the Joint Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies based on consultation with public health experts.[121] According to historian Jim Bendat, COVID-19 prevention and security measures instituted for Biden's inauguration would make it the smallest ceremony since Franklin D. Roosevelt's fourth inauguration in 1945, when the inaugural was held at the White House before an audience of just a thousand people due to Roosevelt's poor health and the ongoing world war.[125]

Outgoing U.S. President Donald Trump (who later re-elected in 2024 and then inaugurated as the 47th president in 2025) and First Lady Melania Trump refused to attend the ceremony, the first time an incumbent skipped their successor's inauguration since Andrew Johnson refused to attend Grant's first inauguration in 1869. Former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama (under whom Biden served as vice president), along with respective former first ladies Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama, attended. Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter and former first lady Rosalynn Carter could not attend due to their advanced age and inability to travel.[126]

Outgoing U.S. Vice President Mike Pence (who succeeded Biden as vice president in 2017) and Second Lady Karen Pence were in attendance.[127][128] Apart from Pence and Biden himself, Dan Quayle was the only other living former U.S. vice president who attended the ceremony, as Walter Mondale (who died 3 months after Biden's inauguration), Al Gore and Dick Cheney were absent.[129][130]

For the first time in more than two decades, not every U.S. Supreme Court justice attended: Justices Clarence Thomas, Stephen Breyer, and Samuel Alito, the oldest members of the Court, officially opted not to attend in light of the COVID-19 health risks, while the other six justices attended.[131] Alito's home had been displaying a "Stop the Steal" symbol[132][133] while Thomas's wife Ginni had been involved in that movement. Other attendees included the family members of Biden and Harris,[122] Biden's Cabinet nominees,[122] various ambassadors to the United States,[134][135] and other dignitaries.[136] For the first time, the representative of Taiwan in the United States (the country's de facto ambassador) was invited to attend a presidential inauguration, with Hsiao Bi-khim attending the ceremony.[137]

### Ceremony

[edit]

Lady Gaga performing the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner"

The weather was blustery on the day of the ceremony: at 12 noon at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, located 3.1 miles from the Capitol, the temperature was 42 °F (6 °C), with 20 mph winds gusting to 28 mph.[138] The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets played ruffles and flourishes. The U.S. Marine Band (nicknamed "The President's Own") played a medley of patriotic music by Sousa, Bagley, and others; heralded the entry of dignitaries to the inaugural platform with works including a newly commissioned Fanfare for Tomorrow written by Peter Boyer,[139] "Hail, America" to introduce then-President-elect Biden; "Hail, Columbia" (the official anthem of the vice president) to introduce then-Vice President Pence and after Harris was sworn in, and "Hail to the Chief" (the official anthem of the president) after Biden was sworn in. The band had appeared at every presidential inauguration since Thomas Jefferson's in 1801.[140][141] Courtney Williams, Senior Chief Musician and concert moderator for the U.S. Navy Concert Band, returned as the platform announcer for his fourth consecutive inauguration.[142]

Poet Amanda Gorman recites "The Hill We Climb"

Senator Amy Klobuchar opened the ceremony with a short speech, saying the storming of the Capitol two weeks prior "awakened us to our responsibilities as Americans"; she declared the inaugural day "the day when our democracy picks itself up, brushes off the dust, and does what America always does: goes forward as a nation".[143][144] Senator Roy Blunt, chair of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies and the master of ceremonies, delivered a short speech expounding the Constitution's Preamble, noting that unlike the Articles of Confederation or the Magna Carta, it roots and establishes law and authority in "We the People". Blunt remarked that the endeavor to create a "more perfect Union" is a continuing project and "we are more than we have been and we are less than we hope to be."[145]

Leo J. O'Donovan, a Catholic priest and former president of Georgetown University,[146][147] invoked the "gracious and merciful God" in praying for Biden and Harris to "care for the common good with malice toward none and with charity for all", and quoted Archbishop John Carroll, Pope Francis, and the Epistle of James.[148] Lady Gaga then sang the national anthem,[149] wearing a custom design gown and brooch by Schiaparelli.[150] The Georgia firefighters' union leader Andrea Hall led the Pledge of Allegiance, using American Sign Language in addition to speaking. Jennifer Lopez performed her renditions of "This Land Is Your Land" and "America the Beautiful", and during the bridge she translated the last stanza of the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish: "¡una nación, bajo Dios, indivisible, con libertad y justicia para todos!"

After the inaugural address (see below), Garth Brooks performed "Amazing Grace" (including the verse "When we've been there ten thousand years"), and asked the public to join him in singing the final verse; and National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman recited her poem "The Hill We Climb".[151][152][153] At 22, Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet.[152] Silvester Beaman, a Methodist pastor of Bethel AME Church in Wilmington, Delaware, and a friend of Biden, delivered the benediction paraphrasing Isaiah 11 by replacing both in the messianic role of the "shoot from the stump of Jesse", and in the yet-to-be-reconciled role of the "wolf" and "lamb", with references to "We the People"—saying, for example, "We will not kill or destroy on all your Holy Mountain," and "We will not learn hate anymore."[147]

Biden was sworn in on a Bible that has been in his family since 1893—the same one he used during his senatorial and vice presidential swearing-in ceremonies—held by his wife.[154] It is a late 19th-century edition of the Douay–Rheims Bible, with commentary by George Leo Haydock.[155] The Bible is large—five inches (12.7 cm) thick—and has a Celtic cross on the front.[156] Biden's inauguration marked the first time a Catholic Chief Justice administered the oath to an incoming Catholic president.[157] Harris was sworn in on two Bibles held by her husband, one belonging to Regina Shelton, a person important to her and her sister Maya Harris, and another belonging to former Supreme Court Associate Justice Thurgood Marshall.[158]

#### Oaths of office

[edit]

Kamala Harris takes the vice presidential oath of office, administered by Supreme Court Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

Joe Biden takes the presidential oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts.

Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor administered the oath of office to Harris at 11:40 a.m., with 20 minutes remaining in Pence's term. Sotomayor became the first woman to administer an inaugural oath twice after she administered then-Vice President Biden's at his 2013 swearing-in.[158] Harris recited the following:

> I, Kamala Devi Harris, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. [So help me God.]

Chief Justice John Roberts then administered Biden's oath of office at 11:47 a.m., with 13 minutes remaining in Trump's term.[159][160] Biden recited the following, as prescribed by the Constitution:

> I, Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr., do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. [So help me God.]

Upon completing the oath, the U.S. Army Band ("Pershing's Own") played four ruffles and flourishes, but a 21-gun cannon salute was not rendered, which caused a brief delay in the proceedings before Biden was able to deliver his inaugural address. The 21-gun cannon salute for President Biden was later rendered at the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.[161]

The flag of the vice president of the United States was present at the beginning of the inauguration ceremony, indicating the presence of the then-incumbent vice president Mike Pence. At noon the flag continued to fly for the new incumbent Kamala Harris. When the noon hour arrived, the flag of the president of the United States was raised by the military sentry, indicating the presence of the newly sworn incumbent president.

The presidential nuclear football, which can authorize a nuclear attack while away from a command center, was discreetly given to military aides of the new administration during the ceremony; however, Trump's absence did not change the automatic deactivation of his and Pence's nuclear access and activation of Biden and Harris'.[162]

#### Inaugural address

[edit]

Joe Biden delivers his inaugural address on January 20, 2021

English Wikisource has a transcript of Biden's inaugural address:

en:Joe Biden's Inaugural Address

The inaugural address was 2,514 words long and took 21 minutes to deliver, between 11:52 a.m. and 12:13 p.m., with 7 minutes remaining in President Trump's first term and in the first 13 minutes of President Biden's term. Biden's inaugural speech was regarded as laying out his vision to unite the nation prefaced by the various impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic strife, climate change, political polarization, and racial injustice.[163] Biden composed the speech with the assistance of speechwriter Vinay Reddy, senior advisor Mike Donilon, then-incoming Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and chief of staff Ron Klain.[164] His speech was described by the New York Times as a "direct rebuttal" in tone to Trump's inaugural address (in which Trump spoke of "American carnage"), as Biden called for an end to the "uncivil war" of political, demographic, and ideological American cultures through a greater embrace of diversity.[165] In the speech, Biden repeated his campaign pledge to "fight as hard for those who did not support me as for those who did".[166][167] Focusing on the struggles of American citizens, Biden expressed sympathy, but stressed that distrust and fighting amongst one another would not better their conditions.[168] He cited the Civil War, Great Depression, world wars, and September 11 attacks as moments in American history where citizens' "better angels" prevailed, saying that the solution—unity—must again be invoked to rise from the "cascading" crises of the present; this unity, he proclaimed, exists in the "common objects" that define America: "opportunity, liberty, dignity, respect, honor, and ... truth".[168][166]

Biden delivers his inaugural address to a socially distant crowd

Biden vocalized his opposition to disinformation and politicians who seek to gain from its weaponization—a passive reference to Trump, who frequently made false or misleading statements while in office.[165] He explicitly decried white supremacy and nativism, calling them an "ugly reality" of American life he vows to defeat that clouds the "American ideal" set out in the U.S. Declaration of Independence—that all Americans are equal.[165][166][169] Biden pledged that the United States would "engage with the world once again"; "repair our alliances"; and act as a "trusted partner for peace and security".[170] His decision, for example, to reinstate American participation in the Paris Agreement via executive order, which Trump withdrew from, signaled his commitment to a global policy on climate change.[171]

Biden also discussed the historical significance of Harris's ascension to the vice presidency, recounting the movements for civil rights and women's suffrage that permitted African Americans and women to participate in politics; he celebrated their inauguration as a "triumph" for democracy, affirming a peaceful transfer of power exactly two weeks after the violent storming of the Capitol.[167][166] Near the conclusion of his speech, Biden held a moment of silence for those who died in the COVID-19 pandemic.[168] Quoting the Gene Scheer composition "American Anthem",[172] he implored Americans to consider their legacy in answering the "call of history" to protect "democracy, hope, truth, and justice", "secure liberty", and make America a "beacon to the world", insisting that generations of their descendants will judge them on their actions.[168] In closing his speech, Biden promised to "always level" with the American people and govern exclusively in their interest.[168]

### Post-inaugural events: "America United"

[edit]

#### Signing ceremony

[edit]

Following the swearing-in ceremony, President Biden participated in a signing ceremony, proclaiming the day a National Day of Unity and declaring his nominations for Cabinet and sub-Cabinet positions to Congress.[173] Later in the evening, Vice President Harris performed her first vice presidential duty by swearing in Senators-elect Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock who, respectively, won the January 5 regular and special Georgia Senate runoff elections that yielded a Democratic majority in the U.S. Senate, along with Alex Padilla, who was appointed by California Governor Gavin Newsom to fill Harris's vacated seat.[174]

#### Inaugural luncheon

[edit]

The congressional luncheon, a tradition witnessed since the 1897 inauguration of William McKinley, was canceled due to public health concerns, the first time since the 1977 inauguration of Jimmy Carter.[175] However, President Biden and Vice President Harris were presented several gifts in the Capitol rotunda, including Landscape with Rainbow by Robert S. Duncanson, two lead Lenox crystal vases cut by Peter O'Rourke, two flags that had been flown over the Capitol during the inaugural ceremony, and portraits of them taking their oaths of office.[176]

#### Pass in Review

[edit]

President Biden, Vice President Harris, and their spouses, participate in a Pass in Review

Later in the afternoon, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and their spouses participated in a Pass in Review on the East Front of the United States Capitol featuring members of the United States Armed Forces. Traditionally, before the Pass in Review, the new president would escort the outgoing president to a helicopter, Marine One, where they would officially depart Washington, D.C.[177] However, Trump's decision to not attend Biden's inauguration and rather depart prior to the event's outset broke this custom.

#### Wreath laying ceremony

[edit]

President Biden and Vice President Harris lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery

Following the Pass in Review, President Biden and Vice President Harris, along with former presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama, and all their spouses, participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.[46] The television package included footage of former presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama at Arlington Memorial Amphitheater discussing the peaceful transition of power.[178] Presidential historian Timothy Naftali noted that the ceremony was significant because Congress had decided on Inauguration Day in 1921, almost a hundred years prior to Biden's, to bury an unidentified soldier who died in World War I at the spot.[179] Naftali additionally remarked that the gathering of Biden and former presidents to honor the unknown soldiers who died in war served as a "visual message of unity, at a time of anxiety, pain and suffering in [the] country".[179]

#### Parade Across America

[edit]

The inaugural parade procession passes the White House The presidential motorcade carrying President Biden travels to the White House

Following the wreath laying ceremony, a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, NW escorted President Biden and Vice President Harris to the White House which included every branch of the U.S. military, along with drumline bands from Biden and Harris's alma maters, the University of Delaware and Howard University, respectively.[180][181] The Virtual Parade Across America, organized by the Biden Inaugural Committee, was hosted by actor Tony Goldwyn, reflecting the "diversity, heritage, and resilience of the country" in the event's musical acts, poets, dance troupes, and more.[182][180] Viewing stands outside the White House that were originally constructed for members of the public were dismantled because they were ultimately deemed unnecessary for the revised plans.[183] The live parade was announced by Charlie Brotman, who has served as the inaugural parade announcer during almost every ceremony since former President Dwight D. Eisenhower's second inauguration.[87][184]

Comedian Jon Stewart, musicians Andra Day, Nile Rodgers, and Kathy Sledge, along with several choirs and athletes (including former Olympians Nathan Chen, Allyson Felix, and Katie Ledecky) appeared in a "virtual roll call".[180][185] The parade included 1,391 virtual participants, 95 horses, and nine dogs.[87] Frontline healthcare workers and several distinguished students and educators who helped their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic were honored as "heroes" during the ceremony.[180] Choreographer Kenny Ortega led a dance featuring 275 recorded segments from participants around the country;[181] the Ryan Martin Foundation, a basketball program for people using wheelchairs, joined the parade virtually.[180] Musical act New Radicals reunited for the first time in two decades to conclude the parade with their hit song "You Get What You Give".[186] The song was used by Harris's husband, Doug Emhoff, during 2020 campaign rallies, and was referred to by Biden in his autobiography, Promise Me, Dad, as his family's "rallying theme song" during his deceased son Beau's terminal battle with glioblastoma.[186] The band's leader, Gregg Alexander, said he hoped the group's performance of the song was a "tiniest beacon of light in such a dark time".[186]

####  Celebrating America

[edit]

Main article: Celebrating America

Fireworks during the finale of "Celebrating America"

Celebrating America was a television special hosted by Tom Hanks that aired the evening of the inauguration across most major television networks and other cable and streaming outlets. The event featured many musical guests and celebrities, including Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake, Dave Grohl, Tim McGraw, Lin-Manuel Miranda, John Legend, Demi Lovato, and Katy Perry.[187] The Biden Inaugural Committee raised over $61.8 million for the event from various companies, unions, and individuals.[188]

####  National Prayer Service

[edit]

At 10:00 a.m. on the morning of January 21, the National Prayer Service took place at Washington National Cathedral. A virtual service, Biden and his family participated from the White House. More than thirty religious leaders of various faiths participated; William Barber II preached, calling for a "third reconstruction" of America in his homily.[189]

## Protests and demonstrations

[edit]

Main article: 2021 United States inauguration week protests

A series of protests and counter-protests related to the results of the 2020 presidential election began in December 2020.[190] After the storming of the Capitol, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser requested the Interior Department to cancel city demonstration permits and reject demonstration applications during the inauguration,[46][191] but the agency declined to do so.[191] The National Park Service designated two adjacent areas—portions of the John Marshall Park and Navy Memorial—exclusively for "First Amendment activities" (protests).[41][192] The U.S. Park Police limited demonstration attendance to a maximum of one hundred individuals in each location and required participants be screened via magnetometers.[192] The left-wing groups ANSWER Coalition and D.C. Action Lab were granted permits and staged demonstrations within attendance limits.[191]

The scale of protests and armed militia marches that intelligence reports indicated would occur near the U.S. Capitol and at state capitols on Inauguration Day was vastly overestimated, both in size and in scope.[193] Nationally, few people demonstrated at state capitols. At the New York State Capitol, a lone Trump supporter reportedly visited with the intention of protesting—the demonstrator had expected a "massive protest".[194] On January 17, three days before the inauguration, some members of the Michigan Boogaloo Bois openly carried weapons outside the state's capitol, but never became violent.[195] NPR attributed the lack of violent protests to several factors: the Justice Department's targeting of rioters from the storming of the Capitol; protest organizers warning of "false flag" events staged by law enforcement to "gather people for potential arrest"; and the banning or removal of social media profiles, groups, pages, and applications, such as Parler, associated with political extremism and fringe movements.[193]

## Viewership

[edit]

Nearly forty million people watched Biden's address on the combined major cable news and broadcast network television stations.[196] More than 21 million people watched the prime time Celebrating America special.[196] In 2017, a combined 38.3 million viewers watched Trump's inaugural address across the same networks,[196] according to Nielsen data, representing a 4% increase in raw television viewership.[197] CNN was the ratings leader throughout the day. Compared to the previous inaugural ceremony in 2017, Fox News's viewership fell 77%, while CNN's tripled and MSNBC's quadrupled.[197] The figures below, Nielsen data sourced from Adweek,[198] do not include streaming figures.[197]

Legend | Cable news network

Broadcast network
Total viewers
11:45 AM to 12:15 PM EST | Network | Viewers

|

CNN | 9,994,000
ABC | 7,655,000
NBC | 6,885,000
MSNBC | 6,528,000
CBS | 6,068,000
FNC | 2,742,000
UNI | 1,500,000
Total viewers
11:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST | Network | Viewers

|

CNN | 7,737,000
ABC | 5,370,000
MSNBC | 5,326,000
NBC | 4,714,000
CBS | 4,133,000
FNC | 2,166,000
UNI | 1,300,000
Newsmax | 428,000
Total viewers (prime time)
8:30 to 10:00 PM EST | Network | Viewers

|

CNN | 6,677,000
MSNBC | 4,413,000
NBC | 3,863,000
ABC | 3,658,000
FNC | 3,207,000
CBS | 3,044,000

## International reactions

[edit]

Biden and Harris's assumption of their respective offices was met with congratulations from many world leaders, including prime ministers Muhyiddin Yassin, Scott Morrison, Alexander De Croo, Boris Johnson, Justin Trudeau, Mette Frederiksen, Sanna Marin, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Narendra Modi, Micheál Martin, Benjamin Netanyahu, Giuseppe Conte, Yoshihide Suga, Jacinda Ardern, Erna Solberg, Imran Khan, António Costa, Lee Hsien Loong, Pedro Sánchez, and Stefan Löfven; presidents Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Sahle-Work Zewde, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Emmanuel Macron, Jair Bolsonaro, Rodrigo Duterte, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, Tsai Ing-wen and Moon Jae-in; European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, and Pope Francis.[199][200]

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said the Chinese government hopes Biden will restore bilateralism.[199] Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called Trump a "tyrant" and urged Biden to return to the Iran nuclear agreement, which Trump withdrew the United States from, saying Iran will then "fully respect" their "commitments under the pact".[200] Hamas called Trump "the biggest source and sponsor of injustice, violence and extremism in the world", calling for Biden to "reverse the course of misguided and unjust policies against [their] people".[200]

Following the inauguration, a picture of Bernie Sanders attending went viral as an internet meme. Sanders' website subsequently sold merchandise with the picture and donated the profits to charity.[201][202]

## See also

[edit]

* Politics portal
* United States portal

* 2020 United States presidential election
* Bernie Sanders mittens meme
* Joe Biden 2020 presidential campaign
* Presidency of Joe Biden
* Presidential transition of Joe Biden
* Timeline of the Joe Biden presidency (2021 Q1)

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[edit]

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172. ^ Yoo, Noah (January 20, 2021). "President Biden Quotes From "American Anthem," His "Favorite Song," in Inaugural Address". Pitchfork. Archived from the original on January 20, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2021.
173. ^ Meg Wagner; Melissa Mahtani; Melissa Macaya; Mike Hayes; Veronica Rocha; Fernando Alfonso III (January 20, 2021). "Biden Inauguration Day: Live coverage of Joe Biden, Kamala Harris and the US Capitol ceremony". CNN. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
174. ^ Cornwell, Susan (January 19, 2021). "Democrats to take working control of U.S. Senate Wednesday when three sworn in". Reuters. Archived from the original on January 20, 2021. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
175. ^ Korte, Gregory (December 29, 2020). "Biden's Inaugural Lunch Called Off Due to Concern Over Virus". Bloomberg News. Archived from the original on January 6, 2021. Retrieved December 31, 2020.
176. ^ Schiller, Meghan (January 19, 2021). "Pittsburgh-Area Glass Cutter Handcrafts Special Inauguration Gifts For Joe Biden And Kamala Harris". Archived from the original on January 21, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2021.
177. ^ Subramanian, Courtney; Fritze, John; Jackson, David (January 15, 2021). "Trump to hold departure ceremony at Joint Base Andrews on morning of Biden inauguration". USA Today. Archived from the original on January 16, 2021. Retrieved January 16, 2021.
178. ^ Tim Elfrink (January 21, 2021). "Obama, Bush and Clinton release video praising peaceful transfers of power, as Trump skips inauguration". Washington Post. Retrieved November 9, 2023.
179. ^ a b Ryan, Josiah (January 20, 2021). "Biden Inauguration Day: Live coverage of Joe Biden, Kamala Harris and the US Capitol ceremony". CNN. Archived from the original on January 20, 2021. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
180. ^ a b c d e Collins, Michael (January 18, 2021). "Joe Biden's virtual 'Parade Across America' to feature 'heroes' and Jon Stewart, Andra Day, Kenny Ortega". USA Today. Archived from the original on January 18, 2021. Retrieved January 18, 2021.
181. ^ a b Mitchell, Samantha (January 18, 2021). "Howard University Drumline to perform during the Inaugural 'Parade Across America'". WJLA. Archived from the original on January 18, 2021. Retrieved January 18, 2021.
182. ^ Collins, Michael (January 3, 2021). "Joe Biden to get 'presidential escort' to White House, virtual parade instead of traditional inaugural festivities". USA Today. Archived from the original on January 14, 2021. Retrieved January 4, 2021.
183. ^ Brown, Matthew (December 30, 2020). "Parade viewing stands dismantled near White House as Biden team seeks to discourage inauguration crowds". USA Today. Archived from the original on January 14, 2021. Retrieved December 31, 2020.
184. ^ Kunkle, Fredrick (January 20, 2013). "Inaugural parade's announcer knows how to call 'em as voice of former Washington Senators ballclub". The Washington Post. Washington DC. Archived from the original on August 2, 2018. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
185. ^ Allen, Mike (January 19, 2021). "Biden's virtual "Parade Across America" to feature 1,391 people, 90 horses, 9 dogs". Axios. Archived from the original on January 19, 2021. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
186. ^ a b c Kreps, Daniel (January 18, 2021). "New Radicals to Reunite for First Time in 22 Years for Biden Inauguration Parade". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on January 18, 2021. Retrieved January 18, 2021.
187. ^ Lejeune, Tristan (January 20, 2021). "Bruce Springsteen kicks off 'Celebrating America' special with 'Land of Hope and Dreams'". The Hill. Archived from the original on January 21, 2021. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
188. ^ Day, Chad (April 21, 2021). "Unions, Pfizer and a Record Label Helped Biden Inaugural Committee Raise $61.8 Million". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on April 21, 2021. Retrieved April 21, 2021.
189. ^ Barber II, William J. (January 21, 2021). "Read the Rev. William Barber's Sermon From the Inaugural Prayer Service". Time. Archived from the original on January 25, 2021. Retrieved January 25, 2021.
190. ^ Khalil, Ashraf (December 12, 2020). "Trump loyalists converging again on Washington over election". Associated Press. Archived from the original on January 14, 2021. Retrieved December 12, 2020.
191. ^ a b c Knickmeyer, Ellen; Khalil, Ashraf (January 15, 2021). "Trump supporters among those seeking Jan. 20 protest permits". AP News. Archived from the original on January 17, 2021. Retrieved January 18, 2021.
192. ^ a b "Record of Determination for the Partial Temporary Closure of Areas within and around the National Mall in Response to Threats to Visitors and Park Resources—National Mall and Memorial Parks (U.S. National Park Service)". www.nps.gov. January 19, 2021. Archived from the original on January 15, 2021. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
193. ^ a b Chappell, Bill; Allam, Hannah (January 20, 2021). "No Large Protests In D.C. As President Biden Is Inaugurated". NPR. Archived from the original on January 20, 2021. Retrieved January 21, 2021.
194. ^ "At NY Capitol, a Lone Trump Supporter Protests". NBC New York. January 20, 2021. Archived from the original on January 21, 2021. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
195. ^ Wisely, John (January 17, 2021). "Lansing protest over the presidential election proves to be a dud". Detroit Free Press. Archived from the original on January 19, 2021. Retrieved January 21, 2021.
196. ^ a b c Koblin, John (January 21, 2020). "Biden's Inauguration Scores Bigger TV Ratings Than Trump's". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on January 22, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2020.
197. ^ a b c Lahut, Jake (January 21, 2021). "Over 1 million more people watched Biden's inauguration than Trump's". Business Insider. Archived from the original on January 22, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2021.
198. ^ Katz, A.J. (January 21, 2021). "Inauguration Day 2021 Ratings: CNN Is the No. 1 Network During the Inauguration of Joe Biden". adweek.com. Retrieved January 22, 2021.
199. ^ a b Axelrod, Tal (January 20, 2021). "World leaders congratulate Biden on becoming president". The Hill. Archived from the original on January 21, 2021. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
200. ^ a b c "How world leaders are reacting to Joe Biden's inauguration". Reuters. January 20, 2021. Archived from the original on January 21, 2021. Retrieved January 21, 2021.
201. ^ "Bernie Sanders' inauguration memes help raise $1.8 million for charity". NBC News. January 27, 2021. Retrieved October 18, 2022.
202. ^ McCleary, Kelly (January 23, 2021). "Bernie Sanders turns inauguration meme into sweatshirt for charity | CNN Politics". CNN. Retrieved October 18, 2022.

## External links

[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Joe Biden 2021 presidential inauguration.

* Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies
* Biden Inaugural Committee
* 59th Presidential Inauguration website of the District of Columbia government
* 59th Presidential Inauguration website of the United States Army Military District of Washington
* Official video of inauguration from Biden Inaugural Committee
* Presidential Proclamation—"A National Day of Unity"—inaugural proclamation at the White House website, January 20, 2021
* Trump White House Archives—Briefings and Statements
* Trump White House Archives—Remarks

* v
* t
* e

United States presidential inaugurations

18th century|

* Washington (1789)
* Washington (1793)
* J. Adams (1797)

19th century|

* Jefferson (1801)
* Jefferson (1805)
* Madison (1809)
* Madison (1813)
* Monroe (1817)
* Monroe (1821)
* J. Q. Adams (1825)
* Jackson (1829)
* Jackson (1833)
* Van Buren (1837)
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* Tyler (1841)*
* Polk (1845)
* Taylor (1849)
* Fillmore (1850)*
* Pierce (1853)
* Buchanan (1857)
* Lincoln (1861)
* Lincoln (1865)
* A. Johnson (1865)*
* Grant (1869)
* Grant (1873)
* Hayes (1877)
* Garfield (1881)
* Arthur (1881)*
* Cleveland (1885)
* B. Harrison (1889)
* Cleveland (1893)
* McKinley (1897)

20th century|

* McKinley (1901)
* T. Roosevelt (1901)*
* T. Roosevelt (1905)
* Taft (1909)
* Wilson (1913)
* Wilson (1917)
* Harding (1921)
* Coolidge (1923)*
* Coolidge (1925)
* Hoover (1929)
* F. D. Roosevelt (1933)
* F. D. Roosevelt (1937)
* F. D. Roosevelt (1941)
* F. D. Roosevelt (1945)
* Truman (1945)*
* Truman (1949)
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* Eisenhower (1957)
* Kennedy (1961)
* L. B. Johnson (1963)*
* L. B. Johnson (1965)
* Nixon (1969)
* Nixon (1973)
* Ford (1974)*
* Carter (1977)
* Reagan (1981)
* Reagan (1985)
* G. H. W. Bush (1989)
* Clinton (1993)
* Clinton (1997)

21st century|

* G. W. Bush (2001)
* G. W. Bush (2005)
* Obama (2009)
* Obama (2013)
* Trump (2017)
* Biden (2021)
* Trump (2025)

*Intra-term inaugurations

* v
* t
* e

Joe Biden

* 46th President of the United States (2021–2025)
* 47th Vice President of the United States (2009–2017)
* U.S. Senator from Delaware (1973–2009)

Senator|

* Early life and career
* Classified Information Procedures Act
* Counterterrorism Act
* Violence Against Women Act
* Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act

Vice presidency|

* Obama transition
* Task forces
* Gun Violence Prevention
* Protect Students from Sexual Assault
* First Trump transition

Presidency|

| Appointments|

* Cabinet
* Harris vice presidency
* Agriculture
* Commerce
* Defense
* Education
* Energy
* Executive Office appointments
* HHS
* Homeland Security
* HUD
* Interior
* Justice
* U.S. attorneys
* Labor
* State
* ambassadors
* Transportation
* Treasury
* Veterans Affairs
* Judicial appointments
* Jackson
* Supreme Court candidates

|

Legislation|

| 2021|

* American Rescue Plan Act
* Capitol Police Emergency Assistance Act
* Consolidated Appropriations Act
* Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
* National Defense Authorization Act
* RENACER Act
* Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act

|

2022|

* Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
* CHIPS and Science Act

Consolidated Appropriations Act
* Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act
* Merger Filing Fee Modernization Act
* No TikTok on Government Devices Act
* Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
* State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act
* Emmett Till Antilynching Act
* Inflation Reduction Act
* Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act
* PACT Act
* National Defense Authorization Act
* Postal Service Reform Act
* Respect for Marriage Act
* Speak Out Act
* Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act

2023|

* COVID-19 Origin Act
* Fiscal Responsibility Act
* National Defense Authorization Act
* DCA agreement between Finland and the US

2024|

* ADVANCE Act
* Consolidated Appropriations Act
* National Defense Authorization Act
* National Security Act
* Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act

2025|

* Social Security Fairness Act

Policies|

* Cannabis
* COVID-19
* COVID-19 Advisory Board
* White House COVID-19 Response Team
* Economic
* Biden v. Nebraska
* Build Back Better Act
* Build Back Better Plan
* Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund
* Electoral and ethical
* Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court
* Summit for Democracy
* Environmental
* 2021 Leaders Summit on Climate
* Executive Order 13990
* Foreign
* Geneva summit
* 2023 Chinese balloon incident
* AUKUS
* Camp David Principles
* Afghanistan withdrawal
* killing of Ayman al-Zawahiri
* War in Ukraine
* 2022 visit by Volodymyr Zelenskyy
* 2023 visit to Ukraine
* Gaza war
* Ankara prisoner exchange
* Relations with Iran
* Immigration
* A Proclamation on Securing the Border
* Social
* 2021 National Day of Unity
* Space

Timeline|

* Transition
* Inauguration
* security
* Celebrating America
* protests
* First 100 days
* 2021
* Q1
* Q2
* Q3
* Q4
* 2022
* Q1
* Q2
* Q3
* Q4
* 2023
* Q1
* Q2
* Q3
* Q4
* 2024
* Q1
* Q2
* Q3
* Q4
* January 2025
* Second Trump transition

* Classified documents incident
* White House cocaine incident
* Efforts to impeach
* House Oversight Committee investigation
* inquiry
* Executive actions
* proclamations
* Opinion polling
* 2021
* 2022
* 2023
* 2024–2025
* Presidential trips
* international
* 2021
* 2022
* 2023
* 2024–2025
* Death and state funeral of Jimmy Carter

Elections|

| U.S. Senate|

* 1972
* 1978
* 1984
* 1990
* 1996
* 2002
* 2008

|

Vice presidential|

* 2008 campaign
* selection
* convention
* debate
* election
* transition
* 2012 campaign
* convention
* debate
* election

Presidential|

* 1988 campaign
* primaries
* 2008 campaign
* primaries
* debates
* 2020 campaign
* endorsements
* celebrity
* organizations
* Congress
* state and territorial officials
* municipal officials
* primaries
* endorsements
* debates
* Unity Task Forces
* running mate selection
* convention
* debates
* election
* protests
* 2024 campaign
* withdrawal
* Democratic opposition
* primaries
* endorsements
* protest vote movements
* debate

Family|

* Edward Francis Blewitt (great-grandfather)
* Neilia Hunter Biden (first wife)
* Jill Biden (second wife)
* James Biden (brother)
* Valerie Biden Owens (sister)
* Beau Biden (son)
* Hunter Biden (son)
* Ashley Biden (daughter)
* Howard Krein (son-in-law)
* Hallie Olivere Biden (daughter-in-law)
* Kathleen Buhle (former daughter-in-law)
* Melissa Cohen Biden (daughter-in-law)
* Dogs
* Champ
* Major
* Commander
* Cat
* Willow

Writings|

* Promises to Keep
* Promise Me, Dad
* Tomorrow Will Be Different (foreword)

Speeches|

* Inaugural address (2021)
* Joint session of Congress (2021)
* State of the Union Address
* 2022
* 2023
* 2024
* Warsaw speech (2022)
* Battle for the Soul of the Nation speech (2022)
* Farewell address (2025)

Media
depictions|

* Confirmation
* The Choice 2020
* "Intro to Political Science"
* My Son Hunter
* "One Last Ride"
* The Onion's "Diamond Joe"
* Our Cartoon President
* Saturday Night Live parodies
* Spitting Image

Related|

* Age and health concerns
* Awards
* Beau Biden Cancer Moonshot
* Biden Foundation
* Biden Presidential Library
* Biden–Ukraine conspiracy theory
* Buy a shotgun
* Eponyms
* Hunter Biden laptop controversy
* I Did That!
* Let's Go Brandon
* Public image
* Sexual assault allegation
* Situation Room
* Sleepy Joe
* 2019 Trump–Zelenskyy phone call
* 2019 Trump–Ukraine scandal

* ← Donald Trump →

* ← Dick Cheney
* Mike Pence →

* Category

* v
* t
* e

(← 2016) 2020 United States presidential election (2024 →)

Joe Biden, Kamala Harris (D), 306 electoral votes; Donald Trump, Mike Pence (R), 232 electoral votes

* 2020 United States elections
* Polls
* national
* state
* Predictions
* Timeline
* Debates
* Postal voting
* Social media
* Fundraising
* Electors
* Electoral College vote count
* Transition
* inauguration

| Democratic Party
▌IPO · ▌WFP|

* Primaries
* Candidates
* Debates
* Forums
* Results
* Convention (automatic delegates)
* Polls (national · state)
* Positions
* Endorsements
* VP candidate selection
* Unity Task Forces

Candidates|

* Nominee: Joe Biden
* campaign
* endorsements
* celebrity
* organizations
* Congress
* state & territorial officials
* municipal officials
* positions
* VP nominee: Kamala Harris
* positions

Withdrew during primaries
Michael Bennet
Michael Bloomberg

campaign
endorsements
positions
Pete Buttigieg

campaign
endorsements
positions
Tulsi Gabbard

campaign
positions
Amy Klobuchar

campaign
endorsements
positions
Deval Patrick
Bernie Sanders

campaign
endorsements
positions
media coverage
Tom Steyer
Elizabeth Warren

campaign
endorsements
positions
Andrew Yang

campaign
endorsements

Withdrew before primaries
Cory Booker

campaign
endorsements
positions
Steve Bullock
Julian Castro
Bill de Blasio
John Delaney

campaign
positions
Kirsten Gillibrand

positions
Ben Gleib
Mike Gravel

campaign
Kamala Harris

campaign
endorsements
positions
John Hickenlooper
Jay Inslee

campaign
Wayne Messam
Seth Moulton
Richard Ojeda
Beto O'Rourke

campaign
Tim Ryan
Joe Sestak
Eric Swalwell
Marianne Williamson

campaign

Republican Party
▌CPNYS · ▌RTLP|

* Primaries
* Results
* Debates
* Convention
* Polls

Candidates|

Incumbent nominee
Donald Trump

campaign
endorsements

political
non-political
positions
GOP opposition
GOP reactions to fraud claims
Incumbent VP nominee: Mike Pence

Withdrew during primaries
Rocky De La Fuente
Bob Ely
Jack Fellure
Zoltan Istvan
Joe Walsh

campaign
Bill Weld

campaign

Withdrew before primaries
Mark Sanford

campaign

Libertarian Party|

* Primaries
* Results
* Convention

Candidates|

Nominee
Jo Jorgensen

campaign
endorsements
VP nominee: Spike Cohen

Eliminated in balloting
Jim Gray
Adam Kokesh
John McAfee
John Monds
Vermin Supreme

campaign

Withdrew before or during primaries
Max Abramson
Lincoln Chafee
Zoltan Istvan

Formed exploratory committee but did not run
Justin Amash

Green Party
▌LMN · ▌SA · ▌SPUSA|

* Primaries
* Results
* Debates
* Convention

Candidates|

* Nominee: Howie Hawkins
* campaign
* endorsements
* VP nominee: Angela Walker

Withdrew during primaries
Dario Hunter

Other candidates
Jesse Ventura

Constitution Party|

* Primaries
* Nominee: Don Blankenship

Other third-party candidates

Alliance Party
▌AIP · ▌Reform|

* Nominee: Rocky De La Fuente
* VP nominee: Darcy Richardson
* AIP VP nominee: Kanye West

Other candidates
Max Abramson
Phil Collins

American Solidarity Party|

* Nominee: Brian T. Carroll

Other candidates
Joe Schriner

Birthday Party|

* Nominee: Kanye West
* campaign
* positions

Bread and Roses|

* Nominee: Jerome Segal

Party for Socialism & Liberation
▌LUP · ▌PFP|

* Nominee: Gloria La Riva
* VP nominee: Leonard Peltier (withdrew)

* Other candidates: Howie Hawkins

Progressive Party|

* Nominee: Dario Hunter

Prohibition Party|

* Nominee: Phil Collins

Socialist Action|

* Nominee: Jeff Mackler

Socialist Equality Party|

* Nominee: Joseph Kishore

Socialist Workers Party|

* Nominee: Alyson Kennedy

Independent candidates|

Declared
Pete Accetturo
Mark Charles
Brock Pierce (▌IPNY nominee)
Jade Simmons
Joe Schriner

Withdrew
Perry Caravello
Jeremy Gable

Disputes

Attempts to overturn|

* Protests
* during inauguration week
* U.S. Capitol attack
* timeline
* aftermath
* second impeachment of Donald Trump
* trial
* January 6 commission
* reactions
* domestic
* international
* Trump fake electors plot
* Arizona
* Georgia
* Michigan
* Trump–Raffensperger phone call
* Eastman memos

Lawsuits|

* Filed before Election Day
* Filed during or after Election Day
* Arizona
* Georgia
* Michigan
* Nevada
* Pennsylvania
* Wisconsin
* Texas v. Pennsylvania
* Four Seasons Total Landscaping press conference

Controversies|

* Russian interference
* Voting restrictions

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