Two weeks after a mob attacked the U.S. Capitol, Biden, at 78 years old, was sworn in as the oldest U.S. president by U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts. In his inauguration speech, he emphasized the need for unity in order to overcome challenges and restore America's soul and future. Biden called for an end to the division between red and blue, rural and urban, conservative and liberal, urging people to open their souls instead of hardening their hearts to achieve this goal. The inauguration ceremony was significantly smaller and less festive than usual, with the National Mall filled with U.S. flags instead of supporters. President Biden spoke at the Capitol, where violence erupted on January 6th, emphasizing that the attackers failed to disrupt American democracy. The chaos led to Trump's second impeachment for incitement. Biden reflected on the attempt to silence democracy through violence, stating, "Here we stand, just days after a riotous mob thought they could use violence to silence the will of the people." Jennifer Lopez performed "America the Beautiful" and "This Land Is Your Land" at President Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony. Kamala Harris, daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, made history as the first Black person, first woman, and first Asian American to serve as vice president. She was sworn in by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina member of the court. Trump broke tradition by not meeting with Biden or attending his inauguration, which is typically seen as a peaceful transfer of power. Instead, he highlighted his administration's achievements and promised to return in some capacity before flying to his residence in Florida. Biden took office amidst multiple crises including the pandemic, economic downturn, climate change, and racial inequality. He has promised immediate action, including a series of executive orders on his first day in office. Following a contentious campaign with Trump's unfounded claims of election fraud, Biden adopted a conciliatory tone seldom heard from his predecessor, urging Americans who did not vote for him to give him a chance. In breaking news, Kamala Harris made history as the first woman and first woman of color to be sworn in as vice president of the United States. Biden stated, "I pledge this to you: I will be a president for all Americans." "And I assure you that I will advocate just as fiercely for those who did not support me as I will for those who did." Biden's speech, while focused on domestic issues, also included a message for international audiences, promising to mend strained alliances, lead with strength and trust, and promote peace, progress, and security. He did not specifically address ongoing conflicts with North Korea, Iran, and China. Biden's inauguration marks the culmination of a long career in public service, including decades in the Senate and two terms as vice president under Obama. Despite his experience, he faces challenges that would test even the most seasoned politician. On Trump's final full day in office, the United States marked two somber milestones in the pandemic: 400,000 deaths and 24 million infections, the highest in any country. Many Americans are unemployed due to pandemic-related shutdowns. President Biden has promised to use the full resources of the federal government to address the crisis, with a $1.9 trillion plan focused on enhancing jobless benefits and providing direct cash payments to households. Lady Gaga performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Biden's inauguration. However, the success of Biden's plan hinges on approval from a divided Congress, where Democrats have narrow majorities in both the House and Senate. Harris was set to swear in three new Democratic senators on Wednesday, resulting in a 50-50 split in the chamber with herself as the deciding vote. Biden will quickly move forward from the Trump era by signing 15 executive actions on various issues, such as the pandemic, the economy, and climate change. These actions will include requiring masks on federal property, rejoining the Paris climate accord, and lifting Trump's travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries. Despite Biden's ambitious plans for his first 100 days, the Senate may be preoccupied with Trump's impending impeachment trial, which will proceed even though he is no longer in office. This trial could be a test of Biden's commitment to promoting bipartisanship in Washington. Trump granted over 140 pardons and commutations in the last moments of his presidency. Among those pardoned was his former political adviser, Steve Bannon, who is facing charges for allegedly defrauding Trump supporters in a fundraising scheme for a border wall. Despite speculation, Trump did not pardon himself or his family members.