The Counter Opinion: Inauguration Day reflections
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were sworn in on Jan. 20, 2021 at 12 p.m. We asked our opinion writers about their thoughts on President Biden’s inauguration speech, the absence of former President Donald Trump at the ceremony, the theme of the inauguration and the change that will occur with a change in administrations. Contributing are Justin Thompson, a senior journalism major, Aya Cathey, a freshman journalism major and Charlotte Caldwell, a junior journalism major.
Please note that these views and opinions do not reflect those of The New Political.
What did you think of President Biden’s inauguration speech?
Justin: Biden’s speech was one of optimism and authenticity. He framed our current crises with the weight that they deserve, but reminded Americans that those challenges are surmountable. He repeatedly drew parallels to other times of strife and worry — The Great Depression, the Civil War, 9/11 and more — to remind everyone that the precedents are there, that unity has sprung from national catastrophe before. “Politics need not be a raging fire destroying everything in its path,” he said, prompting Americans to remember a time that used to be, and could be again.
Aya: Biden’s theme of unity was predictable and safe. I thought his speech at the Democratic National Convention was more compelling and sparked a lot more conversation. I would have appreciated it more had he called out the hatred and division we are currently experiencing in the country. If he hopes to have a successful presidency, he cannot be a “president for all.” It is naive of us to continue to serve and coddle white supremacists and domestic terrorists. Over 74 million people voted for Donald Trump. For Biden to stand there and tell us the best course of action is to unite with those who incited years of violence and ignorance is both dangerous and insensitive toward marginalized groups in the U.S.
Charlotte: Biden’s speech did not stand out to me. When watching speeches, I would usually be able to pick a couple memorable lines that I would deem as something that will be talked about for years to come. The only takeaway from this speech, however, is how many different ways Biden could think of to address unity. If I were looking for memorable lines to quote, I would much rather quote them from inaugural poet Amanda Gorman. Biden likes to say that he will fight for every American no matter if they voted for him or not. While this may be true, he never gives specifics on exactly how he is going to accomplish this insurmountable task. This speech was just another one of those hopeless promises. Years into the Biden presidency, staunch Trump supporters will still be fighting for four more years with “Trump 2024” signs in their lawns this time, and no move toward unity will be achieved.
How did you feel about President Trump skipping the inauguration but Vice President Pence still being in attendance?
Justin: It was disappointing, but expected. One of his final tweets made his intentions clear, but it was still jarring to see the Bidens enter the White House alone, hours after Trump and the former first lady had skipped town to sunny Mar-a-Lago. His presence might have forced theatrical coverage of the inauguration from some networks — split screens with Biden grinning and Trump stewing — that the day, and the country, didn’t need. It isn’t like Biden really needed a tour. I do wonder if he will change the locks and the WiFi password, though.
Aya: I thought it was more than appropriate given Trump’s character and actions over the last few months. Being that he is a narcissist, it would have shocked me even more, had he attended the event with a smile on his face. The way his presidency ended was well deserved — quick, cowardly and with little media coverage. I also think it was good for Biden that Pence attended the event because it further reinforced his idea that unity is possible in the months to come.
Charlotte: Pence being in attendance at the inauguration shows his desire to distance himself and move on from Trump after recent events. Pence’s turning point was probably when Trump tried to convince him to break the law and turn the election in his favor while counting the electoral college votes. While Trump continued to make a fool of himself toward the end, Pence came out as looking like the bigger person.
Do you think the inauguration theme of “America United” was a good fit?
Justin: It was the only theme that fit the moment. President Biden spoke about the “diverse coalition” of voters that his campaign built and made it clear that unity would come from its continued growth. It was a clear invitation to moderate Republicans, and a not-so-subtle request that they renew their commitment to sane, respectful and productive politics.
Aya: At his first inaugural address in 1993, Bill Clinton’s theme was change. He spoke about accountability, responsibility and civility amid an economic recession. I believe Biden should have picked an inauguration theme similar to this, considering it would be his first speech addressing the country as a whole. In a global pandemic, people need to be reminded that there are brighter days ahead. More importantly, Americans need to be called out for their selfishness. We have fallen into toxic individualistic patterns, and we are failing. Biden should have said that we cannot survive this pandemic until each American does everything they can to stay safe, stay home and support their fellow community members when they are able.
Charlotte: While it was a good sentiment, a promise like “America united” without any clear solutions is a lofty dream and was not needed at that moment. Although the theme’s goal was to make people feel better about the Capitol riot that happened just a couple days before and other similar events recently, I would have also liked to hear detailed plans on turning around the pandemic.
Do you think things will start to change immediately now that President Biden is officially in office?
Justin: I’m not optimistic. Trump is gone, but the movement he created remains a national force. His latest impeachment trial means that he will continue to dominate the news cycle, and his most passionate supporters will not go quietly from the political scene. As long as people like Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Lauren Boebert and Marjorie Taylor Greene have a say in shaping national policy, change will be slow and elusive.
Aya: Things will not necessarily change, but they will become more stagnant. Without 24 hour access to their savior, Trump supporters will retreat into their everyday lives and hide their Trump memorabilia in their homes. If violence does escalate again, it will be up to the American people to save themselves, not rely on the president. Biden's proposal for combating coronavirus was one of the most comprehensive and expensive plans of any other newly elected president in history. For the next year, he will most likely be focused on vaccine distribution and fulfilling those promises. I think the Trump administration encouraged many people to engage in politics regularly, and that continued pressure is what will drive Biden to do his job well.
Charlotte: If Biden starts to make decisions that are skewed farther left than a moderate would be, then we could see more civil unrest from the right. Trump supporters have already shown that they have the following to mobilize and make change, and this time other Republicans may join in, fueled by their hatred for Biden. As far as unity goes, that shift will definitely not happen overnight — perhaps not even in the four years of Biden’s first term.