The inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States took place on January 20th, 2021 before noon, marking the commencement of the four-year term of Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President  Trump left the White House for the last time and is said to have left a note for Biden.  The Inauguration stage was set, encircled by soldiers and barriers.  

“Today, on this January day, my whole soul is in this. Bringing America together uniting our people, uniting our nation. And I ask every American to join me in this cause.” – Biden 

Costs? 

Compared to past inaugurations, the drastic reduction in crowd size at Biden’s inauguration was expected to reduce costs. Typically presidential inaugurations cost about US$100 million.  In September 2020, prior to implementing attendance restrictions, costs were estimated to exceed $44.9 million. 

Security and Counterterrorism Efforts:

On this occasion, the week preceding the inauguration was included in preparations after the storming of the United States Capitol on January 6th.  The Secret Service, which provides additional security to events involving high-profile public officials, released a statement asserting that the ceremony would be safe. 

“We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, rural versus urban, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts.” – Biden