Donald Trump’s latest tenure as President of the United States has marked a radical departure from traditional presidential norms, particularly in how he conducts the official business of the White House. Rather than a solemn or bureaucratic approach, Trump is transforming these moments into performances, captivating his audience and blurring the lines between governance and entertainment. This article delves into his inaugural day activities and explores the implications of this approach on both his administration and the wider political discourse.
Setting the Stage: A Show of Force
On January 20, 2021, mere hours after being sworn in as the 47th president, Trump staged an event akin to a rock concert at the Capital One Arena in Washington D.C. Within this unconventional setting, he signed numerous executive orders, a process typically reserved for the serene atmosphere of the Oval Office. The event was infused with theatricality—a rallying point for his supporters who cheered him on as he took decisive action. By choosing to flaunt this executive signatory power in front of a lively audience, Trump effectively turned an ordinary administrative task into a populist spectacle.
The WWE Effect: Politics Meets Entertainment
In a striking move reminiscent of athletic entertainment, Trump tossed the pens used to sign the executive orders into the crowd. This act echoed the sporting tradition of hurling memorabilia to fans, suggesting that Trump sees his supporters not just as constituents but as an integral part of the show. This dramatization raises fundamental questions about the relationship between politics and performance. Trump’s administration blurs the lines, treating political governance as a theatrical