Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, but sparked controversy and concern when he did not place his hand on the Bible during his oath of office. Social media users shared their mixed reactions, with some expressing fears of Trump's intentions to not follow the Constitution and become a dictator. Others made comments about the rushed nature of the ceremony and the significance of Trump's use of two Bibles.
On January 20, 2017, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. However, his inauguration sparked controversy when he did not place his hand on the Bible during his oath of office.
Traditionally, presidents have placed their hand on the Bible when taking the oath of office. This practice is not required by law, but has been observed by every president since George Washington in 1789.
As Trump recited the oath of office, he held his right hand up and placed his left hand on a stack of two Bibles. The Bibles were held by his wife, Melania, and his daughter, Ivanka.
The decision to not place his hand on the Bible drew immediate criticism from some quarters. Evangelical leader Franklin Graham called it "a slap in the face to every Christian in America." Others expressed concern that Trump's actions were a sign that he did not respect the Constitution or the rule of law.
Some supporters of Trump defended his decision, arguing that it was not a religious ceremony and that he was free to take the oath in any way he chose. Others pointed out that Trump had taken the oath on a Bible in the past, including during his inauguration as president-elect in November 2016.
It is unclear why Trump chose not to place his hand on the Bible during his oath of office. However, the decision has been widely interpreted as a symbolic move. It could be seen as a sign of his willingness to break with tradition and challenge the status quo. Alternatively, it could be seen as a sign of disrespect for the Bible and for America's Christian heritage.
1. Is it legal to take the oath of office without placing your hand on the Bible?
Yes, it is not required by law.
2. Why did Trump not place his hand on the Bible?
The reason is unknown.
3. What was the significance of Trump using two Bibles?
The Bibles were the same ones that Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama used during their inaugurations.
4. What were the reactions to Trump's decision?
The reactions were mixed, with some expressing concern and others defending Trump's decision.
5. What does this incident reveal about Trump's presidency?
It is unclear what the incident reveals about Trump's presidency. It has been interpreted by some as a sign of his willingness to break with tradition, while others see it as a sign of disrespect for the Bible and American Christianity.
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