President Biden praises Americans for rising to the challenge and reclaiming democracy.
The new president Joe Biden wrapped up his inaugural address at 12:13 after 21 minutes.
President Biden praised Americans for rising to the challenge and reclaiming democracy. He mentioned the attempt to undo it at that exact location two weeks ago. He renewed his campaign goals of overcoming the pandemic, bringing racial justice, and fighting climate change in his Inaugural address.
Biden called for unity while admitting that the goal might seem elusive right now and criticized those who have stoked anger and division, asking those who opposed him to hear him out.
“My fellow Americans, we have to be different than this. We have to be better than this,” Biden said at the US Capitol.
“I will be president for all Americans. I will fight as hard for those who did not support me as those who did,” he stated.
Biden called out those who lie for political power and profit.
“There is truth, and there are lies,” he said.
On foreign policy, Biden said he would rebuild the alliances frayed over the past four years.
“We can make America once again the leading force of good in the world.”
“America has been tested and has come out stronger for it.”
He led a moment of silence for the 400,000 Americans who have died of COVID-19 and promised not to lie to Americans.
“I give you my word: I will always level with you,” Biden offered his promise to America, divided.