Who Was the 'Creepy Observer' at Trump's Inauguration?
President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office, Jan. 20, 2025. Photo courtesy of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC). Public domain.
Donald Trump's second inauguration as the 47th President of the United States was a spectacle of personalities, power plays, and unforgettable moments. From the biggest names in politics to celebrities who stole the spotlight, the ceremony offered a front-row seat to the quirky, controversial, and outright fascinating characters who helped make the day as memorable as it was polarizing. Here's a closer look at the notable attendees and their roles in the day's events.
Melania Trump: Anti-Kiss Fashion Choice
First Lady Melania Trump once again turned heads with her choice of fashion. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat that dominated the conversation, her outfit symbolized her signature style. However, it also led to a memorable moment when the hat appeared to block President Trump's attempt at a congratulatory kiss. This interaction sparked online buzz, cementing her as both a style icon and a source of meme-worthy moments.
Mark Zuckerberg: The Creepy Observer
Mark Zuckerberg found himself under the microscope when cameras captured him repeatedly glancing at Lauren Sánchez, fiancée of Jeff Bezos. Social media users called him out for his lack of subtlety, with some commenting that even billionaires have their awkward moments.
JD Vance: A Vice President Under Scrutiny
Ohio Senator JD Vance was sworn in as vice president, marking a new chapter in his career, while President Trump's serious expression during the ceremony left his reaction open to interpretation.
Carrie Underwood: Dealing With Awkward Silence
Country music star Carrie Underwood performed "America the Beautiful," though not without challenges. Technical difficulties left her without a backing track, prompting her to deliver an impromptu a cappella rendition. Her performance captivated the audience, demonstrating her professionalism and talent under pressure.
Elon Musk: The Controversial Billionaire
Elon Musk's animated presence during the ceremony turned heads. From exaggerated clapping to an alleged "Sieg Heil" gesture, Musk's actions sparked both intrigue and controversy. His behavior throughout the event ensured he remained a talking point long after the inauguration concluded.
George W. Bush and Barack Obama: The Humorous Old Guard
Former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama brought a touch of camaraderie to the ceremony. Caught exchanging side comments and smirks, the two appeared to enjoy a few light-hearted moments amidst the formalities, and Obama's quick humor provided levity.
Hillary Clinton: The Laughing Observer
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton attended with poise but couldn't suppress a laugh when Trump referred to the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." Her reaction, subtle but caught on camera, became a highlight of the event for many viewers.
Bernie Sanders: The Stoic Senator
Senator Bernie Sanders reprised his iconic mitten pose from Biden's 2021 inauguration. Sitting cross-legged with an unimpressed expression, Sanders' stance quickly became a viral sensation. His quiet demeanor contrasted with the day's lively energy, offering a touch of humor to the proceedings.
Donald Trump's inauguration brought together a diverse cast of figures, each leaving their own unique mark on the day. From Melania's fashion statement to Musk's antics and Bernie's stoicism, the event offered something for everyone. While the day was politically significant, the personalities present ensured it would be remembered for its human and often humorous moments.
References: Donald Trump's Inauguration: A Collection of Awkward Moments | 14 Big Yikes, Awkward Moments from Trump's Second Inauguration | Inauguration Day 2025 in Memes: Most Hilarious Moments from Trump's Swearing In | Musk's Hand Gesture During Trump Inauguration Festivities Draws Scrutiny
