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Joe Biden became the 46th president of the United States, vowing a "new day" for the United States after four years of tumult under Donald Trump who in an extraordinary final act snubbed the inauguration. He vowed to defeat political extremism and domestic terror in his first speech as US president.
After officially entering the White House after swearing in as the President, Biden signed a raft of executive orders to launch his administration Wednesday, including a decision to rejoin the Paris climate accord, reported news agency AFP.
The US faces "a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront, and we will defeat," he said in his inaugural address on the steps of the US Capitol.
Joe Biden arrived at the White House, walking the last block with members of his family through streets that were eerily empty because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Former California senator Kamala Harris was sworn in as vice president of the United States, the first woman ever to hold the post.
Two weeks to the day after Trump supporters violently rampaged at the US Capitol to overturn the election results, Joe Biden took the oath on the same very steps alongside Kamala Harris, who was sworn in moments earlier as the first woman vice president. Joe Biden, putting his hand on a family Bible, repeated after Chief Justice John Roberts the presidential oath -- that he will "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
Kamala Harris, 56, took the oath of office from Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor in a ceremony at the US Capitol. She is the first Black woman and the first woman of South Asian descent to become US vice president.
US President Donald Trump left the White House for the final time, heading by helicopter to a nearby military base where he will fly to Florida, skipping the inauguration of successor Joe Biden in an extraordinary break with tradition. Trump, 74, and First Lady Melania Trump walked a short red carpet and boarded Marine One on the White House lawn on a sunny but chilly day in Washington for the short flight to Joint Base Andrews where he will board Air Force One.
In brief remarks to reporters, Trump said it had been an "amazing four years" and the "honor of a lifetime." He said: "I just want to say goodbye."
Mr Biden plans to kick off his new administration Wednesday with orders to restore the United States to the Paris climate accord and the World Health Organization, aides said. He will sign 17 orders and actions hours after being sworn in as US leader to break from policies of departing President Donald Trump and set new paths on immigration, the environment, fighting Covid-19 and the economy, they said.
Here are the Highlights from Joe Biden-Kamala Harris' inauguration day:
Jan 21, 2021 10:09 (IST)
"We Will Rise Up": Kamala Harris' First Remarks As US Vice President
In her first remarks to the nation as US Vice President, Kamala Harris has highlighted "American aspiration" and underlined that President Joe Biden has summoned the people to look beyond crisis and aspire to unite. Kamala Harris, 56, made history on Wednesday when she was sworn in as the first female, first black and first Asian-American US vice-president. The former senator was sworn in just before Biden took the oath of office to become the 46th US President.
Jan 21, 2021 08:32 (IST)
Kamala Harris' Historic Inauguration Attire Designed By 2 Black Designers
Kamala Harris on Wednesday opted to wear a dress designed by two Black designers for her historic inauguration as the US Vice-president. Her husband and the Second Gentleman, Doug Emhoff was wearing a Ralph Lauren suit. In fact, the President-elect Joe Biden was also wearing a navy suit and navy overcoat by the American designer. Read here
Jan 21, 2021 07:56 (IST)
"Feels Like Going Home...": Joe Biden's Surreal Walk To White House
Joe Biden held his wife Jill's hand as they strode up their new home's driveway Wednesday -- which was the only normal thing about the day he became the president of the United States.
Jan 21, 2021 06:55 (IST)
Joe Biden To Roll Back Trump Policies, Remake US Role In Climate Crisis
President Joe Biden committed the United States to rejoining the Paris climate accord, blocked an oil pipeline project and froze Arctic drilling in a raft of executive orders signed hours after taking office Wednesday. But for the Democrat who has pledged to roll back four years of environmental harm done by his predecessor Donald Trump, that's just the start. Experts say that Biden will have to rebuild the credibility the US lost in the eyes of the international community, by setting concrete goals for emissions reductions on the path to net zero by 2050.
Jan 21, 2021 06:39 (IST)
Donald Trump "Wrote A Very Generous Letter": Joe Biden
US President Joe Biden said Wednesday that outgoing president Donald Trump had left him a "very generous" letter in the Oval Office, in keeping with tradition. Read Here
Jan 21, 2021 05:53 (IST)
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Jan 21, 2021 05:42 (IST)
We're not going to walk away, we're going to take responsibility: US President Joe Biden
Jan 21, 2021 04:51 (IST)
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Jan 21, 2021 04:12 (IST)
Warmly Welcom Biden To Re-Enter Paris Agreement: UN Chief Calls On US President To Propose New Climate Target
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today welcomed US President Joe Biden's decision to rejoin the Paris climate accord, but called on him to adopt an "ambitious" plan to fight global warming, reported news agency AFP. "I warmly welcome President Biden's steps to re-enter the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and join the growing coalition of governments, cities, states, businesses and people taking ambitious action to confront the climate crisis," Guterres said in a statement.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today welcomed US President Joe Biden's decision to rejoin the Paris climate accord, but called on him to adopt an "ambitious" plan to fight global warming, reported news agency AFP. "I warmly welcome President Biden's steps to re-enter the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and join the growing coalition of governments, cities, states, businesses and people taking ambitious action to confront the climate crisis," Guterres said in a statement.
Jan 21, 2021 04:11 (IST)
Within hours of being sworn in as president on Wednesday, Joe Biden sent an immigration bill to lawmakers that would open a path to citizenship for millions of immigrants living in the United States unlawfully, a sharp contrast to the policies of former President Donald Trump.
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Jan 21, 2021 04:11 (IST)
President Joe Biden said Wednesday that outgoing president Donald Trump had left him a "very generous" letter in the Oval Office, in keeping with tradition.
Jan 21, 2021 04:00 (IST)
Two Georgia Democrats sworn in
Two Georgia Democrats were sworn in as the newest members of the US Senate on Wednesday, handing their party control of the upper chamber just hours after President Joe Biden took office.
With Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock -- who ousted two Republicans in a pair of January 5 run-offs -- being formally seated, the body now stands deadlocked at 50-50.
That means Democrats control the chamber because new Vice President Kamala Harris acts as the tie-breaking vote.
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Jan 21, 2021 03:50 (IST)
Jan 21, 2021 03:47 (IST)
Biden signs series of orders, including to rejoin Paris climate
US President Joe Biden signed a raft of executive orders to launch his administration Wednesday, including a decision to rejoin the Paris climate accord.
The orders were aimed at reversing decisions by his predecessor Donald Trump, reversing the process of leaving the World Health Organization, ending the ban on entries from mostly Muslim-majority countries, bolstering environmental protections and strengthening the fight against Covid-19.
"We are going to combat climate change in a way we have not done so far," Biden said.
Jan 21, 2021 03:25 (IST)
Brazilian President congratulates Joe Biden
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro congratulated Joe Biden on his inauguration as US president after spending weeks ignoring his election victory.
The right-wing leader of South America's largest economy -- dubbed the "Trump of the Tropics" for his emulation of Donald Trump -- sent his best wishes on Twitter.
"I congratulate Joe Biden, 46th president of the United States. The relationship between Brazil and the United States is old, solid and founded on high values, such as the defense of democracy and individual freedoms," tweeted Bolsonaro. "I remain engaged and ready to work for the prosperity of our nations and the well-being of our citizens."
Jan 21, 2021 02:54 (IST)
Jan 21, 2021 02:31 (IST)
Parade Across America is virtually being hosted by actor, director Tony Goldwyn
Jan 21, 2021 02:22 (IST)
US President Joe Biden and family reach White House
US President Joe Biden arrived at the White House, walking the last block with members of his family through streets that were eerily empty because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Under tight security, military bands and an escort of police motorcycles led the presidential motorcade to the White House down Pennsylvania Avenue.
Joe Biden was riding in a presidential limousine with the license plate "46" flanked by six mask-wearing Secret Service agents before emerging to walk the final steps to the White House.
Joe Biden's arrival was followed shortly afterwards by that of Kamala Harris, the first woman vice president of the United States.
Jan 21, 2021 02:16 (IST)
Jan 21, 2021 02:14 (IST)
"Look forward to a new chapter": German Chancellor after Joe Biden takes oath
German Chancellor Angela Merkel congratulated new US President Joe Biden, saying she looked forward to a "new chapter" in German-US relations.
"Warmest congratulations on your inauguration, Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris - a true celebration of American democracy," Ms Merkel was quoted as saying in a tweet posted by her spokesman Steffen Seibert.
"I look forward to a new chapter of German-American friendship and cooperation," she added.
Jan 21, 2021 01:54 (IST)
President Joe Biden has said he will return the United States to the Paris climate accord as soon as he takes office, and has vowed to block an oil pipeline project in a move that threatens to strain ties with Canada.
Jan 21, 2021 01:30 (IST)
Joe Biden, Kamala Harris pay respects to US military war dead
US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday to pay their respects to US military war dead at the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier."
Joe Biden and Kamala Harris presented a wreath at the tomb in a somber ceremony at the cemetery outside Washington attended by former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama.
Joe Biden, who was sworn in as the 46th US president just hours earlier, saluted as a service member played the haunting notes of "Taps."
Jan 21, 2021 01:11 (IST)
French President welcomes Joe Biden back to Paris climate accord
French President Emmanuel Macron lauded new US President Joe Biden's decision to return to the Paris climate accord, telling him "welcome back" in a congratulatory message after his inauguration.
"Best wishes on this most significant day for the American people!" Macron tweeted in English.
"We are together. We will be stronger to face the challenges of our time. Stronger to build our future. Stronger to protect our planet. Welcome back to the Paris Agreement!"
Jan 21, 2021 00:49 (IST)
Pope calls on Joe Biden to foster "reconciliation and peace"
Pope Francis urged the US new president Joe Biden to promote "reconciliation and peace" around the world following his inauguration.
He offered Biden, the second Roman Catholic to become US president after John F Kennedy, his "cordial good wishes and the assurance of my prayers" in the task ahead.
"Under your leadership, may the American people continue to draw strength from the lofty political, ethical and religious values that have inspired the nation since its founding," he said.
"At a time when the grave crises facing our human family call for far-sighted and united responses, I pray that your decisions will be guided by a concern for building a society marked by authentic justice and freedom," the pope said in a statement.
Jan 21, 2021 00:36 (IST)
We expect Joe Biden's administration to return to law and to commitments: Iran president
Iran President Hassan Rouhani hailed the departure of "tyrant" Donald Trump, Tehran having repeatedly called on US to lift sanctions imposed over its nuclear drive.
"We expect (the Joe Biden administration) to return to law and to commitments, and try in the next four years, if they can, to remove the stains of the past four years," said Hassan Rouhani.
Joe Biden's administration wants the US back in the landmark Iran nuclear accord, from which Trump withdrew, provided Tehran returns to strict compliance.
Jan 21, 2021 00:23 (IST)
"New chapter of their democracy": Rahul Gandhi
Jan 20, 2021 23:50 (IST)
Now the real work begins: Joe Biden
Jan 20, 2021 23:40 (IST)
Canada PM Justin Trudeau congratulates Joe Biden
Jan 20, 2021 23:30 (IST)
Russia urges "more constructive" approach from Joe Biden on key arms treaty
Russia urged US President Joe Biden's new administration to take a "more constructive" approach in talks over the extension of the New START treaty, Washington's last arms reduction pact with Moscow.
"We expect that the new US administration will take a more constructive approach in its dialogue with us," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. "We are ready for such work on principles of equal rights and taking mutual interests into account."
Jan 20, 2021 23:24 (IST)
"No time to waste": Joe Biden
Jan 20, 2021 23:16 (IST)
PM Modi congratulates Kamala Harris
"It is a historic occasion. Looking forward to interacting with her to make India-USA relations more robust..." PM Modi tweeted.
"It is a historic occasion. Looking forward to interacting with her to make India-USA relations more robust..." PM Modi tweeted.
Jan 20, 2021 23:05 (IST)
Watch: Joe Biden takes oath
Watch the moment earlier when Joe Biden said his oath of office.
Watch the moment earlier when Joe Biden said his oath of office.
Jan 20, 2021 23:02 (IST)
Ready to serve: US Vice President Kamala Harris
Jan 20, 2021 22:59 (IST)
Israel PM Netanyahu asks Joe Biden to "strengthen" US-Israel alliance
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged new US President Joe Biden to "strengthen" a long-standing alliance between the two countries, partly in order to confront the "threat" posed by Iran.
"I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the US-Israel alliance, to continue expanding peace between Israel and the Arab world and to confront common challenges, chief among them the threat posed by Iran," PM Netanyahu said in a video congratulating Joe Biden.
Jan 20, 2021 22:53 (IST)
UK PM Boris Johnson congratulates Joe Biden
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson congratulated new US President Joe Biden following his inauguration, saying he "looks forward" to working with him on "issues that matter to us all".
"Congratulations to Joe Biden on being sworn in as President of the United States and to Kamala Harris on her historic inauguration," Johnson tweeted.
"America's leadership is vital on the issues that matter to us all, from climate change to COVID, and I look forward to working with President Biden."
Jan 20, 2021 22:47 (IST)
Twitter bio of Kamala Harris changes
Kamala Harris' twitter bio was changed from US vice president elect to Vice President of the United States.
Kamala Harris' twitter bio was changed from US vice president elect to Vice President of the United States.
Jan 20, 2021 22:45 (IST)
Joe Biden leads moment of silent prayer for coronavirus victims
New US President Joe Biden led a moment of silence for the 400,000 American victims of the coronavirus, warning the country may be entering the deadliest phase of the pandemic.
"We need all our strength to persevere through this dark winter. We're entering what may be the toughest and deadliest period of the virus," Joe Biden said in his inaugural address.
Jan 20, 2021 22:44 (IST)
"This is democracy's day": Joe Biden
US President Joe Biden called for "unity" moments after his inauguration in Washington on Wednesday, warning of the challenges ahead as he takes on multiple crises.
"This is America's day, this is democracy's day. A day of history and hope," he said on the steps of the US Capitol after his swearing-in.
But as the US confronts the deadly coronavirus and deep political divisions he warned that to overcome its challenges will require "so much more than words, it will require the most elusive of all things in a democracy, unity."
Jan 20, 2021 22:42 (IST)
Joe Biden vows to "defeat" domestic terror, white supremacy
US President Joe Biden vowed to defeat political extremism and domestic terror in his first speech as US president. The United States faces "a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront, and we will defeat," he said in his inaugural address on the steps of the US Capitol.
US President Joe Biden vowed to defeat political extremism and domestic terror in his first speech as US president. The United States faces "a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront, and we will defeat," he said in his inaugural address on the steps of the US Capitol.
Jan 20, 2021 22:38 (IST)
PM Modi says he looks forward to working with US President Joe Biden
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to congratulate Joe Biden after his swearing-in as the new US President. "My warmest congratulations to Joe Biden on his assumption of office as President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to strengthen India-US strategic partnership."
Jan 20, 2021 22:30 (IST)
Inauguration a day of "history and hope": Joe Biden
New US President Joe Biden, after his swearing-in ceremony, said inauguration is a day of "history and hope."
This is democracy's day, Joe Biden added.
Jan 20, 2021 22:19 (IST)
Joe Biden takes oath as new US President
Joe Biden takes oath as the new US President in front of US Supreme Court chief justice John Roberts at the US Capitol.
Joe Biden takes oath as the new US President in front of US Supreme Court chief justice John Roberts at the US Capitol.
Jan 20, 2021 22:16 (IST)
Singer Jennifer Lopez performs at inauguration
Jennifer Lopez took the stage, performing Woody Guthrie's classic "This Land Is Your Land", a tune with socialist leanings the folk legend is said to have written in response to the more nationalistic "God Bless America."
Bronx-raised with Puerto Rican roots, Lopez finished with "America The Beautiful", adding in a line of Spanish: "Siempre con libertad y justicia para todos" ("Liberty and justice for all, always").
Sporting a white pantsuit ensemble with a lace ruffle collar, reportedly Chanel, Lopez also shouted "Let's get loud!" during her performance, a nod to her turn-of-the-millennium signature hit, delighting social media.
Jan 20, 2021 22:12 (IST)
Kamala Harris takes oath as US Vice President
Former California senator Kamala Harris was sworn in as vice president of the United States on Wednesday, the first woman ever to hold the post. Ms Harris, 56, took the oath of office from Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor in a ceremony at the US Capitol.
She is the first Black woman and the first woman of South Asian descent to become US vice president.
Jan 20, 2021 22:07 (IST)
Watch: Lady Gaga sings US national anthem during inauguration ceremony
Lady Gaga launched Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony by belting out a classic rendition of the US national anthem, donning a billowing ball gown and enormous dove brooch.
Lady Gaga launched Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony by belting out a classic rendition of the US national anthem, donning a billowing ball gown and enormous dove brooch.
The long-sleeved gown, reportedly Schiaparelli, featured a fitted navy drop-waist bodice with a demure mock neck collar, a look completed with a voluminous scarlet skirt that ensured she kept her Covid-friendly distance.
"My intention is to acknowledge our past, be healing for our present, and passionate for a future where we work together lovingly. I will sing to the hearts of all people who live on this land," Gaga tweeted ahead of her performance.
Jan 20, 2021 22:06 (IST)
Kamala Harris on Wednesday opted to wear a dress designed by two Black designers for her historic inauguration as the US Vice-president.
Jan 20, 2021 21:54 (IST)
"For the people - always", tweets Kamala Harris
Jan 20, 2021 21:53 (IST)
Kamala Harris, husband Doug Emhoff greet attendees
Jan 20, 2021 21:48 (IST)
More leaders arrive at US Capitol
Leaders who have arrived at the US Capitol include former US President Bill Clinton with former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as former President George W Bush and Laura Bush.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and former Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao also reached the US Capitol for the inauguration ceremony.
Former US President Barack Obama and Former US First Lady Michelle Obama also reached for the inauguration of Joe Biden.
Jan 20, 2021 21:41 (IST)
Vice President Mike Pence arrives at the US Capitol
Jan 20, 2021 21:39 (IST)
US leaders greet each other with fist bumps
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, US leaders greeted each other through fist bumps rather than handshakes at the US Capitol as they arrived for the inauguration ceremony.
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, US leaders greeted each other through fist bumps rather than handshakes at the US Capitol as they arrived for the inauguration ceremony.
Jan 20, 2021 21:20 (IST)
"I love you, Jilly": Joe Biden tweets video with wife minutes ahead of inauguration
Jan 20, 2021 21:12 (IST)
"Today, we begin anew": Joe Biden
Guests are beginning to arrive at the US Capitol for the inauguration ceremonies.
Among those seen making their way in were former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as Georgia Senator-elect Jon Ossoff.
Jan 20, 2021 21:03 (IST)
Joe Biden arrives at US Capitol for inauguration as 46th president
Joe Biden along with his deputy Kamala Harris has arrived at the US Capitol for inauguration.
Joe Biden along with his deputy Kamala Harris has arrived at the US Capitol for inauguration.
Jan 20, 2021 20:43 (IST)
Joe Biden, Kamala Harris to be sworn in soon
Jan 20, 2021 20:34 (IST)
Kamala Harris tweets about women in her life
Jan 20, 2021 20:24 (IST)
"This is your time": Barack Obama to Joe Biden
Jan 20, 2021 20:17 (IST)
Donald Trump left a letter for Joe Biden: Spokesman
US President Donald Trump left a letter to his successor Joe Biden before leaving the White House, spokesman Judd Deere told news agency AFP minutes after his departure.
Trump, who refused to accept his defeat for more than two months, never congratulated Joe Biden on his victory.
"We are just temporary occupants of this office," Barack Obama wrote in his own note to Trump four years ago, left in the Oval Office in line with presidential tradition. "That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions... that our forebears fought and bled for. Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them," he added.
Jan 20, 2021 20:07 (IST)
Donald Trump departs Washington for Florida on Air Force One
US President Donald Trump left Washington on Air Force One three hours ahead of the inauguration of his successor, Joe Biden. Trump, 74, will be at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida when Biden is sworn in at noon (1700 GMT).
He is the first president in more than 150 years to snub the inauguration of his successor.
Jan 20, 2021 19:56 (IST)
Ahead of inauguration, Joe Biden says: "It's a new day in America"
Joe Biden said it was "a new day in America" on Wednesday as he prepared to become the 46th president of the United States at an inauguration ceremony in Washington. "It's a new day in America," Mr Biden said on Twitter only minutes after outgoing President Donald Trump flew out of Washington at the end of a tumultuous four-year presidency.
Joe Biden said it was "a new day in America" on Wednesday as he prepared to become the 46th president of the United States at an inauguration ceremony in Washington. "It's a new day in America," Mr Biden said on Twitter only minutes after outgoing President Donald Trump flew out of Washington at the end of a tumultuous four-year presidency.
Jan 20, 2021 19:51 (IST)
Joe Biden, family attend mass with Republican, Democratic Congress leaders
US President-elect Joe Biden attended a mass at St Matthew's Cathedral in Washington, DC, accompanied by Democratic and Republican leaders of Congress in a symbol of unity ahead of his inauguration.
The future 46th President of the United States was accompanied by his wife Jill Biden, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, as well as Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell and House leader Kevin McCarthy.
Jan 20, 2021 19:43 (IST)
"So nice to see": Greta Thunberg on Trump's departure from White House
Jan 20, 2021 19:35 (IST)
New Snapchat filter introduced for Joe Biden's inauguration day: Report
Joe Biden's team will dispatch a Snapchat filter that transports users to the Capitol to participate from home. When the debut lens is selected in the Snapchat reel, users can take a selfie before the Capitol as confetti tumbles from above.
On the off chance that snap chatters flip the camera around, they will be welcomed by a Joe Biden Jumbotron before a horde of ceremonial participants whose appearances will be the selfies sent in by the supporters online.
Jan 20, 2021 19:21 (IST)
Donald Trump, in departure remarks, says he "will be back in some form"
US President Donald Trump said he will be "back in some form" before boarding Air Force One for Florida ahead of the inauguration of his successor, Joe Biden.
"This has been an incredible four years," Trump said in brief remarks to staff, supporters and members of his family gathered at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington.
"We've accomplished so much together," he said. "I will always fight for you. We will be back in some form."
Jan 20, 2021 19:16 (IST)
Donald Trump wishes new administration "great luck and great success"
Jan 20, 2021 19:12 (IST)
Donald Trump says it's been "an incredible four years"
Jan 20, 2021 19:11 (IST)
Our job statistics were best-ever, incredible: Donald Trump
Jan 20, 2021 19:06 (IST)
Trump revokes ethics ban on aides as he exits Washington
The restrictions, imposed soon after he took office in 2017, had targeted the kind of insider culture the Republican Trump had campaigned against and blocked the kind of lucrative gigs that he had said makes politicians beholden to business interests instead of everyday Americans, Reuters reported.
Outgoing US President Donald Trump, who won the White House in part by promising to "drain the swamp" of Washington political maneuvering, on Wednesday revoked his executive order barring aides and other administration officials from lobbying.
The restrictions, imposed soon after he took office in 2017, had targeted the kind of insider culture the Republican Trump had campaigned against and blocked the kind of lucrative gigs that he had said makes politicians beholden to business interests instead of everyday Americans, Reuters reported.
Jan 20, 2021 18:50 (IST)
Trump Leaves White House, Skipping Biden Inauguration
US President Donald Trump left the White House for the final time on Wednesday, heading by helicopter to a nearby military base where he will fly to Florida, skipping the inauguration of successor Joe Biden in an extraordinary break with tradition.
Trump, 74, and First Lady Melania Trump walked a short red carpet and boarded Marine One on the White House lawn on a sunny but chilly day in Washington for the short flight to Joint Base Andrews where he will board Air Force One.
Trump will be at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida when Biden is sworn in at noon (1700 GMT) as the 46th president of the United States.
Jan 20, 2021 18:42 (IST)
Europe Has A "Friend" In White House: European Council Ahead Of Joe Biden's Inauguration
The European Union's top officials expressed relief that they would soon have a friend in the White House as Joe Biden replaces Donald Trump.
Charles Michel, president of the European Council, said the moment should be seized to form a new "founding pact" between democratic powers.
Jan 20, 2021 18:37 (IST)
Japanese Trump Supporters Rally In Tokyo Ahead Of Biden's Inauguration
About 120 people joined the march in central Tokyo, with participants waving American and Japanese flags and holding banners claiming Trump was "the true winner" of the November 3 election.
"We wanted to show that many people in Japan are supporting President Trump," rally organiser Naota Kobayashi told Reuters.
A small group of Japanese fans of Donald Trump took to the streets of Tokyo on Wednesday, shouting support for the outgoing United States president hours before his successor Joe Biden is sworn into office.
About 120 people joined the march in central Tokyo, with participants waving American and Japanese flags and holding banners claiming Trump was "the true winner" of the November 3 election.
"We wanted to show that many people in Japan are supporting President Trump," rally organiser Naota Kobayashi told Reuters.
Jan 20, 2021 18:27 (IST)
President-elect Joe Biden plans to begin immediately unwinding President Donald Trump's policies on immigration, climate and other issues on Wednesday with at least 15 executive actions, including moves to reverse U.S. withdrawals from the Paris Agreement and the World Health Organization, and stop construction of a border wall.
Jan 20, 2021 18:16 (IST)
British Prime Minister Says He's Looking Forward To Working With Biden
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday he looked forward to working with Joe Biden on their "shared priorities", just hours before Mr Biden is inaugurated as the 46th president of the United States.
"As I said when I spoke with him on his election as President, I look forward to working with him, and with his new administration, strengthening the partnership between our countries and working on our shared priorities: from tackling climate change, building back better from the pandemic and strengthening our Transatlantic security," Mr Johnson said in parliament
Jan 20, 2021 15:51 (IST)
US President-elect Joe Biden plans to kick off his new administration Wednesday with orders to restore the United States to the Paris climate accord and the World Health Organization, aides said.
Jan 20, 2021 15:36 (IST)
Biden to end Trump's 'Muslim travel ban' on first day: aides (AFP)
Jan 20, 2021 15:36 (IST)
Biden to sign order to rejoin Paris climate deal on first day: aides (AFP)
Jan 20, 2021 15:35 (IST)
Biden to halt Trump border wall construction in first-day order: aides (AFP)
Jan 20, 2021 15:34 (IST)
China dismisses Pompeo Uighur genocide claim as 'outrageous lies'
China on Wednesday dismissed Washington's allegation that Beijing was committing genocide against Uighurs and other minorities as "outrageous lies" and "poison" in a rancourous epilogue to a combative period in relations between the superpowers.
Under the administration of outgoing President Donald Trump, the US has butted heads with China over trade, security, technology, the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic and rights from Hong Kong to Xinjiang, home to the Uighur minority.
In the dying days of Trump's administration, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo launched his final broadsides against China.
America's top diplomat said Beijing's sweeping incarceration of mostly Muslim minorities in the far western Xinjiang region amounted to genocide and crimes against humanity.
"We are witnessing the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese party-state," Pompeo said on Tuesday.
In a rebuttal typifying the strained language between the rivals, a foreign ministry spokeswoman in Beijing hit back on Wednesday, accusing Pompeo of fabricating "sensational false propositions" throughout his term in office.
Genocide had "never happened in the past, is not happening now and will never happen in China," spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in her last public joust with Pompeo, a regular target of the ministry's anger throughout the Trump administration.
China on Wednesday dismissed Washington's allegation that Beijing was committing genocide against Uighurs and other minorities as "outrageous lies" and "poison" in a rancourous epilogue to a combative period in relations between the superpowers.
Under the administration of outgoing President Donald Trump, the US has butted heads with China over trade, security, technology, the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic and rights from Hong Kong to Xinjiang, home to the Uighur minority.
In the dying days of Trump's administration, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo launched his final broadsides against China.
America's top diplomat said Beijing's sweeping incarceration of mostly Muslim minorities in the far western Xinjiang region amounted to genocide and crimes against humanity.
"We are witnessing the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese party-state," Pompeo said on Tuesday.
In a rebuttal typifying the strained language between the rivals, a foreign ministry spokeswoman in Beijing hit back on Wednesday, accusing Pompeo of fabricating "sensational false propositions" throughout his term in office.
Genocide had "never happened in the past, is not happening now and will never happen in China," spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in her last public joust with Pompeo, a regular target of the ministry's anger throughout the Trump administration.
Jan 20, 2021 15:34 (IST)
Joe Biden to issue 17 orders to kick off new administration: aides (AFP)
Jan 20, 2021 15:05 (IST)
Hours before Kamala Harris's historic inauguration as US Vice President, her ancestral village in Tamil Nadu celebrated with firecrackers, sweets and customized calendars of their most famous face.
Jan 20, 2021 14:51 (IST)
A day before she was to take charge as the 49th Vice-President of the United States of America, Kamala Harris sent out a message of "unity" and "togetherness" to a country still reeling under the twin blows of the Covid-19 pandemic and unprecedented political turmoil.
Jan 20, 2021 14:07 (IST)
Iran's President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday hailed the departure of "tyrant" US counterpart Donald Trump, who is due to leave office later in the day making way for President-elect Joe Biden.
Jan 20, 2021 13:07 (IST)
Joe Biden to be sworn in as 46th US president, ending Trump era
Thirty-four years after first seeking the job, Joe Biden will be sworn in as the 46th US president Wednesday, drawing a curtain on the most tumultuous administration of modern times and charting a new course to tackle Covid-19 and unite a splintered nation.
Outgoing President Donald Trump entered the White House four years ago as a brash billionaire outsider, but he is being ousted by a polar opposite whose devotion to service, deep knowledge of Washington, and personal scars will unquestionably set a different tone.
Biden, a 78-year-old former vice president and longtime senator, will take the oath of office at noon (1700 GMT) on the US Capitol's West front, the very spot where pro-Trump rioters clashed with police two weeks ago before storming Congress in a deadly insurrection.
While a transition of power will occur much as it has for more than two centuries, this inauguration is unlike any other.
Official Washington has taken on the dystopian look of an armed camp, protected by some 25,000 National Guard troops tasked with preventing any repeat of this month's attack.
And with the pandemic raging, the general public is essentially barred from attending the swearing-in, leading to unprecedented optics: an empty National Mall on Inauguration Day.
With the death toll soaring past 400,000, Biden on Tuesday led a powerful tribute to victims of Covid-19 as he arrived in Washington.
Biden, who has suffered deep personal tragedy and is known for his public displays of emotion, has stressed the need to unite the country after Trump's chaos.
"It's hard sometimes to remember, but that's how we heal. It's important to do that as a nation," Biden said in somber remarks at the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
Thirty-four years after first seeking the job, Joe Biden will be sworn in as the 46th US president Wednesday, drawing a curtain on the most tumultuous administration of modern times and charting a new course to tackle Covid-19 and unite a splintered nation.
Outgoing President Donald Trump entered the White House four years ago as a brash billionaire outsider, but he is being ousted by a polar opposite whose devotion to service, deep knowledge of Washington, and personal scars will unquestionably set a different tone.
Biden, a 78-year-old former vice president and longtime senator, will take the oath of office at noon (1700 GMT) on the US Capitol's West front, the very spot where pro-Trump rioters clashed with police two weeks ago before storming Congress in a deadly insurrection.
While a transition of power will occur much as it has for more than two centuries, this inauguration is unlike any other.
Official Washington has taken on the dystopian look of an armed camp, protected by some 25,000 National Guard troops tasked with preventing any repeat of this month's attack.
And with the pandemic raging, the general public is essentially barred from attending the swearing-in, leading to unprecedented optics: an empty National Mall on Inauguration Day.
With the death toll soaring past 400,000, Biden on Tuesday led a powerful tribute to victims of Covid-19 as he arrived in Washington.
Biden, who has suffered deep personal tragedy and is known for his public displays of emotion, has stressed the need to unite the country after Trump's chaos.
"It's hard sometimes to remember, but that's how we heal. It's important to do that as a nation," Biden said in somber remarks at the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
Jan 20, 2021 13:01 (IST)
US President Donald Trump granted clemency to former White House aide Steve Bannon as part of a wave of pardons and commutations issued in his final hours in office, but did not pardon himself, members of his family or lawyer Rudy Giuliani.
Jan 20, 2021 11:57 (IST)
Trump pardons former Google engineer Anthony Levandowski
US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he had given a full pardon to a former Google engineer sentenced for stealing a trade secret on self-driving cars months before he briefly headed Uber Technologies Inc's rival unit.
Anthony Levandowski, 40, was sentenced in August to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty in March
He was not in custody but a judge had said he could enter custody once the COVID-19 pandemic subsided.
The White House said Levandowski was "an American entrepreneur who led Google's efforts to create self-driving technology.
"The statement added he had "paid a significant price for his actions and plans to devote his talents to advance the public good."
Alphabet Inc's Google did not immediately comment.
Levandowski transferred more than 14,000 Google files, including development schedules and product designs, to his personal laptop before he left, and while negotiating a deal with Uber, where he briefly led its self-driving car unit.
Jan 20, 2021 11:46 (IST)
Outgoing President Trump pardons 73 people: White House
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday pardoned 73 people, including his former aide Steve Bannon, the White House said, just before he was due to leave office.
"President Donald J. Trump granted pardons to 73 individuals and commuted the sentences of an additional 70 individuals," his administration said in a statement.
"President Donald J. Trump granted pardons to 73 individuals and commuted the sentences of an additional 70 individuals," his administration said in a statement.
Jan 20, 2021 11:37 (IST)
United in Spirit: Kamala Harris tweets ahead of inauguration
Jan 20, 2021 11:22 (IST)
Jan 20, 2021 11:13 (IST)
U.S. President Donald Trump has granted clemency to former White House aide Steve Bannon as part of a wave of pardons and commutations he will issue during his final hours in office, a senior administration official said.
Jan 20, 2021 10:16 (IST)
Joe Biden's Speech Writer Is Indian-American Vinay Reddy
Joe Biden, in his maiden address to the nation soon after being sworn in as the 46th President of the United States, would deliver a forward-looking speech built around the theme of unity, advisors close to the President-elect said.
According to the advisors, in his first moments after being sworn in as the 46th President of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts after the clock strikes 12 noon (local time) at the West Front of the Capitol, Biden will speak about the need to bring the country together during an unprecedented moment of crisis.
Read more here
Jan 20, 2021 10:15 (IST)
The objective of the incoming Biden Administration is to continue elevating the US' defence partnership with India, the Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin nominee told lawmakers.
Jan 20, 2021 10:08 (IST)
Ivanka Trump's Farewell Message Has A Good Word For Joe Biden
US President Donald Trump's daughter and advisor Ivanka Trump shared a farewell message today saying Americans must pray for the Joe Biden administration's success as the family vacates the White House. The message comes close in heels to her father's message where he wished success to the new administration for the first time.
Read here
Jan 20, 2021 09:20 (IST)
On his last night in the White House, outgoing President Donald Trump signed an executive order Tuesday suspending the deportation of Venezuelans from US territory for a period of 18 months, citing the ongoing crisis in their own country.
Jan 20, 2021 08:55 (IST)
US President-elect Joe Biden and his deputy Kamala Harris will be sworn in as the 46th President and 49th Vice-President of the United States today, January 20. Ms Harris will make history as America's first woman, first Black and first person with south Asian roots to take the office of the Vice President.
Jan 20, 2021 08:55 (IST)
An emotional President-elect Joe Biden flew to Washington Tuesday on the eve of his inauguration, as his predecessor Donald Trump -- who will snub Biden's swearing-in -- for the first time wished success to the new administration.
