Critics question if it’s legally binding, but supporters love it.
In a move that shocked constitutional scholars and thrilled his supporters, President Trump eschewed the traditional presidential oath during his inauguration, opting instead to recite a personal pledge of his own creation. Standing on a custom-built, gold-plated stage, Trump raised his right hand and declared: “I, Donald J. Trump, promise to be tremendous, make America even greater, and win so much that you’ll beg me to stop winning.”
The announcement came moments before the ceremony, prompting Chief Justice John Roberts to flip through his notes in confusion. After a brief pause, Roberts stepped aside, allowing Trump to lead himself through the pledge.
A Trump Original
According to Trump, the new pledge better represents the goals of his presidency. “The original oath is boring, folks,” Trump told the crowd. “Nobody remembers it. Mine is exciting. Mine is tremendous. And, let’s be honest, I’m the best at pledges.”
Supporters cheered wildly, with many in the audience chanting “Four more years!” before realizing the term hadn’t officially started yet. MAGA hats flew in the air as Trump concluded his pledge with a thumbs-up and a signature “Believe me.”
Critics Raise Questions
Critics and legal experts, however, were quick to point out that the Constitution explicitly requires the traditional oath. “It’s only 35 words. He could’ve squeezed it in,” said one constitutional lawyer. Others questioned the legal validity of the new pledge. “Can we even call him president now, or is he just, like, CEO of America?” mused a political analyst.
Former President Biden, watching the inauguration from Delaware, tweeted, “Is it even legal to swear yourself in? Asking for a friend.”
Supporters Rally Behind the Change
Trump’s base, however, embraced the move as quintessentially Trumpian. “This is why we love him,” said a supporter in the crowd. “He’s not afraid to shake things up. Plus, ‘tremendous’ is just a better word than ‘faithfully.’”
Merchandise bearing the text of Trump’s pledge hit online stores within hours. A limited-edition collector’s coin featuring the phrase “I Promise to Be Tremendous” sold out in 15 minutes.
A New Tradition?
White House Press Secretary Steven Cheung hinted that this could be the start of a new presidential tradition. “President Trump believes every leader should have a personal pledge,” he explained. “It’s about individuality, folks. We’re not robots.”
While the debate over the legality of Trump’s pledge rages on, one thing is clear: his approach to the presidency continues to defy expectations—and constitutional norms.
As the ceremony concluded, Trump left the stage to the tune of “My Way,” played live by the Marine Band. “Nobody does inaugurations better than me,” Trump declared, waving to the crowd. “It’s tremendous. Believe me.”
