Donald Trump commenced his new term with an unexpected flurry of actions, including issuing a sweeping pardon on his first day back in office. The former president granted clemency to all 1,500 individuals accused and convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot. Among those pardoned were members of the Oath Keepers militia, including their leader Stewart Rhodes. Over 600 of those granted pardons faced accusations of assaulting Capitol officers with weapons.
In addition to the controversial pardons, Trump signed a barrage of executive orders which may face legal challenges. Notably, he signed an executive action renaming the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska's Denali. These moves marked a significant opening salvo in his current administration.
Trump's first day was not without its share of spectacle. The day began at 8:43 a.m. when he shuffled into a church to tell Jesus "you're welcome." It concluded with an inauguration party at 11:30 p.m., described as a "sleepy late-night slow dance." Throughout the day, he appeared on television from morning until night, with The Late Show host Stephen Colbert jokingly comparing the spectacle to a "Panda Cam" setup, implying Trump was perhaps unprepared for the presidency.
"That means Trump was on TV for almost 15 straight hours, because all he really wants to be is a TV star," – Stephen Colbert
Inside the Oval Office, changes were apparent as a bust of Winston Churchill and a portrait of Andrew Jackson were moved in. Plastic covers were placed on the couch to prevent potential mishaps, reminiscent of Jimmy Kimmel's humorous remark about JD Vance.
"They moved in a bust of Winston Churchill, a portrait of Andrew Jackson, and this was smart – they put plastic covers on the couch in case JD Vance gets a little too lovey-dovey," – Jimmy Kimmel
Elon Musk reportedly sought an office in the White House, presenting a dilemma for Trump who relies on Musk's financial resources. In response, Trump reportedly has a button to lock the door when Musk is near.
"And he has another little button to lock the door when he hears Elon [Musk] coming," – Stephen Colbert
Amid these developments, Stephen Colbert emphasized the need for mental health awareness in such tumultuous times.
"It is so important for all of our mental health to pace ourselves," – Stephen Colbert
He also advised viewers to get rest and stay hydrated, acknowledging that not every day would revolve around Donald Trump—except today.
Beyond the political sphere, a recent federal study highlighted that consuming just one alcoholic beverage daily could elevate health risks. This finding added another layer of complexity to an already unpredictable news cycle.