How Leading State Officials Commemorated Trump's Inauguration
State officials have differing opinions along party lines regarding his return to the White House.
TroibNews 
Democratic state officials responded quietly to Donald Trump’s return to the White House, in contrast to their vocal resistance eight years prior. However, there is little doubt that Democrats across the nation will soon be confronting the administration's aggressive policies, particularly on immigration and energy, leading to legal battles and other confrontations.
By the end of Trump's first day back in office, many Democratic officials were already criticizing his executive orders and initiating lawsuits. "The intent [is] to attack people’s rights," stated Democratic Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, expressing the sentiment among his colleagues. "That is something we will have to put up with or deal with every single day of this administration. Here in Illinois, we’re going to stand up, fight back, follow the law and make sure they’re following the law."
In contrast, Republican state officials overwhelmingly celebrated Trump's return and the total Republican control in Washington. Here’s a summary of how key governors, state attorneys general, and mayors reacted on Inauguration Day:
**GOVERNORS**
**Gavin Newsom:**
**Where he was:** In Los Angeles, managing wildfire aftermath.
**What he said:** "As our nation observes the peaceful transfer of power, we are reminded of the enduring principles that underpin our democracy: finding common ground and striving toward shared goals... I look forward to President Trump’s visit to Los Angeles and his mobilization of the full weight of the federal government to help our fellow Americans recover and rebuild."
**Ron DeSantis:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** DeSantis emphasized Trump's executive orders on illegal immigration, stating, "We need to get to work," and asserted, "We must seize this moment." He later returned to Florida to manage state preparations for a winter storm.
**Phil Murphy:**
**Where he was:** New Jersey, addressing winter storm responses.
**What he said:** Murphy aimed to leverage Trump’s presidency to challenge New York’s congestion pricing, stating, "As you begin your second term as president, I welcome any opportunity to work with you... One area where I believe our priorities align is congestion pricing." Later, he critiqued Trump for pardoning January 6 defendants.
**Greg Abbott:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "Today marks the beginning of a new era in our nation — one brimming with promise and hope," and expressed confidence in Trump's leadership. "Texas looks forward to working with President Trump... to secure the border and build a brighter, more prosperous future for all Americans."
**JB Pritzker:**
**Where he was:** In Chicago for MLK Day events.
**What he said:** Pritzker criticized Trump’s plans for revoked birthright citizenship as "unconstitutional." He noted a lack of communication from the new administration regarding deportations, implying "chaos" would mark the next four years.
**Maura Healey:**
**Where she was:** Attending MLK Day events in Boston and Springfield.
**What she said:** "I will do all I can to work with the new federal administration," but emphasized, "we’re going to continue going forward on the important investments that we’ve made."
**Jeff Landry:**
**Where he was:** Back in Louisiana from Washington to prepare for a winter storm.
**What he said:** "Today, under President Trump, begins a renaissance in this nation. One where America and her people will always come first."
**Wes Moore:**
**Where he was:** Annapolis for a public service project.
**What he said:** “In the days after the 2024 election, we articulated our shared dedication to four key principles... We will partner with the Trump-Vance Administration when we are aligned..."
**Kim Reynolds:**
**Where she was:** Washington.
**What she said:** "I stand with President Donald Trump in promising to protect lives here in Iowa and across our country from dangerous criminals illegally crossing the southern border."
**Gretchen Whitmer:**
**Where she was:** Grand Rapids for an MLK march.
**What she said:** "I want to congratulate President Trump... Here in Michigan, we are focused on creating good-paying, local jobs..."
**ATTORNEYS GENERAL**
**Ken Paxton:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "It is a great day in America... Together, we will secure our borders, uphold the law, and restore the freedoms that Biden’s unlawful policies sought to undermine."
**Rob Bonta:**
**Where he was:** Sacramento.
**What he said:** Speaking at an MLK Day march, he noted, "Every generation has had to stand up and make sure that we continue to have our rights, our freedoms..."
**Gentner Drummond:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "It was an honor to be in our nation’s capital... I look forward to working with him to protect Oklahoma families."
**Keith Ellison:**
**Where he was:** St. Paul, Minnesota.
**What he said:** "On this day, when there’s an inauguration... I can’t think of a more important day... for you and I to rededicate ourselves to the fundamental principles that Martin Luther King gave his life for."
**Tim Griffin:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "What an amazing experience to share with our children... It’s a new day in America!"
**Dana Nessel:**
**Where she was:** Lansing, Michigan.
**What she said:** “I have grave concerns regarding many of the proposed actions President Trump... have publicly promoted...”
**MAYORS**
**Eric Adams:**
**Where he was:** Attended Trump's inauguration despite criticism for skipping MLK events in New York.
**What he said:** "On MLK Day... we must put partisan politics aside to do what’s best for our country."
**Francis Suarez:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "As we look to the future... I look forward to supporting you both on this journey to Make America Great Again."
**Karen Bass:**
**Where she was:** Los Angeles.
**What she said:** Welcoming Trump to Los Angeles, she expressed hope for a continued federal partnership.
**Muriel Bowser:**
**Where she was:** Washington.
**What she said:** "I am grateful for all the teams working together to make this a safe and memorable event... I am optimistic that by focusing on our shared priorities... we will continue to deliver for DC and the American public."
Contributors to this report include Liz Crampton, Paul Demko, Kelly Garrity, Shia Kapos, Kimberly Leonard, Julia Marsh, and Ry Rivard.As the political landscape shifts with Trump's return, the responses from Democratic and Republican officials reveal stark divides in priorities and strategies. While Democrats gear up for legal battles and resistance against Trump's policies, Republicans express confidence and readiness to implement their agenda.
In the coming days and weeks, the focus will undoubtedly turn to specific policy areas, particularly immigration and energy. Democrats worry that Trump's aggressive stance on these issues could lead to increased tensions and a potential resurgence of legal battles over federal authority and state rights.
Democratic officials are prepared to counteract initiatives aimed at altering immigration policies and may seek to galvanize public opinion and grassroots movements to sustain their opposition. Activists and community leaders may mobilize to protect vulnerable populations, particularly in response to anticipated stricter enforcement measures.
In contrast, Republican leaders are eager to capitalize on Trump's second term, viewing it as an opportunity to push forward their legislative goals. Governance strategies may aim to solidify support among their bases, particularly in states where they hold the majority. Key issues such as tax reform, deregulation, and energy independence are likely to emerge as focal points.
Furthermore, the national conversation around climate change is expected to intensify, especially given Trump's history of skepticism towards climate science. Democrats are likely to position themselves as protectors of environmental policies while holding Trump accountable for decisions that could exacerbate climate issues.
The legal front will also be active, with many Democratic attorneys general prepared to challenge Trump's executive orders in court. As seen in the past, such legal actions could slow the implementation of controversial policies or bring them to a halt altogether. This ongoing legal contest could set the stage for a prolonged battle over the powers of the federal government versus states' rights.
Public sentiment will play a critical role in how these dynamics unfold. With midterm elections approaching, both parties will closely monitor voter reactions to the Trump administration's early actions. Polls indicating public support or opposition to Trump's policies could heavily influence candidates' strategies and messaging going forward.
In summary, Trump's inauguration as the 47th president of the United States signals a renewed political confrontation between the two parties. Democrats aim to mobilize opposition to what they foresee as an agenda that undermines rights and environmental protections, while Republicans are poised to advance policies they believe will restore prosperity and security. The following months promise to be pivotal as both parties navigate their respective paths in what will undoubtedly be a contentious political landscape.
Ramin Sohrabi for TROIB News
By the end of Trump's first day back in office, many Democratic officials were already criticizing his executive orders and initiating lawsuits. "The intent [is] to attack people’s rights," stated Democratic Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, expressing the sentiment among his colleagues. "That is something we will have to put up with or deal with every single day of this administration. Here in Illinois, we’re going to stand up, fight back, follow the law and make sure they’re following the law."
In contrast, Republican state officials overwhelmingly celebrated Trump's return and the total Republican control in Washington. Here’s a summary of how key governors, state attorneys general, and mayors reacted on Inauguration Day:
**GOVERNORS**
**Gavin Newsom:**
**Where he was:** In Los Angeles, managing wildfire aftermath.
**What he said:** "As our nation observes the peaceful transfer of power, we are reminded of the enduring principles that underpin our democracy: finding common ground and striving toward shared goals... I look forward to President Trump’s visit to Los Angeles and his mobilization of the full weight of the federal government to help our fellow Americans recover and rebuild."
**Ron DeSantis:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** DeSantis emphasized Trump's executive orders on illegal immigration, stating, "We need to get to work," and asserted, "We must seize this moment." He later returned to Florida to manage state preparations for a winter storm.
**Phil Murphy:**
**Where he was:** New Jersey, addressing winter storm responses.
**What he said:** Murphy aimed to leverage Trump’s presidency to challenge New York’s congestion pricing, stating, "As you begin your second term as president, I welcome any opportunity to work with you... One area where I believe our priorities align is congestion pricing." Later, he critiqued Trump for pardoning January 6 defendants.
**Greg Abbott:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "Today marks the beginning of a new era in our nation — one brimming with promise and hope," and expressed confidence in Trump's leadership. "Texas looks forward to working with President Trump... to secure the border and build a brighter, more prosperous future for all Americans."
**JB Pritzker:**
**Where he was:** In Chicago for MLK Day events.
**What he said:** Pritzker criticized Trump’s plans for revoked birthright citizenship as "unconstitutional." He noted a lack of communication from the new administration regarding deportations, implying "chaos" would mark the next four years.
**Maura Healey:**
**Where she was:** Attending MLK Day events in Boston and Springfield.
**What she said:** "I will do all I can to work with the new federal administration," but emphasized, "we’re going to continue going forward on the important investments that we’ve made."
**Jeff Landry:**
**Where he was:** Back in Louisiana from Washington to prepare for a winter storm.
**What he said:** "Today, under President Trump, begins a renaissance in this nation. One where America and her people will always come first."
**Wes Moore:**
**Where he was:** Annapolis for a public service project.
**What he said:** “In the days after the 2024 election, we articulated our shared dedication to four key principles... We will partner with the Trump-Vance Administration when we are aligned..."
**Kim Reynolds:**
**Where she was:** Washington.
**What she said:** "I stand with President Donald Trump in promising to protect lives here in Iowa and across our country from dangerous criminals illegally crossing the southern border."
**Gretchen Whitmer:**
**Where she was:** Grand Rapids for an MLK march.
**What she said:** "I want to congratulate President Trump... Here in Michigan, we are focused on creating good-paying, local jobs..."
**ATTORNEYS GENERAL**
**Ken Paxton:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "It is a great day in America... Together, we will secure our borders, uphold the law, and restore the freedoms that Biden’s unlawful policies sought to undermine."
**Rob Bonta:**
**Where he was:** Sacramento.
**What he said:** Speaking at an MLK Day march, he noted, "Every generation has had to stand up and make sure that we continue to have our rights, our freedoms..."
**Gentner Drummond:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "It was an honor to be in our nation’s capital... I look forward to working with him to protect Oklahoma families."
**Keith Ellison:**
**Where he was:** St. Paul, Minnesota.
**What he said:** "On this day, when there’s an inauguration... I can’t think of a more important day... for you and I to rededicate ourselves to the fundamental principles that Martin Luther King gave his life for."
**Tim Griffin:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "What an amazing experience to share with our children... It’s a new day in America!"
**Dana Nessel:**
**Where she was:** Lansing, Michigan.
**What she said:** “I have grave concerns regarding many of the proposed actions President Trump... have publicly promoted...”
**MAYORS**
**Eric Adams:**
**Where he was:** Attended Trump's inauguration despite criticism for skipping MLK events in New York.
**What he said:** "On MLK Day... we must put partisan politics aside to do what’s best for our country."
**Francis Suarez:**
**Where he was:** Washington.
**What he said:** "As we look to the future... I look forward to supporting you both on this journey to Make America Great Again."
**Karen Bass:**
**Where she was:** Los Angeles.
**What she said:** Welcoming Trump to Los Angeles, she expressed hope for a continued federal partnership.
**Muriel Bowser:**
**Where she was:** Washington.
**What she said:** "I am grateful for all the teams working together to make this a safe and memorable event... I am optimistic that by focusing on our shared priorities... we will continue to deliver for DC and the American public."
Contributors to this report include Liz Crampton, Paul Demko, Kelly Garrity, Shia Kapos, Kimberly Leonard, Julia Marsh, and Ry Rivard.As the political landscape shifts with Trump's return, the responses from Democratic and Republican officials reveal stark divides in priorities and strategies. While Democrats gear up for legal battles and resistance against Trump's policies, Republicans express confidence and readiness to implement their agenda.
In the coming days and weeks, the focus will undoubtedly turn to specific policy areas, particularly immigration and energy. Democrats worry that Trump's aggressive stance on these issues could lead to increased tensions and a potential resurgence of legal battles over federal authority and state rights.
Democratic officials are prepared to counteract initiatives aimed at altering immigration policies and may seek to galvanize public opinion and grassroots movements to sustain their opposition. Activists and community leaders may mobilize to protect vulnerable populations, particularly in response to anticipated stricter enforcement measures.
In contrast, Republican leaders are eager to capitalize on Trump's second term, viewing it as an opportunity to push forward their legislative goals. Governance strategies may aim to solidify support among their bases, particularly in states where they hold the majority. Key issues such as tax reform, deregulation, and energy independence are likely to emerge as focal points.
Furthermore, the national conversation around climate change is expected to intensify, especially given Trump's history of skepticism towards climate science. Democrats are likely to position themselves as protectors of environmental policies while holding Trump accountable for decisions that could exacerbate climate issues.
The legal front will also be active, with many Democratic attorneys general prepared to challenge Trump's executive orders in court. As seen in the past, such legal actions could slow the implementation of controversial policies or bring them to a halt altogether. This ongoing legal contest could set the stage for a prolonged battle over the powers of the federal government versus states' rights.
Public sentiment will play a critical role in how these dynamics unfold. With midterm elections approaching, both parties will closely monitor voter reactions to the Trump administration's early actions. Polls indicating public support or opposition to Trump's policies could heavily influence candidates' strategies and messaging going forward.
In summary, Trump's inauguration as the 47th president of the United States signals a renewed political confrontation between the two parties. Democrats aim to mobilize opposition to what they foresee as an agenda that undermines rights and environmental protections, while Republicans are poised to advance policies they believe will restore prosperity and security. The following months promise to be pivotal as both parties navigate their respective paths in what will undoubtedly be a contentious political landscape.
Ramin Sohrabi for TROIB News
