Trump Sworn In Without Hand on Bibles Held by Melania

Jan 20, 2025, 06:57 PM

During his inauguration on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump did not place his hand on the pair of Bibles held by First Lady Melania Trump while taking the oath of office, a notable deviation from tradition. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath and appeared to begin before Trump and Melania were fully prepared, leading to the oversight. Despite the unusual ceremony, the Constitution does not require the use of a Bible for the oath, and several presidents have taken the oath without one.