Who Was at the Trump 2025 Inauguration? Key Attendees and Performances
The 2025 inauguration of Donald Trump marked a significant moment in U.S. political history, with an eclectic mix of performers, political figures, and influential personalities from various industries. As Trump entered his second term as the 45th president of the United States, the Capitol Rotunda hosted an unforgettable event featuring musical performances and notable political figures, from former presidents to tech titans and media moguls.
Musical Performances That Defined the Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony showcased a variety of musical talent, with performances that resonated deeply with the audience, creating a memorable atmosphere.
Carrie Underwood’s Poignant A Capella Performance
One of the most captivating moments of the inauguration came when country music icon Carrie Underwood performed “America the Beautiful.” Although a technical glitch delayed the start of her performance, Underwood's professionalism shone through as she transitioned seamlessly into a powerful a capella rendition. Her emotional delivery, dressed in a minimalist white gown, captivated attendees and highlighted her remarkable vocal ability. Her performance was a moment of unity and grace, contrasting the more traditional nature of other performances, such as Jennifer Lopez’s from the 2021 inauguration.
Christopher Macchio’s Majestic National Anthem
Opera star Christopher Macchio's rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” was another highlight of the inauguration. Known for his powerful voice and connection with President Trump, Macchio’s performance commanded the Capitol Rotunda. Dressed in a midnight blue velvet jacket, his mastery of the national anthem was displayed with effortless vocal technique and emotional depth. His stirring performance resonated deeply with the crowd, and his salute to President Trump, after completing the anthem, added a personal touch that reflected his strong ties with the new president.
Lee Greenwood's Iconic 'God Bless The U.S.A.'
Before the ceremony commenced, country-folk singer Lee Greenwood performed his iconic anthem, “God Bless The U.S.A.,” which has become synonymous with American patriotism and Trump’s political rallies. Greenwood’s friendship with Trump dates back years, and the two have shared a long relationship that dates back to the 1990s. As Greenwood sang the anthem, the event felt like a symbolic representation of the unity that Trump sought to bring to his second term. With previous performances at Trump’s 2017 inauguration and several Republican National Conventions, Greenwood’s presence was a natural fit for the event.
High-Profile Figures Who Attended the 2025 Inauguration
The 2025 inauguration was also a meeting of political, business, and tech elites. Several notable figures attended the ceremony, many of whom play significant roles in shaping the future of the U.S. economy, technology, and policy.
Former Presidents and Political Giants
All four living former U.S. presidents were in attendance at the inauguration, marking the ceremonial passing of power from one president to another. Former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Mike Pence, Trump’s first vice president, all gathered in the Capitol Rotunda to witness this historic occasion. While Michelle Obama notably did not attend, the presence of these political figures underlined the importance of this moment in American history.
Tech Titans: Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook
Tech executives played a significant role at Trump’s 2025 inauguration. Elon Musk, the CEO of X (formerly Twitter), marked his presence despite the complex relationship between Trump and Musk, which has shifted over time. Musk’s support for Trump in the recent election, coupled with their shared interest in technology, illustrated a key point of intersection between politics and the tech world.
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta (formerly Facebook), and Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, also made appearances. These figures have been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape, and their presence signaled a broader trend of tech's increasing influence on political discourse. Zuckerberg’s recent decisions to reduce censorship on Meta’s platforms and Musk’s leadership at X will no doubt shape Trump’s second term as the president navigates the digital age.
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Sam Altman and Social Media Influencers
One of the more unexpected moments of the inauguration was the presence of Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, along with social media personalities Logan Paul and Jake Paul. These high-profile influencers, known for their online reach and often controversial content, added an element of pop culture to the political ceremony. Their presence highlighted the ever-increasing crossover between entertainment, social media, and politics. The fact that these personalities were photographed interacting with tech moguls like Musk and Altman further emphasized the strong connection between the digital realm and modern political events.
Joe Rogan, Rupert Murdoch, and Other Cultural Icons
The inauguration also attracted media moguls and personalities like Joe Rogan, whose shift in political allegiance in the past few years has drawn attention. Rogan, a prominent podcaster, shifted his endorsement to Trump in 2024 after previously supporting Bernie Sanders in 2020. His outspoken views on a variety of issues, including the pandemic and freedom of speech, have earned him both praise and criticism.
Meanwhile, Rupert Murdoch, the 93-year-old media mogul who owns News Corporation, was spotted with his wife, Elena Zhukova. Murdoch’s media empire, including Fox News and The Times, has long been associated with conservative viewpoints, making his presence at Trump’s inauguration a natural fit.
The Future of Trump's Presidency and Political Landscape
As President Trump embarks on his second term, the relationships formed during this inauguration — particularly with key figures in the tech world and entertainment industries — will likely have a profound impact on his presidency. His ability to navigate the increasingly complex intersection of politics, technology, and culture will be critical in his efforts to push forward his political agenda.
The presence of influential figures like Musk, Zuckerberg, and Altman at the inauguration underscores the growing importance of the tech sector in shaping the future of American governance. Moreover, Trump’s ability to connect with a wide range of figures from across the political and cultural spectrum — from country music stars to tech billionaires — highlights his broader appeal and influence.
The Trump 2025 inauguration was a momentous event that not only marked the return of a controversial president but also illustrated the evolving role of technology, entertainment, and media in American politics. With powerful performances by Carrie Underwood, Christopher Macchio, and Lee Greenwood, along with the attendance of political heavyweights and tech moguls, the inauguration represented a shift in how presidential ceremonies are celebrated and experienced in the modern era. As Trump begins his second term, the presence of so many influential figures suggests that the intersection of politics, entertainment, and technology will continue to shape his presidency in the years to come. The celebrities and influential figures in attendance have declared their support, whether it brings love or hate from fans!
