The Biden inauguration in photos: from the swearing in to the huge police presence
These are the most striking photos from the Joe Biden 2021 presidential inauguration at the Capitol. Vice President Kamala Harris was also sworn in.
Jonathan Vanian
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Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President on Wednesday, marking the end of a turbulent four years capped by pro-Trump rioters storming the Capitol in a failed effort to subvert the election results.
Compared to previous presidential inaugurations, Biden’s ceremony lacked the typical parades, giant crowds, and big party feel.
Although the presidential inauguration ceremony generally attracts tens of thousands of spectators to the National Mall, the coronavirus pandemic and security precautions—there were 25,000 National Guard on hand—made for small crowd.
Biden was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts, while Vice President Kamala Harris was sworn in by Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
Here’s a look at some of the most striking photos from Biden’s inauguration.
U.S. President Joe Biden speaks to the socially distant crowd after being sworn into office.
Daniel Acker—Bloomberg/Getty Images
Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts, as Jill Biden and their children Ashley and Hunter stand by his side.
Andrew Harnik—Pool/Getty Images
Guests and spectators attend the Presidential Inauguration.
Susan Walsh—POOL/AFP/Getty Images
The National Mall was largely off-limits to vehicles and pedestrians, and 200,000 American flags were planted in memory of the more than 400,000 Americans who have died of COVID-19.
Allison Shelley—Reuters
U.S. Capitol Police officers stand guard outside the Capitol Building. The Capitol grounds were also protected by 25,000 National Guard troops.
