Inauguration Details
took the oath of office without placing his hand on the Bible, as held two Bibles, including a family Bible and the Lincoln Bible, during the ceremony.
The oath was administered by , with no legal requirement for the president to place a hand on the Bible, as per Article VI, Clause 3 of the .
Public and Political Reaction
Trump's gesture sparked a mix of ridicule and criticism on social media, with detractors questioning the absence of the traditional Bible gesture and some highlighting it as a break from custom.
Despite the criticism, some defended Trump's choice, noting the lack of constitutional requirement for the Bible placement, and emphasizing his proclaimed divine protection and purpose.