On Monday, January 20th, 2025, President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. During the inauguration ceremony, the President-elect takes the Oath of Office, this oath is written in the United States Constitution. The oath promises to protect the Constitution, it reads, “I (presidents full name) do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
The Chief Justice usually administers the oath, and their role is to ensure a peaceful transition of power. As the President-elect repeats after the Chief Justice, the oath is ended with “so help me God.” However, that is not written in the Constitution and is just followed as tradition. This oath is usually taken with the right hand up and left hand on the Bible or the President-elect’s text of choice. This tradition was started by President George Washington and has been followed by most presidents.
President John Quincy Adams swore his oath on a book of law instead of the Bible in 1825. After the assassination of President William McKinley in 1901 his successor President Theodore Roosevelt took the oath in a private ceremony in Buffalo, New York and there was no Bible available. In 1963, after the assassination of President Kennedy, President Lyndon B. Johnson had to take the oath on Air Force One and he used a Catholic missal, because a Bible was not immediately available. These special circumstances are the only times presidents have not used a Bible while taking their oath. Although, this is a tradition that was started in 1789, it is not required by the Constitution that a Bible is used or that their hand be placed on the president’s text of choice.
The President’s wife usually holds the Bible during the Oath of Office, as a symbolic gesture of unity and support. However, this is not a requirement, and if the president does not have a wife, other family members, friends or officials are allowed to hold the Bible or the president’s text of choice instead. During President Trump’s first swearing on January 20th, 2017, his wife Melania Trump held the Bible during the Oath of Office, and he placed his hand on the Bible, following the tradition. Recently during his second time taking the Oath of Office, Melania Trump held two Bibles one given to President Trump by his mother and the 2nd was the Lincoln Bible that President Lincoln used to take the Oath of Office in 1861. President Trump did not put his hand on either Bible.
While campaigning to become President, Trump promoted the “God Bless the USA Bible”, the title of the Bible is inspired by country singer Lee Greenwood’s song “God Bless the USA”, who is also a partner of “God Bless the USA.” The website says this is “the only Bible endorsed by President Trump.” Trump talked about his life being saved by God during his inauguration speech, he recalled the assassination attempt when he was shot in the ear in Pennsylvania in July 2024 “But I felt then, and believe even more so now, that my life was saved for a reason. I was saved by God to make America great again” he said.”
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
