The power of the presidential inauguration

Secretary Bunch reflects on the presidential inauguration as a moment to recommit to the success of our democratic project.

Twenty years ago, my team and I raced to put the finishing touches on “The American Presidency” exhibition at the National Museum of American History, to open it just in time for the inauguration of President Bush. We did so amid uproar and uncertainty; as many remember well, that election ultimately came down to 537 votes in Florida and a Supreme Court decision.

The newly opened American Presidency exhibition chronicled many such turbulent moments in our history, beginning with the earliest elections of our fledgling nation when the democratic structures of freedom and self-government were still open questions. The election of 1864 during the Civil War was a referendum on the principles of liberty, equality, and basic dignity. And over the past few decades, every successive presidential election has seemingly reflected our nation’s growing polarization.

And yet, despite the conflict inherent in the process, this exhibition highlighted the revolutionary notion that the transfer of power could proceed peacefully. No matter how violent our disagreement on policy, party, or leadership, the presidential inauguration is a moment that America has historically held sacrosanct. I think of Ulysses Grant, riding to his second inauguration and waving to the people from a vehicle resembling a royal carriage, or the photos of Lincoln’s second inaugural, the packed crowds straining for a glimpse of their president even as the conflagration of war engulfed the nation. The ceremony and significance of this moment has always reminded us not to take our democracy for granted, to remember that the democratic system is only as strong as our will to uphold it. Such a reminder, to my mind, is sorely needed right now.

This month, we witnessed an assault on that fundamental premise of our democracy, the peaceful transition of power. The mob that broke into the United States Capitol threatened not only our highest democratic institutions but also the very pillar of our system of government—the American people’s constitutional right to self-determination. Like so many who watched the events unfold across the country, I was horrified and angered by this attack on this symbol of our democracy and everything it stands for.

While I renounce the appalling and violent events of January 6th, I look forward to January 20th as an opportunity to restore our faith in democracy. Without huge crowds or in-person celebrations, the inauguration of President Joe Biden will feel different than those that preceded it. But it is still worth celebrating. Regardless of political affiliation or perspective, it is a moment for Americans to renew a commitment to the success of the democratic project. It is my hope that this inauguration can reaffirm our belief in American systems and institutions. More than any single parade or speech, this singular moment every four years reminds us of America’s sacred promise: that the clarion call of democracy is the voice of the people.  

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