Donald Trump has been sworn in for a second term as president of the United States, marking a remarkable return to power. The ceremony took place at noon local time (17:00 GMT) in Washington, DC, under the Capitol rotunda, due to frigid temperatures.

Trump, 78, was administered the 35-word presidential oath of office by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. In his inaugural address, Trump proclaimed that he would “put America first” and vowed to “rebalance” the scales of justice, referencing the criminal investigations he has likened to political persecution.

The ceremony was preceded by a meeting between Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden at the White House, where Biden welcomed Trump and his wife, saying “Welcome home.” Trump and Biden then rode together to the Capitol for the inauguration.

Trump’s return to the White House comes four years after his previous re-election attempt ended in defeat. He replaces Democrat Joe Biden, who he succeeded after winning the presidential election against Kamala Harris in November.

In the lead-up to the inauguration, Biden pardoned several individuals feared to be targets under Trump’s incoming administration, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and members of the January 6 committee, such as Liz Cheney. Trump plans to issue a series of executive orders and actions aimed at dramatically changing the course of the country.