ABSTRACT
Biden’s first ten days in office were well planned, well organized, and well executed. There was little spontaneity, little controversy, and considerable news coverage. President Biden’s inauguration departed from traditional ones because of the pandemic and security concerns that followed the Capitol insurrection of January 6. The ceremonial part of the day, the prayers, oaths, and formalities, were conducted with suitable pomp; many were conducted virtually. A principal goal of the first ten days of presidential activities was to demonstrate a routinized White House and a predictable president in contrast to the chaos of the Trump White House. Biden’s personal style—calm, determined, resolute but flexible, a trustworthy person who made sound policy judgments—contrasted sharply with Trump’s manner and more instinctive decision-making. Biden wanted to meet generic expectations of the rhetoric a president should use and how he should work and behave within public view.
