Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2017, was not just a historic moment marking the start of his presidency but also a gathering of some of the world’s wealthiest and most influential individuals. The event drew billionaires, business moguls, and celebrities, all with ties to Trump or his vision for America.
1. Sheldon Adelson
The late casino magnate, Sheldon Adelson, was one of Trump’s most prominent supporters. With a net worth exceeding $35 billion at the time, Adelson contributed significantly to Trump’s campaign and was a visible presence at the inauguration. His support symbolized the alliance between Trump’s administration and influential business leaders.
2. Peter Thiel
The Silicon Valley billionaire and co-founder of PayPal, Peter Thiel, was a rare conservative voice in the tech industry. As an early backer of Trump, Thiel attended the inauguration, showcasing the connection between the administration and tech entrepreneurship.
3. Carl Icahn
With a net worth of over $17 billion in 2017, Carl Icahn, an activist investor and close advisor to Trump, was a prominent attendee. Icahn was later tapped as a special advisor on regulatory reform, emphasizing Trump’s reliance on wealthy, business-savvy individuals.
4. Robert Kraft
The owner of the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft, is another wealthy figure who supported Trump. Known for his close friendship with the former president, Kraft’s attendance underscored Trump’s ties to high-profile figures in sports and entertainment.
5. Betsy DeVos
Betsy DeVos, a billionaire and Trump’s pick for Secretary of Education, was also in attendance. As an advocate for school choice and charter schools, her presence highlighted Trump’s alignment with wealthy individuals focused on reshaping American education policy.
6. Wilbur Ross
Trump’s pick for Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, was a wealthy investor worth over $2 billion. His attendance was a reflection of Trump’s strategy to fill his cabinet with successful business leaders.
7. Steve Wynn
Casino tycoon Steve Wynn, with a net worth of around $3 billion, was a notable figure at the inauguration. Wynn later served as a finance chairman for the Republican National Committee, further solidifying his political influence.
A Celebration of Wealth and Power
Trump’s inauguration was unique in its overt display of wealth and high-profile connections. It underscored his administration’s alignment with business leaders and wealthy supporters, creating a stark contrast to previous inaugurations.
Legacy of the Event
The gathering of billionaires and influential figures at Trump’s inauguration highlighted the intersection of politics, wealth, and power during his presidency. While some viewed it as a celebration of success and ambition, critics raised concerns about the influence of wealth in shaping national policies.
In retrospect, Trump’s inauguration remains a defining moment in modern American politics, marked by the prominent role of wealth and business in his administration’s narrative.
