PHOENIX, AZ – In his first rally-style speech since securing the presidency in last month’s election, Donald Trump announced to an enthusiastic crowd at Turning Point USA’s AmFest that his administration would be “fully operational” by January 20, 2025. The event, held in Phoenix, Arizona, marked Trump’s return to the rally circuit, showcasing his continued engagement with his base.
Trump, addressing the crowd, humorously noted, “You just have a few days to wait. We’re going to be fully operational, I would say, by about 2:00 on the 20th,” setting a specific timeline for when the public can expect his administration to commence full operations. This statement was met with cheers and applause, underscoring the anticipation among his supporters for the new administration’s start.
The event was highlighted by Charlie Kirk, the leader of Turning Point USA and Turning Point Action, who expressed his honor in hosting Trump for this significant speech. “This was already the largest multi-day event in the movement, and this year will be the biggest we’ve ever hosted, by far,” Kirk stated, emphasizing the magnitude of the event and its importance to the conservative movement.
During the speech, Trump also touched on his plans for his second term, including his nomination of former Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. Hegseth’s nomination has already stirred some controversy due to allegations of personal misconduct, which he has denied, promising sobriety if confirmed. This choice reflects Trump’s strategy of selecting individuals known to his base from media, continuing a trend from his previous administration.
The rally also served as a platform for Trump to reaffirm his policy stances and rally support for his incoming administration. His speech was peppered with promises of swift action on various fronts, including border security, energy, and immigration, aligning with the aggressive actions he has previously outlined for his first day in office.
As Trump prepares to take office, the political landscape braces for what many see as a continuation of his first term’s policies, potentially with even more vigor. Critics and supporters alike are watching closely, with debates already swirling around the implications of his administration’s plans and the influence of his media choices on policy and public perception.
This rally not only served as a victory lap for Trump but also as a clear signal of his intentions for the next four years, setting expectations high among his supporters while also igniting discussions on the future direction of U.S. policy under his leadership.
