Although he did not mention former President Donald Trump by name, his message of treating others with respect and addressing the pressing issues of racism, economic inequality and climate change contrasted sharply with the turbulence of Trump’s White House. He added that their loyalty is to the American people, not to them – another contrast to the Democrats’ frequent criticism that the former president values personal loyalty above all else.
“People don’t work for us, we work for people,” said Biden. “I work for people. They pay my salary. They pay your salary. ”
The oath came during a videoconference at the White House because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Biden was asked at the end of the ceremony whether he was concerned that the Senate did not confirm his nominations to the cabinet quickly enough, to which he replied, “No.”
“I am confident that we can move forward quickly,” he said.