As Americans rejoiced or protested the changes taking place in the federal government during the inauguration of President Donald Trump, GHS social studies teacher Bill Conley stood by his party and with the people witnessing the change of power; he traveled to our nation’s capital to enjoy the inauguration day festivities.  This inauguration was much different for him because of the change in his party involvement. Conley was a participant in the party activities as a delegate for the electoral college and is now a leader in the local GOP. This inauguration was much different than previous ones in recent history. The incoming president is the complete opposite of the outgoing president. People began to notice the difference in the President’s inaugural address. Conley commented on the speech saying,” The inaugural address was very different. While it spoke about hope of a better future, which was similar to ones following years of poor economic performance, it was very different in the populist viewpoint President Trump took. He directed his speech toward the people, promising to move power from the politicians back to them.”

Mr. Conley not only stands by Trump, he also elected him as a member of the electoral college. Trump’s cabinet nominees have made for much talk in the media and around the hill, as the Senate has already begun confirmations and hearings. “His nominees for the most part were taken from successful people within their area of expertise. Also, they were fairly, to strongly conservative,” Conley said. Two of Trump’s appointments come from the Palmetto state, Governor Nikki Haley who was nominated as Ambassador to the United Nations and Mick Mulvaney who will takeover the Office of Budget and Management.  Conley praised the two picks, ” Governor Haley and Mick Mulvaney are good choices. While the former governor may not have diplomatic experience, she has worked with foreign leaders in developing business ties to South Carolina. Representative Mulvaney is a very good choice. He has previously proposed a balance budget amendment to the Constitution. He had taken over the long-held seat of John Spratt from the Fourth District, who had help develop the extensive tax code. Hopefully it will become more simple and easier to understand. Also, being in charge of the budgeting office, he will be more likely to help reduce the deficit and debt, with the help of President Trump.”

Now that the President has begun his work in the oval office, he has signed many executive orders and has been quick with his work. Conley believes that President Trump is, “a catalyst for change…He is making good on campaign promises early, which normally takes presidents some time to accomplish. I believe we will see more of this action. he is a man that has been used to getting things done quickly, and decisively.” As America begins to watch its democracy go to work, many are wondering what kind of success if any will this administration make? According to Conley, “We will have to wait and see on success, but not on taking action.”