America got the final, unequivocal answer to the question, “Who’s America’s president?” when George W. Bush was sworn in Saturday.

And in DeKalb, Republicans and Democrats alike watched the transition from Clinton to Bush with interest, though the process lasted from early morning hours into the night.

The inauguration ceremony was held, in a slight drizzle, at the West front of the Capitol in Washington, D.C. After Vice President Dick Cheney’s swearing in and an interlude of “God Bless America” sung by Army Staff Sgt. Alec Maly, President Bush took the stage and faced Chief Justice William Rehnquist.

“I will faithfully execute the office of the president of the United States of America,” pledged Bush, with the slight hint of tears in his eyes.

Subsequent to the Presidential Oath, Bush began his inaugural address. He started thanking Clinton for “his service to our nation,” and Vice President Al Gore for a “contest conducted with spirit and ended with grace.” Gore accepted these remarks much as Bush praised him for running his campaign: graciously.

“I am honored and humbled to stand here, where so many of America’s leaders have come before me, and so many will follow,” Bush continued.

Much of the rest of his speech attempted to quell many Americans’ worries that the president is relatively inexperienced and ill-prepared.

“Our unity, our union is the serious work of leaders and citizens in every generation,” he said. “And this is my solemn pledge: I will work to build a single nation of justice and opportunity.”

Senior economics major Jim Hurley said it will be hard to think of anyone beside Clinton in the Oval Office.

“I thought it was a good portrayal of the majesty of our country, made me proud to be an American and all that,” Hurley said. “But I though Bush’s speech needed a little work. I found myself flipping the channels to watch Clinton. Nothing he said really inspired me.”

After shaking hands and visiting with attendees, Bush saw the departing Clinton to his waiting limo. Because of the rain, Clinton was unable to make his exit via helicopter.

Democrat Eileen Dubin, a representative on the District 8 County Board, said she wishes Bush success during his term, which should start off with tax reform.

“The next 100 days will give us a better feel, and I’ll be busy building Democratic party here in DeKalb,” she said. “We’ll be trying to bring young people in, welcoming everyone who wants to work for good government and the two-party system.”

Donald Merwin, chairman of the DeKalb County Republican Central Committee, said he looks forward to the transition and a surprising start to Bush’s presidency.

“Lots of changes will take place,” Merwin said. “Some of it will be good, some of it bad — it depends how you classify it. The first big thing to go through will probably be the tax cut, or social security. It’s an ideal time when people are getting ready to do their taxes.”

Bush returned to the Capitol to sign necessary paperwork, as well as some that reversed Clinton’s parting orders. During the signing, he chuckled with fellow Republicans, Sens. Trent Lott and Strom Thurmond.

The parade passed a few protesters along the way, but overall, the events went off without a hitch. Bush spent the rest of the afternoon preparing for, and attending, inaugural balls.