The inauguration of Trump’s second term was met with lackluster viewership, with a total of 24.59 million viewers across 15 networks. This is a significant decline from the 33.7 million viewers who tuned in for Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021.
The audience was also largely composed of older viewers, with 17.4 million viewers aged 55 and above, 4.67 million aged 35-54, and only 1.43 million aged 18-34. Fox News was the most popular network, with CNN and MSNBC seeing a much smaller audience.
This is likely due to Trump’s policies, which have primarily benefited older Americans. His latest move to raise prescription drug prices for Medicare will have a disproportionate impact on this age group. Meanwhile, younger viewers, who are more likely to be affected by Trump’s other policies and lack of action on social and environmental issues, have largely tuned out of the proceedings.
The inauguration’s low viewership is a reflection of Trump’s dwindling popularity, as many Americans have soured on his presidency. The event has been-roundly condemned for its lack of diversity and inclusion, with many calling it a ceremony “owned” by the far-right.