Security fears overshadow Capitol Hill celebrations

THRONGS of eager onlookers wrapped in hats and scarves jostled for space as US President George W Bush’s brand new Cadillac swept into view.

The jet-black DTS limousine, clad in heavy armour and bullet-proof glass, reflected the celebration, pomp and circumstance but also the heightened security fears now linked to inauguration day.

Hundreds of dignitaries gathered to watch Mr Bush take the oath of office against a backdrop of flags and bunting on the Washington Capitol’s steps.

Former President Bill Clinton, arrived with his wife, Hillary, to a fanfare of trumpets.

Also present were John Kerry, Mr Bush’s opponent in November’s presidential election, and California’s Republican governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The luminaries sat huddled outside the Capitol as the beat of a military band rose into the icy air.

Preceded by his wife Laura, dressed in white, and twin daughters Jenna and Barbara, Mr Bush emerged on the steps of the Capitol shortly after noon to a deafening cheer, drowning out the tones of Hail to the Chief.

Some 100,000 watched as ailing Chief Justice William Rehnquist, 80, administered the oath of office.

Mr Bush, 58, placed one hand on a family Bible and raised the other as he recited the traditional oath.

After a 21-cannon salute and quick kisses for his family, Mr Bush’s second inaugural address, rewritten 21 times, was broadcast around the world.

As he spoke, thousands of Americans waited on the streets of Washington to witness the parade.

Mr Bush vowed to pursue “the unfinished work of American freedom” at home and to spread liberty abroad.

Towards the end, thousands of supporters burst into cheers to drown out protesters who began chanting slogans against the second-term president.

As the ceremony drew to a close, business leaders and politicians prepared for the lavish inaugural balls, expected to continue well into the night.