WASHINGTON: On January 20, 2025, the official POTUS account on X (formerly Twitter) transitioned to represent President Donald J. Trump as he began his second term in office. The account, which serves as the social media voice of the President of the United States, now features President Trump’s name, photo, and messaging in its updates.
Transition of the Presidential Account
The White House manages the @POTUS account and traditionally passes it from one administration to the next during inaugurations. The digital transition happened immediately after Trump took the oath as the 47th President of the United States for a second term.
Social Media as a Presidential Tool
During his previous term, Trump was known for leveraging social media to communicate directly with citizens, bypassing traditional media outlets. His use of X became a hallmark of his presidency, offering real-time insights into his policies, reactions, and decisions.
Observers anticipate that Trump’s second term will feature a similar approach, with the @POTUS account serving as a key platform for announcements, updates, and engagement.
Digital Archives for the Previous Administration
As part of the transition, the posts from President Joe Biden’s administration have been archived under a new account. This practice preserves the historical record of past presidential communications while ensuring the new administration has a fresh digital start.
Reactions to the Transition
The update of the POTUS account drew varied reactions from users on X. Supporters of President Trump celebrated the return of his leadership, flooding the account with messages of encouragement. Meanwhile, critics used the platform to voice their concerns about his policies and leadership style.
The Role of Social Media in Governance
As Trump’s presidency begins, experts anticipate his administration will further leverage digital platforms to shape public discourse and promote initiatives. The real-time updates and direct communication foster greater interaction between the administration and citizens, setting a standard for 21st-century governance.
With his return to office, President Trump’s presence on @POTUS is expected to play a vital role in shaping the tone and direction of his second term.
