Very interesting theory. The Constitution doesn't specify WHEN or WHERE a presidential oath is to be taken, or WHO is to administer it or witness it. It's actually largely silent on oath procedures, aside from the proscribed oath itself and that it be taken "Before he enter on the Execution of his Office." The 20th Amendment simply defines when the prior term ends ("at noon on the 20th day of January") and after that, "the terms of their successors shall then begin." Much of the inauguration ceremony and traditions are just that, traditions. Traditions are not law.

Theoretically, Trump could have been inaugurated for his second term on the 10th, 11th, 12th, etc. and then upon the expiration of his first term (noon Jan 20th), if he's his own successor, he begins his second term. As crazy as it might seem, there's a very sound Constitutional argument to be made here. Excellent work.

Very interesting theory. The Constitution doesn't specify WHEN a presidential oath is to be taken or who is to administer it. It's actually largely silent on oath procedures, aside from the proscribed oath itself and that it be taken "Before he enter on the Execution of his Office." The 20th Amendment simply defines when the prior term ends ("at noon on the 20th day of January") and after that, "the terms of their successors shall then begin." Much of the inauguration ceremony and traditions are just that, traditions. Traditions are not law.

Theoretically, Trump could have been inaugurated for his second term on the 10th, 11th, 12th, etc. and then upon the expiration of his first term (noon Jan 20th), if he's his own successor, he begins his second term. As crazy as it might seem, there's a very sound Constitutional argument to be made here. Excellent work.