I'm not happy about the Presidential inauguration taking place today. No matter what you think of George W Bush, why does money need to be spent on this?

The word "inaugural" is a synonym of "first." You can only have one inaugural for a given event. There is no second inaugural running of the Kentucky Derby.

Four years ago, Bush was sworn into the office of President of the United States. As there is no "swearing out," his oaths to uphold the duties of the office are still in effect. There is no need to swear him in again. Bush's term as President is continuing, not starting again. Just like renewing one's wedding vows, this is merely an excuse for a celebration, but not necessary.

Under the present circumstances (mired in a war contrived with bad intelligence, surpluses turned into record deficits, America's prestige at an all-time low, preoccupation with defending ourselves against terror attacks) is there really a need to celebrate?