The text of the President’s inaugural speech is in the public domain. This is because of the general rule that all works created by the federal government are in the public domain. It’s funny to think about the President being an employee of the federal government, but that’s exactly what he is. And as a result, all of his speeches, correspondence, etc. are in the public domain. 

 

For more information regarding what speeches are and aren’t in the public domain you should consult the section "Are historical speeches public domain?"

 

If you have any questions about whether a specific recording of the President’s speech is in the public domain or whether any document or recording is in the public domain in general, feel free to contact New Media Rights at (619) 591-8870 or support@newmediarights.org for free, pro bono legal assistance.