Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 45th president of the United States represents a shift in American politics that will likely have a lasting impact on the nation and how business is conducted in Washington.

Today, as President Trump lowers his hand after taking the oath of office, all of us will contemplate if changes implemented in the days, weeks, months and years ahead by the new administration will put our nation on a path of hope and prosperity.

American voters historically never appeared as divided as they did in the 2016 election. The tone of the election was forceful, laced with derogatory accusations and ultimately a full-scale exposure of all the issues that have led to political and social polarization.

It’s our hope that somehow the two-fisted brawling of the election and Trump’s victory, considered by many as the most unlikely president in modern times, will eventually bring the nation out of a long and winding road of entangled emotions and splintered politics.

Trump represents a departure from the slick, well-controlled political messages of past candidacies and presidential administrations. As the head of a business empire known around the world for his aggressive personality, America’s new president has battled back against critics and challenged politically correct norms with the enthusiasm and grit of a 15-round journeyman boxer. Caring not if an opponent hailed from the Democratic or Republican stable, for better or worse, he has been on the offensive since the day he entered the political ring. It’s likely his battle will continue in some form or fashion until at least 2020, and possibly 2024.

The hope in a politician of this demeanor is that Democrats and Republicans will come together on pivotal issues affecting the American citizenry. Reaching back to find statesmanship and effective compromise within the congressional ranks, which is key to nation’s progress, depends a lot on Trump.

Overlooking the expected early battles of unraveling Obamacare and the appointment of a new U.S. Supreme Court justice, Trump may well find success when he comes forward with a plan to upgrade infrastructure across the nation. He will likely also find deep interest among lawmakers in creating more incentives for American industries and businesses to expand or stay within the United States, adding strength to the American economy.

Aside from the volatile social issues that divide Americans — immigration, abortion — most people can find common ground on securing and expanding economic opportunities. That is what made Trump attractive to many voters.

The hope that he can help forge or lead a new, successful era of economic advancement is appealing across a wide range of Americans. After all, everyone benefits from an economy that offers broad opportunities because we can feel a difference in our own bank account.

Trump will certainly be a departure from the Obama White House as he seeks to tackle issues left untouched by both parties the last few years. Success for the new administration will demand public willingness and congressional cooperation to give the new president an opportunity to lead.

As President Trump ascends to the White House, we should all hope for an era of progress and representation that assists all Americans in the pursuit of happiness, liberty and economic advancement. No matter our personal or political beliefs, it’s time we all wish our new president much success as he begins his journey in leading the greatest nation in the world. President Trump, welcome to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.