Ok, so he flubbed it. After what we can assume was hours of practice, the swearing in ceremony didn’t go exactly to plan, with Obama stumbling over the opening lines of the oath of office. It seemed like nervous jitters but “let’s set the record straight,” writes Daily Intel, “Barack Obama doesn’t get nervous (or sweat).”

Pundits are pointing the finger at Chief Justice John Roberts.

The actual oath of office, as it’s supposed to be read runs thus: “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

Roberts said, “…that I will execute the office of President to the United States faithfully…”

Daily Intel’s theory? “You can’t just throw “faithfully” at the end like that. Obama, who likely practiced the correct line for hours precisely so he wouldn’t mess it up on the biggest day of his life, knew Roberts read it wrong. So he paused and, in one of the most widely watched awkward moments ever, waited for Roberts to correct himself.”

Wonkette‘s theory? John Roberts screwed up the oath on purpose. Let the conspiracies begin.

What was your take on the Obama’s Inauguration? Send your thoughts to boss@crikey.com.au with “Obama” in the subject field by 11am and we’ll publish the best responses in the regular edition today.