Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution contains the only oath with exact wording prescribed for any federal official. It reads: "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) 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." The President must take this oath before entering office, typically administered by the Chief Justice at noon on January 20. The Constitution allows "swear" or "affirm" to accommodate officials with religious objections to oath-taking—a provision reflecting the Founders'' commitment to religious freedom. Unlike other federal oaths created by statute, Congress cannot alter the presidential oath''s wording. Most presidents add "so help me God" at the end, a tradition attributed to George Washington but not constitutionally required. The oath''s emphasis on defending the Constitution rather than executing laws underscores the President''s primary duty to constitutional principles.