Donald Trump’s Swearing-In Ceremony Moved Indoors Due to Extreme Cold
Washington, DC – President-elect Donald Trump has announced that his swearing-in ceremony on January 20 will be moved indoors to the US Capitol rotunda, citing forecasts of dangerously cold temperatures in the nation’s capital. This marks the first indoor presidential inauguration in 40 years, following a similar decision during former President Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985.
Severe Cold Forces Venue Change
The decision, revealed on Trump’s Truth Social account, was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of attendees. Weather forecasts predict an Arctic blast will bring temperatures as low as -12°C (10°F) with a wind chill, making outdoor conditions unsafe.
Read More: China Confirms Vice President Will Attend Trump Inauguration
“The weather forecast for Washington, DC, with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows. I don’t want to see people hurt or injured in any way,” Trump stated.
Ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda
The swearing-in ceremony, along with the inaugural address and prayers, will now take place inside the Capitol’s rotunda. Trump emphasized that the move was made with concern for the thousands of law enforcement personnel, first responders, and supporters expected to attend.
“It is dangerous conditions for the tens of thousands of law enforcement, first responders, police K9s, horses, and the hundreds of thousands of supporters who would be outside for hours,” Trump said.
Drawing a historical parallel, Trump highlighted the similarity to Reagan’s indoor inauguration due to extreme cold. He assured that the event would still be a beautiful and memorable experience, especially for the large TV audience.
Public Viewing and Inaugural Events at Capital One Arena
For supporters unable to attend the indoor ceremony, the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, DC, will host a live viewing of the inauguration. The arena, which can accommodate up to 20,000 people, will also be the venue for other inaugural events, including the Victory Rally and three inaugural balls.
The Victory Rally is scheduled for Sunday at 3 PM, with doors opening at 1 PM. The inaugural balls will take place on Monday evening, following the swearing-in ceremony. Trump confirmed that he would join supporters at the arena after the ceremony.
“Everyone will be safe, everyone will be happy, and we will, together, Make America Great Again!” Trump concluded.
Weather Challenges
Meteorologists report that the extreme cold is the result of an Arctic blast sweeping through Canada and the United States. Inaugural planners have commended the decision, acknowledging the risks posed by prolonged exposure to such severe weather conditions.
With these changes, Trump’s inauguration is set to proceed smoothly while ensuring the safety and comfort of all attendees, marking another unique chapter in the history of US presidential inaugurations.
