Key Points:
- First indoor swearing-in in 40 years: Due to icy winds and freezing temperatures (-7°C), Trump’s oath will take place in the Capitol Rotunda.
- Historic participation: For the first time in 150 years, foreign leaders will attend the ceremony.
- Venue updates: The 1.6 km-long inaugural parade and post-event rally will be hosted at Capital One Arena.
- Weather preparation: Rotunda reserved as a backup for such conditions, last used in 1985 for Reagan’s second term.
Washington D.C: Washington, DC, braces for an unprecedented swearing-in ceremony as President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office indoors at the Capitol Rotunda on Monday, January 20. This decision, triggered by severe cold and icy winds, marks the first indoor inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s second-term ceremony in 1985.
A New Chapter in Inauguration History
Breaking a 40-year precedent, the joint committee of Parliament, in consultation with Trump, decided to shift the ceremony indoors. The temperature is predicted to plummet to -7°C, making an outdoor event unfeasible. Traditionally held on the steps of the US Capitol, the swearing-in will now move to the grandeur of the Capitol Rotunda.
Adding to the historic occasion is the presence of foreign leaders, a first in 150 years. This participation underscores the growing global interest in the United States’ leadership under Donald Trump.
Changes to the Ceremony
Key inaugural activities, including Trump’s Presidential Address, will now take place indoors. The inaugural parade, typically held on Pennsylvania Avenue, has been modified to a 1.6 km route culminating at the Capital One Arena, where live screenings and celebrations will be held.
Trump announced via social media that the arena would remain open to host both the parade and a victory rally scheduled for 3 PM on Sunday, January 19.
Trump’s Assurance
Reassuring his supporters, Trump emphasized that all events will proceed as planned, albeit with adjustments for safety and comfort. He expressed eagerness to meet attendees at the Capital One Arena after the swearing-in.
Preparedness and Tradition
According to insiders, contingency plans for indoor ceremonies have always been part of the inaugural preparations. The Rotunda, a historical site within the Capitol, serves as a secure and elegant alternative during extreme weather.
In his statement, Trump hailed the decision as practical while preserving the dignity of the event. He thanked the joint committee for its swift action and reiterated his commitment to engaging with the American people, regardless of the cold.
A Symbolic Beginning
Donald Trump’s indoor inauguration symbolizes resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. While the weather necessitated changes, the spirit of the event remains intact, with historical firsts and a global audience witnessing the transition of power in the United States.
