With extreme weather conditions threatening the inauguration ceremony, President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed that his January 20 address will now be held indoors at the US Capitol's rotunda.
Donald Trump's Inauguration Adapted for Ice-Cold Conditions
Donald Trump's Inauguration Adapted for Ice-Cold Conditions
Inaugural ceremonies shift indoors as dangerously cold weather forecasts hit Washington, D.C.
Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration has taken a significant turn due to the forecast of dangerously cold weather in Washington, D.C. On January 20, the President-elect announced that his inaugural address, along with other key speeches, will take place indoors citing concerns for public safety amid the chilling forecast. The traditional outdoor inaugural parade has also been relocated to the Capital One Arena, approximately a mile from the Capitol, where all inaugural balls will occur as well.
In his words posted on Truth Social, Trump expressed his concern for attendees and stressed the importance of safety by stating, "I do not want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way." Cold temperatures are projected to reach lows of -11°C (12°F) and highs of -5°C (23°F), which will feel significantly colder with wind chill. This shift mirrors the modifications made at Ronald Reagan's inauguration in 1985, the last time a swearing-in was conducted indoors.
As plans shift, concerns arise regarding the attendance size; about 220,000 tickets were originally distributed for outdoor viewing, but alternate arrangements will now be necessary for spectators. While Trump expressed optimism that all attendees would be kept "safe" and "happy" as they together aim to "Make America Great Again," the reality of the situation may pose a significant adjustment compared to past events.
Moreover, with a planned rally in the same arena prior to the swearing-in ceremony, Trump remains determined to carry on with traditional inaugural festivities, albeit with an altered approach. Historical context reminds us of past inaugurations, where some had suffered due to poor weather.
Only time will tell how this unprecedented adaptation may affect attendance and overall experience during the inauguration day, but for now, Trump's team remains focused on ensuring that the ceremony goes off without a hitch, despite the frosty forecast.
In his words posted on Truth Social, Trump expressed his concern for attendees and stressed the importance of safety by stating, "I do not want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way." Cold temperatures are projected to reach lows of -11°C (12°F) and highs of -5°C (23°F), which will feel significantly colder with wind chill. This shift mirrors the modifications made at Ronald Reagan's inauguration in 1985, the last time a swearing-in was conducted indoors.
As plans shift, concerns arise regarding the attendance size; about 220,000 tickets were originally distributed for outdoor viewing, but alternate arrangements will now be necessary for spectators. While Trump expressed optimism that all attendees would be kept "safe" and "happy" as they together aim to "Make America Great Again," the reality of the situation may pose a significant adjustment compared to past events.
Moreover, with a planned rally in the same arena prior to the swearing-in ceremony, Trump remains determined to carry on with traditional inaugural festivities, albeit with an altered approach. Historical context reminds us of past inaugurations, where some had suffered due to poor weather.
Only time will tell how this unprecedented adaptation may affect attendance and overall experience during the inauguration day, but for now, Trump's team remains focused on ensuring that the ceremony goes off without a hitch, despite the frosty forecast.
