Indoor Inauguration: Trump Takes Oath Inside Capitol Rotunda
In a surprising twist, President-elect Donald Trump will now be sworn in indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to sub-freezing temperatures forecast for Monday in Washington. This change of plans means that almost everyone visiting Washington won’t be able to witness the ceremony in person, marking the first time in 40 years that the swearing-in won’t take place on the Capitol steps.
What You Need to Know About the New Inauguration Plans
The Rotunda has been prepared as an alternative venue for the inauguration in case of inclement weather, with the swearing-in last moved indoors in 1985 for President Ronald Reagan’s second term. This decision comes as Monday’s forecast predicts the lowest Inauguration Day temperatures in decades. President Joe Biden, members of Congress, and other dignitaries will be able to view the ceremony from inside the Capitol, where a small platform is being installed.
Unfortunately, due to the extremely cold weather, the U.S. Capitol Police have announced the closure of outside ticketed areas at the Capitol. This means that even those who wanted to gather outside as Trump takes the oath inside won’t be allowed to do so.
Chillier Than Reagan’s Inauguration
The National Weather Service is predicting that the temperature will be around 22 degrees Fahrenheit at noon EST when Trump becomes president, making it one of the coldest Inauguration Day temperatures on record. Trump himself expressed concern for people’s safety in the severe cold and emphasized the Arctic blast sweeping the country.
In a lighthearted response, some Democrats poked fun at Trump’s decision, highlighting the contrast between the upcoming chilly inauguration and past ceremonies held in warmer conditions. The historical context adds a layer of intrigue to this unprecedented change in plans.
Details on Attendance and Parade Adjustments
Concerns about the number of attendees inside the Rotunda and the logistics of the traditional inauguration parade are still being addressed. While the Rotunda can only hold around 600 people, plans are in place to accommodate various dignitaries and guests for the ceremony.
As for the parade, typically lined with thousands of spectators from the Capitol to the White House, adjustments are being made by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region to ensure the event proceeds smoothly. The participation of marching bands and other performers in the newly arranged indoor festivities is also being considered.
Through all these changes, Trump has reassured the public that other inaugural events, such as a Sunday rally and three inaugural balls on Monday night, will continue as scheduled. The resilience and adaptability displayed by organizers and attendees alike in the face of unforeseen circumstances are a testament to the spirit of unity and celebration that defines presidential inaugurations.
In conclusion, while the weather may pose challenges to the traditional outdoor inauguration, the resilience and adaptability of the organizers ensure that the spirit of the event remains intact. From the historic significance of the Capitol Rotunda ceremony to the logistical adjustments for attendees and parade participants, every detail is being carefully considered to make this a memorable and successful event.