President-elect Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for January 20, will be held indoors at the US Capitol due to a forecast of dangerously cold temperatures in Washington, DC.
This marks the first time in 40 years that a presidential inauguration will take place indoors, with the last such instance occurring during former President Ronald Reagan’s second swearing-in in 1985.
The announcement was made by Mr. Trump on Friday through his Truth Social platform, citing the safety and well-being of attendees as the primary reason for the change.
"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," he said.
According to meteorologists, an Arctic blast sweeping through Canada and the United States is expected to bring temperatures in Washington, DC, to as low as minus 12 degrees Celsius on Monday, with a high of minus 5 degrees Celsius.
Ceremony in Capitol Rotunda
Mr. Trump confirmed that the swearing-in ceremony, along with his inaugural address and accompanying prayers, will now take place inside the Capitol’s rotunda. The Republican leader emphasized that the decision was made out of concern for the safety of law enforcement personnel, first responders, and the hundreds of thousands of expected attendees.
"It is dangerous conditions for the tens of thousands of law enforcement, first responders, police K9s and even horses, and hundreds of thousands of supporters that will be outside for many hours on the 20th," he stated.
In a nod to history, Mr. Trump noted the similarities to Reagan’s second inauguration, which was also moved indoors due to severe cold. "The various dignitaries and guests will be brought to the Capitol. This will be a very beautiful experience for all, and especially for the large TV audience," he added.
Public Viewing at Capital One Arena
The 78-year-old President-elect also announced that the Capital One Arena, a sports venue in downtown Washington, DC, with a capacity of 20,000 people, will host a live viewing of the inauguration. Additionally, the venue will serve as the site 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, while the inaugural balls will take place on Monday evening. Mr. Trump confirmed he would join supporters at the arena following the swearing-in ceremony.
"Everyone will be safe, everyone will be happy, and we will, together, Make America Great Again!" he said.
