The upcoming swearing-in ceremony of President-elect Donald Trump, scheduled for Jan. 20has been relocated indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to a severe cold weather forecast for Washington, D.C.
Significant logistical changes accompany this decision, as most ticketed spectators will not be able to attend in person, as ABC News reports.
The forecast predicts bitterly cold temperatures on inauguration day, reaching around 18-19 degrees Fahrenheit at noon, with wind chill making it feel like 5-10 degrees. Due to the anticipated freezing conditions, preparations have been underway since Jan. 17 to relocate the event indoors.
The extreme weather forecast has prompted the construction of a new stage inside the Capitol Rotunda. This will facilitate the swearing-in ceremony in an enclosed space, ensuring the safety and comfort of attendees.
Outdoor ticketed areas on the West Front of the Capitol will not be accessible. The majority of guests holding tickets have been informed that they will not have the chance to attend in person. Their tickets will serve as keepsakes. Only individuals with tickets to the Presidential Platform and members of Congress will witness the ceremony firsthand, according to the Joint Inaugural Committee.
To accommodate public viewing, the live-streamed ceremony will be available at Capital One Arena. Following his oath, Trump plans to join spectators at this venue, offering an alternative for those wishing to partake in the inaugural festivities. Advisories suggest that attendees find indoor locations to celebrate, ensuring their comfort and safety during the event. The ceremony will be broadcast for widespread accessibility.
Largely due to the change of venue, security forces are preparing to handle the adjusted logistics. The Capitol Police, along with other agencies, will uphold a fortified security stance throughout the Capitol. The Secret Service, in coordination with partners, is revising security plans to account for the changes in location and guest attendance.
This adjustment follows precedents set in U.S. history, albeit infrequently, with the most recent comparable shift taking place 40 years ago. The sudden change mirrors President Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985, when the temperature on Jan. 21 was an unprecedented 7°F at noon, impacting traditional inaugural activities.
Reagan's swearing-in marked the coldest January inauguration day on record. His parade was entirely canceled, setting a historical context for this year's adjustments. This year, there remains emphasis on ensuring a safer, more manageable event under challenging weather conditions, drawing comparisons to how such conditions have been navigated in the past.
In response to the changes, Trump has focused on the altered and unique dynamics of this year’s ceremony. He reassured the public, emphasizing safety as a priority. "The various dignitaries and guests will be brought into the Capitol," Trump shared. He described the event as a "very beautiful experience" for television viewers in particular.
While expressing a strong desire to prevent harm or discomfort among attendees, Trump remains optimistic about the success of the inauguration despite the indoor move. The president-elect's statements reflect overarching themes of inclusivity and adaptability as the nation pauses for this significant ceremonial moment.
In order to mitigate potential difficulties caused by the cold snap, those gathering in Washington are urged to engage with indoor celebrations. This suggestion highlights considerations for both personal safety and the continuance of the celebratory spirit.
The Joint Inaugural Committee has reiterated its guidance for visitors to seek out alternative locations for viewing the inauguration, aligning with modified logistical strategies. "We strongly suggest people who are in Washington for the event attend other indoor events at indoor venues of their choice to watch the inauguration," the Committee advised. The significance of this high-profile event remains unchanged, even as attendees adapt to its uncommon presentation and evolving logistical framework.
