Trump’s Swearing-In Ceremony to Take Place Inside US Capitol Rotunda

WASHINGTON: Due to a predicted Arctic cold front, US President-elect Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony will be relocated to the US Capitol Rotunda. The decision comes as the temperature in Washington, DC, is expected to plummet to severe record lows, with wind chill making it even colder.

Trump shared the news on his Truth Social platform, expressing concern for safety. He stated, “Temperatures in Washington, DC, with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows. The country is experiencing an Arctic blast. I don’t want to see somebody being harmed in any manner.”

Typically, the US Capitol Rotunda serves as a backup venue for swearing-in ceremonies in case of inclement weather. The last time the ceremony was moved indoors was during President Ronald Reagan’s second term in 1985, due to similarly frigid conditions. The forecast predicts that Monday’s temperatures will be the lowest since that historic day, with the swearing-in event occurring at midday when temperatures are expected to be around 22°F (-6°C). This marks a stark contrast to 2009, when Barack Obama’s swearing-in ceremony was held at 28°F (-2°C).

Members of Congress, outgoing President Joe Biden, and other dignitaries will be able to witness the event from inside the Capitol. However, with more than 250,000 ticket holders expected to attend, along with additional crowds lining the parade route, alternative viewing arrangements are being made for the public. Trump, who will also be hosting a rally at Washington’s Capital One Arena, announced that some fans will be able to watch the ceremony from there. Afterward, he plans to visit the venue and lead a modified procession to celebrate the inauguration.

Despite the cold temperatures, Trump’s schedule for the day remains intact. His rally and attendance at three ceremonial inaugural balls are planned, as well as other inaugural events.

The decision to relocate the swearing-in ceremony to the Capitol Rotunda was officially confirmed by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, which honored the request from the President-elect and his Inaugural Committee.

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