January 17, 2025
Due to envisaged dangerously cold weather in the nation’s capital next week, United States President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed that his inauguration ceremony for January 20 is now scheduled to hold indoors.
Similarly, in a rare move, the inaugural address, along with other speeches, will now take place inside the US Capitol’s rotunda instead of the traditional outdoor setting.
The decision to move the activities indoors, came as forecasters warned of severe winter conditions that could pose risks to attendees.
According to a spokesperson for the inaugural committee, “The safety and comfort of all participants are our top priorities,” “Given the forecast, we believe this is the best course of action.”
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The inaugural parade, which is typically a grand procession down Pennsylvania Avenue, would also be relocated, it would be held inside Washington’s Capital One Arena, to ensure that spectators and participants are shielded from the extreme cold.
Additionally, all three inaugural balls, which celebrate the incoming administration, will also take place indoors at Washington’s Capital One Arena,
The last time a US president took the oath of office indoors due to weather concerns was in 1985, when Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration was moved inside the Capitol because of extreme cold weather.
With temperatures expected to be similarly brutal this year, officials have opted to prioritise safety while maintaining the traditional pomp and pageantry of the occasion.
Despite the changes, organizers assured that the event will be “no less historic” and that the modified arrangements will still allow Americans to witness and celebrate the change of baton in leadership.
