Due to dangerously cold temperatures expected for Washington, D.C., President-elect Donald Trump has made a significant change regarding his inauguration. The ceremony will now take place indoors, specifically in the iconic U.S. Capitol Rotunda, rather than the traditional outdoor setting. This decision comes as plans are being reshuffled to ensure the safety and security of guests and participants.
Why the Change?
The decision to move the inauguration indoors stems from forecasts predicting dangerously low temperatures, with the mercury expected to drop into the low 20s Fahrenheit and even below that with the wind chill. With such conditions, health risks to attendees were a primary concern, prompting law enforcement and event organizers to take action. The last time an inauguration was held indoors was in 1985 for President Ronald Reagan. This year’s event aims to avoid similar dangers associated with frigid weather.
What This Means for Guests
Unfortunately, this change means that a vast majority of ticketed guests will not be able to attend the ceremony in person. The Rotunda can accommodate about 700 people, but the vast number of tickets—over 200,000—originally distributed for the outdoor event cannot be honored in this new arrangement. Most attendees allowed inside will be members of Congress and other VIP guests, while many others will receive commemorative tickets as a consolation.
Alternative Viewing Options
For those who can’t attend the ceremony in person, there are plans for a live viewing at the Capital One Arena, which can host more than 20,000 people. The arena will provide an opportunity for crowds to gather and watch the inauguration and the accompanying Presidential Parade. President Trump has stated he intends to join the crowd at the arena later after his swearing-in ceremony.
Elevated Security Measures
With the inauguration moving indoors, the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies are revising their security plans. As you might expect, hosting a major national event indoors requires different strategies to ensure the safety of those in attendance. Law enforcement officials are working diligently to adapt operations to meet the challenges that come with an indoor setting, which is expected to look quite different from the planned outdoor festivities.
Historical Context and Concerns
While low temperatures are not unique to this year, they raise significant concerns for both staff and guests. The weather is expected to bring gusty winds of 10 to 20 mph, possibly creating even harsher conditions. A mix of rain and snow is also predicted in the days leading up to the event, casting a shadow on what is traditionally a jubilant occasion for the incoming administration.
