The inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance has been relocated indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to what is forecasted to be the coldest Inauguration Day in over 40 years. The decision mirrors the move made in 1985 during Ronald Reagan’s second-term swearing-in, also prompted by freezing temperatures.
President Trump announced the change via Truth Social on Friday, stating:
“I have ordered the Inauguration Address, prayers, and other speeches to be delivered in the Capitol Rotunda to ensure the safety of all attendees.”
Preparations are underway, with workers assembling a platform in the Rotunda. The U.S. Capitol Police confirmed that ticketed outdoor areas will remain closed due to the extreme cold, restricting public access near the Capitol during the ceremony.
Meanwhile, a growing number of Democratic lawmakers have announced they will skip the event, signaling political tensions.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Homeland Security, faced intense scrutiny during her Senate confirmation hearing. Senators pressed Noem on whether she would oppose the president-elect if he threatened federal disaster aid to Democratic states.
Trump has hinted at investigating the FBI’s recently closed Office of Diversity and Inclusion, alleging corruption.
Canada plans retaliatory tariffs targeting U.S. goods should Trump implement a proposed 25% tariff on Canadian imports.
National Guard troops at the inauguration will wear special patches to distinguish themselves from law enforcement.
Trump’s transition team is preparing executive orders expected to reverse several Biden-era policies, with a focus on immigration reforms.
As the nation braces for an unusual inauguration day, political divides and logistical challenges dominate the spotlight.
