In a significant change to the inauguration plans, President-elect Donald Trump announced on Friday that Monday’s inauguration ceremony for himself and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will take place inside the Capitol due to severe weather conditions. Trump cited the dangerously low temperatures expected in Washington, D.C., as the reason for the adjustment.
“There is an Arctic blast sweeping the country,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “I don’t want to see people hurt or injured in any way. Therefore, I have ordered the Inauguration Address, along with prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda, as was done by Ronald Reagan in 1985, also because of very cold weather.”
Forecasts predict temperatures in the teens and low 20s on Monday, coupled with heavy winds and potential snow a day before the event. These harsh conditions prompted the decision to move the ceremony from the outdoor platform traditionally used for presidential inaugurations to the Capitol Rotunda. The Rotunda, a historic space beneath the Capitol dome, is commonly reserved for congressional ceremonies and state events.
Trump assured supporters that the modified ceremony would still be accessible to the public. Capital One Arena in downtown Washington will serve as a venue for supporters to watch the inauguration live. Trump also announced that he would visit the arena after being sworn in. The arena, with a capacity of approximately 20,000, will also host the presidential parade. This is a fraction of the number of people expected to visit Washington for the historic event.
While a limited number of VIP guests and dignitaries will be allowed inside the Rotunda, space will be extremely restricted. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed that the majority of ticketed guests would not be able to attend in person, urging attendees to consider alternative venues for indoor viewing.
The committee stated, “At this time, we know that those with tickets for the Presidential Platform and members of Congress will be able to attend in person. While we know this is difficult for many attendees, we strongly suggest people who are in Washington for the event attend other indoor events or venues of their choice to watch the inauguration.”
The decision to move the ceremony indoors was confirmed by the president-elect, with two law enforcement sources stating that the contingency plan had been in place for months. CNN initially reported the move, and senior officials in Washington emphasized that the decision was ultimately Trump’s call.
Historical precedents exist for such a move. In 1985, President Ronald Reagan’s second inaugural ceremony was moved to the Capitol Rotunda due to extreme weather conditions. On that day, temperatures were a frigid 7 degrees, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Reagan’s indoor ceremony was packed, with standing-room-only available for dignitaries and officials.
Trump’s announcement also highlighted efforts to ensure the inauguration remains a memorable experience for those attending or watching remotely. “This will be a very beautiful experience for all, especially for the large TV audience,” he said. The ceremony will proceed as planned with prayers, speeches, and the oath of office, albeit in a warmer and more controlled environment.
As Washington braces for the Arctic blast, preparations continue for the modified inauguration. Trump’s team and local authorities aim to ensure the event proceeds smoothly and safely while accommodating as many attendees as possible within the constraints of the weather and the venue.
