In a surprising twist for the upcoming inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump announced that the ceremony will be held indoors instead of the traditional outdoor setting. This decision is largely due to the dangerously low temperatures expected in Washington, D.C., with forecasts predicting it could be as chilly as 18 to 19 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it one of the coldest inaugurations on record, reminiscent of Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985, which was also moved indoors.

Why the Change in Location?

The announcement came as the forecast indicated that frigid temperatures would create discomfort and safety concerns for those attending. With this in mind, the inauguration will take place in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, where the warmth and shelter of the building provide a more hospitable environment for attendees. Surprisingly, many ticketed guests will not be able to attend in person due to the limited capacity of the Rotunda, which can accommodate just about 700 people, primarily made up of members of Congress and other VIPs.

Live Viewing Opportunities at Capital One Arena

In an effort to include as many people as possible, the Capital One Arena has stepped in to host a live viewing of both the inauguration and the parade that follows. The arena can hold over 20,000 spectators, allowing more individuals to participate in the day’s significant events through a shared experience. After being sworn in, President Trump is expected to join the audience at Capital One Arena, making it a memorable gathering for his supporters.

Adjusting Security Plans

With the move indoors, law enforcement agencies have had to adapt their security plans quickly to account for the smaller crowd expected at the Rotunda. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, responsible for coordinating the events, has confirmed that necessary measures will be in place to ensure everyone’s safety, even with the sudden changes to the venue and guest list.

Ticketing Changes and Commemorative Tickets

Many ticket holders may be surprised to learn that their tickets have now transformed into what the House Sergeant at Arms describes as “commemorative tickets”. This means that while they can no longer attend the in-person event at the Capitol, those who hold these tickets will retain a special memento from this unique inauguration.

Reflections on the Inauguration’s Weather

This upcoming inauguration marks a significant moment not just for President Trump, but for the history of presidential inaugurations. As temperatures drop uncomfortably low, Washington, D.C. has witnessed a surge in hotel bookings, with rooms now going for prices as high as $1,500 per night. Many residents have decided to leave the city altogether to avoid the anticipated crowds and the atmosphere surrounding the event, illustrating the deep divisions present in the nation right now.

Public Reception and Air of Controversy

Public sentiment regarding the inauguration is mixed, with some residents expressing their desire to avoid the “negative energy” that they associate with President Trump’s administration. As with previous elections, this inauguration reflects the ongoing political polarization within the country, making it a topic of significant discussion both locally and nationally.