Trump’s arrival in Washington was marked by a flight aboard an Air Force plane provided by outgoing President Joe Biden. The president-elect had been preparing for the transition in Palm Beach, Florida, following his victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 election.
Upon landing at Dulles Airport in suburban Virginia, Trump traveled to his golf club in Sterling, located on the outskirts of the capital. There, the Trumps joined a pre-inauguration bash, with the highlight being a fireworks display. A video posted by an aide to social media showed Leo Days, dressed as Elvis Presley, performing as the Trumps watched, enjoying the festive atmosphere.
????WOW: President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump watch a fireworks display set to “Hallelujah” in Sterling, VA.
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 19, 2025
The 78-year-old president-elect is scheduled to hold a rally with supporters at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington on Sunday, the eve of his inauguration. Another post-inauguration event is planned for Monday afternoon.
Due to an anticipated cold front, Trump decided to move the inauguration ceremony indoors. The iconic west front of the US Capitol will be bypassed, with the ceremony set to take place in the Capitol Rotunda. The traditional parade down Pennsylvania Avenue will also be redirected to the Capital One Arena.
At 10:30 p.m. IST on Monday, Trump will take the oath of office in the Rotunda, marking the beginning of his presidency. In his inaugural address, he intends to emphasise themes of “unity and strength” as well as “fairness.” This will be the first indoor inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s second term in 1985, a reflection of the unprecedented circumstances surrounding this year’s event.
First Published: Jan 19, 2025 12:49 PM IST
