Trump’s Inauguration Moved Indoors As Security And Weather Concerns Escalate

President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration on January 20 will now be held inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, with attendance cut to roughly 2,000 people. This decision comes amid heightened security concerns and forecasts of dangerously cold temperatures in Washington, D.C.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies announced that most ticket holders would no longer be admitted to the event. The committee urged visitors already in Washington to seek alternative indoor locations to watch the ceremony.

“While we know this is difficult for many attendees, we strongly suggest people who are in Washington for the event attend other indoor venues of their choice to watch the inauguration,” the committee stated.

FBI Director Christopher Wray acknowledged the tense security environment but confirmed there are no credible threats to the inauguration. He emphasized that law enforcement agencies are working together to provide comprehensive security for the event.

Bitterly cold weather was another major factor in moving the ceremony indoors. Temperatures are predicted to drop as low as 12°F with dangerous wind chills. Trump expressed his concern for the safety of attendees, law enforcement officers, and first responders, stating that holding the event indoors would minimize risks.

In addition to the swearing-in ceremony, the inaugural parade and official balls will be moved to Capital One Arena. The arena will provide a live broadcast of the inauguration for those unable to attend in person.

This relocation marks the first indoor presidential inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s second term in 1985, which was also moved inside due to severe winter weather.