President-elect Donald Trump is set to take the oath of office on Monday in a unique indoor ceremony at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. The decision to move the event indoors marks the first time in 40 years that a U.S. presidential inauguration has been relocated due to severe weather conditions.
"There is an Arctic blast sweeping the country. I don’t want to see people hurt or injured in any way," Trump stated on his Truth Social platform. He announced that his inaugural address, along with prayers and other speeches, would be delivered in the Capitol Rotunda, ensuring the safety of attendees amid frigid temperatures and intense wind chills.
The last time an inauguration was moved indoors due to extreme cold was in 1985 during Ronald Reagan's second swearing-in. Then, the wind chill dropped to a bone-chilling minus 10 to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Monday’s forecast predicts a temperature of 19 F (minus 7 C) in Washington, but wind chills are expected to make it feel significantly colder.
Despite the adjustments, Trump emphasized that the spirit of the day would not be diminished. Supporters are invited to watch the ceremony live at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, which accommodates up to 20,000 people. Trump also announced that the traditional inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue would be adapted for the indoor venue. After being sworn in, he plans to join the crowd at the arena for a rally, ensuring a celebratory atmosphere.
The move indoors will drastically reduce the number of people able to witness the event in person. Over 220,000 ticketed guests were originally set to attend on the Capitol grounds, with an additional 250,000 unticketed members of the public expected to gather on the National Mall. The indoor location at the Capitol Rotunda and limited capacity at the arena mean only a fraction of these attendees can now participate.
While some supporters expressed disappointment, others, like school secretary Tammy Matte from Mississippi, chose to cancel their travel plans. "We don't feel it's worth it not to see the ceremony in person," Matte said.
In response to the weather-related changes, law enforcement and the U.S. Secret Service are coordinating closely with Trump’s inaugural committee to adapt security measures. Video screens already in place on the National Mall may still broadcast the ceremony, though officials have yet to confirm plans for public viewing on the Mall.
Frigid temperatures have historically been a hallmark of U.S. presidential inaugurations. Trump’s decision to prioritize safety reflects lessons from the past, such as William Henry Harrison’s ill-fated 1841 inauguration in cold, wet weather, which contributed to his untimely death.
As Donald Trump prepares to become the 47th President of the United States, his inaugural ceremony promises to be a memorable and unprecedented event, highlighting both tradition and adaptability. Despite the Arctic chill, the day remains a celebration of democracy and a testament to resilience.