Trump’s Swearing-In Ceremony Moved Inside Capitol As Safety Concerns Grow

President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration will now take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on January 20, with access restricted to approximately 2,000 guests. This significant change was driven by growing security concerns and the forecast of dangerously cold temperatures in Washington, D.C.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies announced that most ticket holders will no longer be admitted to the event. They advised visitors in the area to consider attending alternative indoor viewing events throughout the city.

“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 advised.

Security concerns have been a central focus leading up to the event. Although FBI Director Christopher Wray reported that there are no credible threats, he stressed that authorities remain vigilant due to the unpredictable security climate.

Severe weather conditions also factored heavily into the decision. Forecasts show temperatures could drop to 12°F with strong wind chills. Trump expressed his priority was protecting the safety of attendees, law enforcement, and emergency personnel.

The inaugural parade and related celebrations have also been moved indoors to Capital One Arena. The arena will broadcast the swearing-in ceremony live, allowing the public to join the event in safer conditions.

This relocation is the first of its kind since Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985, which was similarly moved indoors due to extreme weather.