Trump’s Inauguration Moved Indoors With Attendance Limited To Select Officials

President-elect Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration will now take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, sharply limiting attendance to about 2,000 people. The change comes after security concerns intensified following two assassination attempts and with dangerously cold weather expected in Washington, D.C.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed that most ticket holders will no longer be able to attend. The committee advised visitors to watch the ceremony from indoor locations 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.

FBI Director Christopher Wray stated that there are no credible or specific threats against the inauguration. However, he noted that the current security climate requires heightened vigilance due to the potential for extremist violence.

Trump cited severe winter weather as another reason for moving the event indoors. Forecasts predict temperatures dropping to 12°F, with wind chills making the conditions feel even colder. Trump expressed concern for the safety of the public and security personnel.

The inaugural parade and the official inaugural balls will also be relocated to Capital One Arena. The arena will host a live viewing of the swearing-in ceremony to accommodate supporters.

This adjustment marks the first indoor inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s second term in 1985, which was similarly relocated due to extreme weather conditions.