Trump’s Inauguration Attendance Cut As Ceremony Moves Indoors For Safety

President-elect Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration will now take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda with attendance limited to around 2,000 people. The shift comes amid rising security concerns and dangerously low temperatures expected in Washington, D.C.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed that the majority of ticket holders would not be allowed to attend the ceremony. The committee recommended that visitors in the capital seek alternative indoor locations to view the event.

“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 said.

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FBI Director Christopher Wray stated that while there are no credible threats to the event, security officials are on high alert due to the current risk environment. Wray emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting other security teams in safeguarding the inauguration.

Forecasts for Inauguration Day predict temperatures as low as 12°F, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Trump cited the safety of attendees and security personnel as a key reason for moving the ceremony indoors.

The inaugural parade and official celebrations have also been moved indoors to Capital One Arena. The arena will provide a live broadcast of the swearing-in for members of the public who cannot attend in person.

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