On the day before his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump is engaging in a variety of events around Washington D.C. to celebrate his impending return to the White House and his “Make America Great Again” initiative, all while the nation grapples with significant political divisions.
A large number of Trump supporters, many dressed in their finest attire, have gathered from various parts of the country to attend both formal and informal gatherings at local hotels and restaurants near the White House. The celebrations continued late into the night, with attendees often heard chanting “MAGA” or greeting each other with the phrase.
The city of Washington has implemented heightened security measures to ensure the events progress safely. Unlike the riots that occurred on January 6, 2021, when Trump incited a mob to storm the Capitol, officials are not predicting widespread protests or violence this time. Instead, they anticipate a vibrant atmosphere filled with supporters celebrating Trump’s second term and the dominance of MAGA ideology within the Republican Party.
This is a stark contrast to four years ago when Trump departed from D.C. amid controversy and did not attend the inauguration of his successor. Since then, he has surged through the 2024 GOP presidential primary, securing election victory in November with an Electoral College margin reminiscent of Barack Obama’s 2012 win.
Despite his recent electoral success and the Republican Party having a narrow hold on Congress, Trump remains a highly divisive figure, facing strong opposition as well as passionate support. This division poses challenges for him as he aims to deliver on pledges of bipartisanship and healing political rifts. He has emphasized that his inauguration speech will focus on themes of unity, strength, and fairness.
“January 20th cannot come fast enough! Everyone, even those who initially opposed me, just want to see this happen,” Trump expressed on his social media platform.
While observing national and global events, Trump made comments regarding the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as well as the federal ban on TikTok. He mentioned a positive development regarding hostages being released, noting, “Hostages starting to come out today! Three wonderful young women will be first.”
The TikTok ban has impacted millions of users in the U.S., as the prohibition became effective and is tied to national security concerns, demanding that the app’s China-based parent company, ByteDance, must divest its interests.
TikTok’s representatives reached out to Trump, expressing optimism for a solution, stating, “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office.” In response, Trump urged, “I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark!” Additionally, he pledged to issue an executive order to delay the enforcement of the ban to negotiate a deal that would ensure national security.
Speculation surrounds how Trump can navigate this legal situation, yet incoming national security advisor Michael Waltz expressed confidence that Trump can forge a compromise quickly.
Traditionally, Trump is staying at Blair House, the official guest residence, on the evening before his inauguration. He also hosted a private breakfast gathering with Republican senators on Sunday.
After an event at his golf club in Sterling, Virginia, where a fireworks display lit up the sky, Trump traveled back to D.C. on a C-32 military aircraft, which sported the recognizable presidential color scheme. This flight is designated as Special Air Mission 47 and is known as Air Force One only when the president is on board.
Sunday marked Trump’s first full day back in the capital since his election, allowing him to celebrate with supporters ahead of the formalities awaiting him on Inauguration Day. He intends to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery and address a rally later at Capital One Arena, home of the city’s professional basketball and hockey teams.
With cold weather forecasted for Monday, Trump has arranged for his swearing-in ceremony and many outdoor events to take place indoors, specifically in the Capitol Rotunda, while the traditional parade is planned to occur, in some form, at Capital One Arena. Additionally, he is expected to speak at a candlelight dinner later on Sunday.
