WASHINGTON — Here’s the latest update following President-elect Donald Trump’s inaugural weekend events. His first full day back in the capital since winning the election saw a raucous victory rally where Republicans expressed hopeful enthusiasm, even amidst significant national political divides, just a day before his inauguration.
1. Victory Rally Guests: The rally, hosted at Capital One Arena, featured notable supporters including musicians Lee Greenwood and Kid Rock, tech tycoon Elon Musk, and actor Jon Voight gracing the stage.
2. Foreign Dignitaries Arrive: In an unprecedented move for an inauguration, heads of state such as Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, and Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni are present in Washington, making official visits.
3. TikTok’s Service Restored: Trump announced a delay on the previously planned TikTok ban, granting the app’s parent company more time to find a suitable buyer, leading to the restoration of its services in the U.S.
During a gala event named the “Legacy of Freedom Ball,” attended by a gathering of Black conservatives, momentum and solidarity with Trump’s administration were palpable. Virginia’s Lt. Governor Winsome Sears emphasized economic progress within the Black community and encouraged a new dialogue under Trump’s leadership about crime and entrepreneurship opportunities, while urging for a reexamination of support for him among Black voters who previously favored Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump is slated to retreat to the Blair House after his energetic rally for a candlelight dinner closed to the media. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, will head to California after attending Trump’s inauguration, wrapping up their own presidential responsibilities and taking a farewells from their staff.
In his rally, Trump also invoked the controversial concept of “racehorse theory” while praising Musk and his son, stirring some controversy with implications of the phrase’s historical context. He concluded the evening with excitement, as the Village People performed “YMCA,” a lively wrap-up that became emblematic of his campaign.
Regarding the recent California wildfires that tragically took lives and caused extensive damage, Trump pledged to visit the affected areas, promising to help rebuild. Attention was also given to hurricane survivors in North Carolina, where he expressed that they have not received adequate support.
The crowd roared approval when Trump touted the benefits of TikTok’s return, claiming it has revitalized youth engagement and stood as a rejection of giving business preferences to China. He alluded to the possibility of a U.S. ownership structure for TikTok, aiming to create economic opportunities.
Trump claimed that if it weren’t for his election, vital ceasefire agreements involving hostages would not have materialized, delineating the successes of his previous administration, while underlining an optimistic economic outlook marked by soaring stock values and Bitcoin highs since his election.
As Trump approached the stage, his family rallied excitement with personal anecdotes and pledges of allegiance from younger members. Notably, Melania Trump attracted attention by launching her own cryptocurrency days after her husband’s coin surged, symbolizing their shared commitment to a welcoming environment for crypto innovation.
The inauguration weekend also saw gatherings of prominent Cabinet appointees at dinner and breakfast forums aimed at reinforcing a united front as they prepared for the new administration. Trump stressed the commitment to strong immigration policies during the pre-inaugural rally.
The Hispanic Inaugural Ball highlighted strong ties with Latin American leaders supporting Trump’s agenda, showcasing connections with conservative economists like Argentina’s Milei, and emphasizing the potential for deeper international collaboration.
As moving day approaches at the White House, Melania Trump has shared her experiences from their previous presidential transition, indicating enhancements made to streamline the process this time around. Her remarks reflect a sense of readiness and the significance of orderly changeover as both families prepare for the event.
Looking ahead, the inauguration of Trump promises grandeur amidst weather-induced modifications. Global leaders and influential personalities have returned, reflecting a contrast to Trump’s former term antagonism. Those attending can expect a vibrant ceremony, compelling performances, and a united Republican front poised to take office.
