As the day before his inauguration unfolds, President-elect Donald Trump is engaging in a variety of events in Washington, D.C., that honor his return to the presidency alongside his “Make America Great Again” campaign. These celebrations arrive at a time when the nation is highly polarized politically.
Supporters of Trump have gathered in large numbers, many arriving from across the country dressed in their most extravagant attire, including fur coats, participating in both formal and informal parties at various venues near the White House that carried on into the late hours. As they traversed from one event to the next, it was common to hear chants of “MAGA” or see it exchanged as a friendly greeting among participants.
In light of these events, the capital has made extensive preparations to ensure the safety and security of those attending. In stark contrast to the chaos seen previously when Trump’s supporters stormed the Capitol in 2021 in an attempt to contest Biden’s victory, officials do not predict significant protests or violence this time. Instead, the focus appears to be on celebrations for Trump’s upcoming term and the solidified grip of MAGA supporters on the Republican Party.
This marks a notable shift for Trump, who left Washington four years ago amidst controversy, skipping the inauguration of his successor. After navigating a successful 2024 GOP presidential primary, Trump won the election in November with an Electoral College advantage not seen since Barack Obama’s re-election in 2012.
Despite this victory and a narrow Republican majority in Congress, Trump remains one of the most divisive figures in recent U.S. history, boasting a mix of haters and fervent fans. This reality casts doubt on his ability to deliver on post-election promises of fostering bipartisan cooperation and mending political rifts. In his upcoming inauguration address, Trump pledged that themes of unity, strength, and fairness would be front and center.
With frigid weather anticipated for his swearing-in day, Trump has decided that his oath and many festivities initially planned for the outdoors will now occur indoors. A rehearsal took place in the U.S. Capitol, but there are concerns regarding the venue’s limited capacity of 600, leading to uncertainty about whether the 250,000 ticketed guests will be able to witness the inauguration celebrations firsthand.
While large screens that were previously set up on the National Mall have been dismantled, arrangements for alternative indoor viewing options are expected to be announced. Some components of the traditional parade are set to go forward, potentially at the Capital One Arena.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Trump shared, “January 20th cannot come fast enough!” on his social media channel, adding that even those who initially opposed his victory now look forward to the event.
On the global front, Trump made headlines Sunday with comments regarding significant events internationally, including a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the U.S. prohibition on TikTok. He noted, “Hostages starting to come out today! Three wonderful young women will be the first,” signaling engagement with crucial global issues.
As the federal ban on TikTok came into effect, millions of users in the U.S. were suddenly unable to access the app. This was a result of a law aimed at addressing national security concerns associated with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. The company reached out to Trump, hoping for his intervention to reinstate TikTok.
In response, Trump called for companies to ensure that TikTok remains operational, committing to issue an executive order aimed at granting a reprieve before the law’s prohibitions take hold, thus facilitating negotiations to secure national security.
The practicalities of his proposed actions in light of the existing ban remain uncertain. He expressed interest in a new business model that would involve the U.S. taking a 50% stake in TikTok as part of a joint venture. Incoming national security adviser Michael Waltz expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to navigate these discussions smoothly.
In keeping with tradition, Trump chose to spend Saturday night at Blair House, the official guest residence, where he hosted a private breakfast with GOP senators on Sunday. His return to Washington commenced from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, aboard a military aircraft with the Boeing 757’s official presidential color scheme.
Sunday marks Trump’s first full day back in Washington since the election, providing him an opportunity to immerse himself in the celebrations and energize his supporters ahead of the more formal events of Inauguration Day, including the ceremonial swearing-in at noon.
Plans included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a rally expected to take place at Capital One Arena later in the evening, culminating in a candlelight dinner where he is anticipated to address his guests.
