WASHINGTON — Inauguration events for the new president are unfolding against the backdrop of heightened security measures, a sharp contrast to the previous ceremony characterized by a global pandemic and an intense siege at the U.S. Capitol. This year’s swearing-in on January 20 forms part of a series of significant security operations in the nation’s capital, aimed at ensuring a smooth transition of power amid modern-day challenges.
The inauguration caps a two-week series of national security events, featuring significant occasions that warrant additional federal funding and oversight from the U.S. Secret Service. Preceding the inauguration, notable events include the electoral vote count and the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter. Additionally, a rally supporting President-elect Donald Trump is scheduled for January 19 at the Capital One Arena.
“This is unprecedented,” remarked Matt McCool, the special agent leading the Washington field office of the U.S. Secret Service, highlighting the continuous flow of events. “Our team is adaptable, and we are thoroughly prepared for all eventualities.”
Trump, alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance, is set to take the oath of office at the Capitol’s west front under strict security measures. The visible presence of federal agents and police will be complemented by less conspicuous defenses, such as bomb detectors, snipers, and radiation detection equipment.
Outgoing President Joe Biden is expected to attend the inauguration, adhering to the tradition of former presidents participating in such ceremonies. Trump, representing the Republican Party, will also be breaking tradition by inviting world leaders to his inauguration, with Argentine President Javier Milei confirmed to attend.
The upcoming inauguration significantly diverges from Biden’s event four years earlier, which Trump boycotted amidst his unsubstantiated claims that the election was fraudulent, culminating in a riot at the Capitol. Following those events, over a thousand individuals faced legal repercussions, and Trump himself faced federal charges pertaining to his attempts to challenge the election outcome.
Following his victory in the 2024 presidential election, Trump has expressed intentions to pardon participants of the riot. Meanwhile, Biden reiterated his commitment in an opinion piece, emphasizing the significance of a peaceful transition of power and the importance of restoring traditional values established in the nation.
“I am determined to ensure the election process is certified peacefully,” he affirmed, adding that he invited the incoming president for a meeting prior to the inauguration, where he will also be present.
While law enforcement agencies brace for potential protests, they do not foresee major disturbances. “Currently, we are not monitoring any credible threats tied to these events,” commented Dave Sundberg, assistant director at the FBI’s Washington field office.
Nevertheless, federal agents remain on alert due to heightened threat levels, especially following a recent attack in New Orleans. National special security events permit collaboration among various law enforcement groups, circumventing bureaucratic hurdles typical of such gatherings. Besides the inauguration, other examples include the State of the Union address and the upcoming electoral count, which has gained the designation in light of past violence.
Approximately 7,800 members of the District of Columbia National Guard will be deployed to ensure perimeter security, assisting with traffic management and monitoring Metro stations, while a significant number of federal agents and local police are designated to maintain order.
The Secret Service, tasked with overseeing security for such national events, began preparations for this inauguration immediately after the last ceremony concluded. However, this year, they face increased scrutiny after two assassination attempts on Trump, which raised critical questions about inter-agency communication and coordination among local, county, and federal law enforcement.
Those involved in national security events, termed as the “Cadillac of security models,” ensure top-tier safety measures are in place, emphasized spokesperson Anthony Gugliemi. The collaboration will occur through a joint information center, where various agencies can coordinate efforts.
While special security designations provide extensive protection, not every demonstration can be classed in the same manner. To enhance security measures for the inauguration, the FBI has set up command posts to gather intelligence and coordinate responses. Field agents will be actively involved in evaluating potential threats and sharing vital information with other law enforcement agencies, ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice should any issues arise.
