WASHINGTON — On the eve of his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump is engaging in a range of events across Washington that celebrate both his anticipated return to the White House and the “Make America Great Again” agenda. He prepares to take office amidst significant political divisions within the country.
In an unprecedented effort to ensure safety and security, the capital is well-prepared for the activities surrounding Trump’s swearing-in. Unlike the chaotic events of 2021, when Trump’s supporters stormed the Capitol following his electoral loss to Democrat Joe Biden, officials are not bracing for widespread protests or violence this time around. Instead, a sense of celebration is expected from supporters of Trump and the MAGA movement, which has strongly influenced the Republican Party’s direction.
This moment marks a significant shift from four years ago when Trump departed Washington in disgrace, skipping the inauguration ceremony of Biden. This time, he has emerged victorious in the 2024 GOP presidential primary and won the November election by a notable Electoral College margin not seen since Barack Obama’s reelection in 2012.
However, despite this substantial victory and a Republican-controlled Congress, Trump remains one of the most divisive figures in American political history, with opinions about him deeply polarized among the public. Achieving his promises of bipartisanship and political healing after the election may prove challenging. During an interview with NBC News, Trump indicated that his inaugural speech will focus on themes of unity, strength, and fairness.
Trump expressed enthusiasm for his inauguration, stating, “January 20th cannot come fast enough!” on his social media platform, while also encouraging those who initially opposed him to embrace the transition.
On Sunday, significant national and global issues caught his attention as he discussed a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, along with a federal ban on TikTok. He highlighted the release of hostages, expressing hope regarding three individuals’ recovery on social media.
As a federal ban on TikTok took effect, millions of U.S. users found themselves unable to access the app. TikTok appealed directly to Trump, expressing optimism about collaborating with him for a resolution once he assumes office. Trump responded with a call to “SAVE TIKTOK!”
Michael Waltz, the incoming national security adviser, mentioned that Trump addressed the TikTok situation during a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The pair agreed to work toward a solution; Waltz referred to the ban as “extremely problematic” and expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to negotiate a resolution swiftly.
Staying true to tradition, Trump spent Saturday night at the Blair House, the official residence for presidential guests, and hosted a private breakfast with Republican senators on Sunday morning. His return to Washington followed a celebratory party at his golf club, which included a fireworks display.
Traveling back to the capital from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump boarded a C-32, a military variant of the Boeing 757, sporting the classic presidential colors. This plane, designated Special Air Mission 47, would be known as Air Force One during his presidency.
Sunday marked Trump’s first complete day back in Washington since his election, providing him an opportunity to connect with his supporters before the official celebrations of Inauguration Day, which include a swearing-in ceremony set for noon. He allocated time to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier prior to addressing a rally at Capital One Arena, home to Washington’s professional basketball and hockey teams.
With cold temperatures predicted for Monday, Trump directed that his oath of office be moved to the Capitol Rotunda and suggested that most outdoor events be adjusted accordingly. A modified version of the traditional parade will also take place at Capital One Arena. Additionally, Trump was scheduled to attend a candlelight dinner on Sunday evening where he would likely deliver remarks.
On his last day in office, President Biden is set to visit South Carolina, a state where he achieved his momentum during the 2020 Democratic primary. Joined by first lady Jill Biden, he will worship and speak about the legacy of the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., as Monday coincides with the federal holiday honoring the civil rights leader. In his farewell address earlier that week, Biden warned of an emerging “oligarchy” of wealth that threatens democracy in America.
