Trump’s Inauguration Relocated Indoors With Attendance Drastically Cut

President-elect Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration has been moved indoors to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda due to severe security concerns and dangerously low temperatures forecasted for Washington, D.C. Attendance will now be limited to roughly 2,000 people, significantly fewer than initially planned.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed the decision and announced that most ticket holders would no longer be able to attend in person. The committee advised visitors to find indoor venues throughout the city to view the event safely.

“While we know this is difficult for many attendees, we strongly suggest people who are in Washington for the event attend other indoor venues of their choice to watch the inauguration,” the committee said in a statement.

FBI Director Christopher Wray addressed concerns about possible threats but assured the public that no specific or credible threats have been identified. Still, he acknowledged the ongoing security risks posed by both domestic and foreign extremists.

In addition to safety concerns, frigid weather contributed to the move indoors. Forecasts predict temperatures as low as 12°F, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Trump stated that the safety of attendees and law enforcement officers was his top priority.

The inaugural parade and official inaugural balls will also be moved indoors to Capital One Arena, where the public will have the opportunity to view a live broadcast of the swearing-in ceremony.

This change marks the first indoor presidential inauguration since Ronald Reagan’s in 1985, which was also moved due to extreme winter conditions.