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Millions of Americans are counting down the days until President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.
On Friday morning, Fox News announced that the swearing in ceremony would be moved indoors due to extreme cold temperatures and wind chills in the nation’s capital.
President Ronald Reagan’s swearing-in for his second term in 1985 was the only other time the ceremony was held indoors. The outlet reported that Monday’s temperatures would be the coldest on Inauguration Day in 40 years.
Trump provided a detailed explanation in a lengthy Truth Social post.
“January 20th cannot come fast enough! Everybody, even those that initially opposed a Victory by President Donald J. Trump and the Trump Administration, just want it to happen.” He wrote.
“It is my obligation to protect the People of our Country but, before we even begin, we have to think of the Inauguration itself. The weather forecast for Washington, D.C., with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows. There is an Arctic blast sweeping the Country.” Trump continued.
He then detailed the reason behind his decision. “I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way. It is dangerous conditions for the tens of thousands of Law Enforcement, First Responders, Police K9s and even horses, and hundreds of thousands of supporters that will be outside for many hours on the 20th (In any event, if you decide to come, dress warmly!).”
“Therefore, I have ordered the Inauguration Address, in addition to prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda, as was used by Ronald Reagan in 1985, also because of very cold weather. The various Dignitaries and Guests will be brought into the Capitol. This will be a very beautiful experience for all, and especially for the large TV audience!” Trump wrote.
The 45th and soon-to-be 47th President wrote, “We will open Capital One Arena on Monday for LIVE viewing of this Historic event, and to host the Presidential Parade. I will join the crowd at Capital One, after my Swearing In. All other events will remain the same, including the Victory Rally at Capital One Arena, on Sunday at 3 P.M. (Doors open at 1 P.M.—Please arrive early!), and all three Inaugural Balls on Monday evening.”
“Everyone will be safe, everyone will be happy, and we will, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump concluded.
The public response on social media was positive, with users discussing increased safety from evil actors and others just ready for his presidency to begin.
Turning Point Action’s Charlie Kirk wrote on X, formerly Twitter, “As long as he’s sworn in, that’s all that matters.”