Festivities marking the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump have commenced, drawing both his supporters and protesters to Washington, D.C. The series of events, leading up to Monday’s swearing-in as the 47th president, began on Saturday with Trump’s arrival and a host of planned celebrations and demonstrations.
Trump’s schedule included his anticipated arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, followed by a reception and a fireworks show at his Virginia golf course. Additionally, Vice President-elect Vance was set to be honored at a Cabinet reception and dinner at the National Gallery of Art that evening.
In parallel, the D.C. People’s March, spearheaded by multiple activist organizations, began on Saturday morning. The demonstration culminated in a rally outside the Lincoln Memorial at 3 p.m., where approximately 50,000 participants were expected. The march showcased impassioned calls for change, with chants of unity led by organizers.
On Sunday, Trump plans to host a rally at Capital One Arena in Washington, featuring speeches from notable allies, including tech entrepreneur Elon Musk. The event is also set to include performances by artists such as the Village People, Kid Rock, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
The weather played a significant role in reshaping the inaugural plans. Although Saturday was mild, the forecast of a snowstorm and freezing temperatures prompted the ceremony to be relocated inside the Capitol on Monday.
Trump Heads to Washington
At 4:35 p.m. on Saturday, President-elect Trump, joined by his wife, Melania, and their son, Barron, boarded a plane at Palm Beach International Airport. Waving from the top of the stairs, Trump set off for Washington to prepare for his inauguration.
Earlier in the afternoon, Trump’s adult children and their families also departed for Washington. Eric and Lara Trump, alongside Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, and their children, were seen boarding the family’s plane at the airport. Trump himself was expected to leave at 4:30 p.m., traveling aboard an official government aircraft.
Dignitaries to Attend the Inauguration
Vice President-elect Vance is expected to participate in Monday’s ceremony, joining a host of prominent figures, including current President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and former President George W. Bush. The event’s relocation to an indoor venue underscores the logistical challenges posed by the severe weather.
Protests Amplify Voices
The People’s March, which concluded around 3 p.m. on Saturday, was marked by fervent chants of “I believe we will win!” as attendees rallied for justice and equality. Raquel Willis, co-founder of the Gender Liberation Movement, delivered a stirring speech urging attendees to assert their presence and power. “Take up space,” she proclaimed. “If you feel disempowered, if you feel angry and afraid, it’s time to take up space.”
Willis further emphasized inclusivity, advocating for autonomy and understanding across all gender identities. “If you know that women and girls and dolls and fems are the rulers of their own lives, take up space,” she declared. “If you know men and boys and masculine folk, especially my trans men and trans masculine folk, can be empathetic and understanding, take up space.”
Call for Ceasefire in Gaza
Palestinian rights advocate Iman Abid also addressed the crowd, urging an end to the ongoing violence in Gaza. As director of advocacy and organizing for the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, Abid called for a lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and demanded the cessation of U.S. arms sales to Israel.
“Days ago, we learned that a temporary ceasefire deal has been reached after over 15 months of Israel bombarding Gaza and massacring tens of thousands of Palestinians,” Abid said. “This is urgently needed relief, but it is only the beginning. We will not stop until the occupation ends, the blockades are lifted, and the violence ends.”
Abid’s remarks echoed the broader political divide over U.S. policy toward Israel. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, exacerbated by Hamas’ invasion of Israel, has stirred heated debates within the Democratic Party, influencing the presidential primary.
Snowstorm Looms Over Washington
As festivities continue, Washington braces for a significant winter storm. The predicted snowfall and freezing temperatures have added a layer of urgency to the logistical arrangements for Monday’s inauguration. With Trump’s allies and detractors converging in the capital, the weekend is shaping up to be a pivotal moment, both in celebration and resistance.
The upcoming events promise a mix of jubilance and defiance, reflecting the complex emotions surrounding Trump’s presidency. As Washington prepares for the historic ceremony, all eyes remain on the unfolding dynamics of America’s political landscape.