U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced on Friday night, January 17, that his inauguration will take place inside the Capitol Rotunda on January 20 due to the extreme cold weather conditions expected in Washington, D.C.
The decision comes as temperatures are forecast to plummet, with freezing conditions and lingering snow from a storm earlier in the month.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed concern for the safety of attendees and participants, stating, “I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way.”
He continued, emphasizing the risk posed to law enforcement, first responders, and supporters who would be outside in the harsh conditions for hours. He jokingly added, “In any event, if you decide to come, dress warmly!”
While the inauguration itself will be held indoors, Trump announced that a viewing party would take place at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.

READ ALSO: Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban – Trump Responds
The arena, home to the Washington Capitals and Wizards, has a seating capacity of 20,000. Trump also plans to join the crowd for the inaugural parade following the ceremony, which will still proceed as scheduled.
Despite the venue change for the swearing-in, Trump confirmed that other events, including the victory rally at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, and the three inaugural balls on Monday night, January 20, will continue as planned.
Interestingly, this is not the first time an inauguration has been held in the Capitol Rotunda. Former President Ronald Reagan’s second swearing-in was moved there in 1985 for similar cold weather concerns.
As inauguration day approaches, the decision to move the ceremony indoors aims to ensure the safety and comfort of all those involved, despite the winter chill gripping the nation’s capital.