WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump landed in the Washington area Saturday evening, kicking off festivities for his upcoming inauguration.
Arrival in Washington
Trump traveled aboard an Air Force plane sent by outgoing President Joe Biden. He departed from Palm Beach, Florida, where he had prepared his transition after winning the November 5 election against Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris.
Melania Trump, Ivanka Trump, and her husband Jared Kushner accompanied Trump on the flight, which landed at Dulles Airport in Virginia. From there, Trump headed to his golf club in Sterling, Virginia, on Washington’s outskirts.
Celebrations Begin
Festivities included a performance by Elvis Presley impersonator Leo Days, who serenaded Trump and Melania. The event led to a reception for approximately 500 guests, followed by a fireworks display.
An aide shared a video showing the impersonator singing as the Trumps watched. The celebration marked the start of the formal inaugural events.
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Inauguration and Adjustments
The inauguration, affected by record cold temperatures, will restrict in-person attendance. Over 220,000 ticketed spectators had planned to witness the swearing-in from the U.S. Capitol grounds. However, only a fraction can now be accommodated indoors at the 20,000-seat Capital One Arena.
The arena will host a broadcast of the swearing-in ceremony, along with performances by parade entertainers and participants. Adjustments reflect efforts to balance safety and celebration.
Symbolic Return to Office
Trump’s arrival and the accompanying events underscore his return to the presidency. The planned festivities symbolize a new chapter in his political journey.