On January 20, 2021, at noon, the United States will begin a new page in its history: 46th President Joe Biden will officially take office.
However, due to the increasing number of COVID cases, massive armed protests, and Donald Trump’s public refusal to attend the ceremony, this inauguration will be very special.
Enhanced security measures
Unfortunately, due to recent events, as well as the impeachment of Trump, the United States government is afraid of new attempts of armed actions. As a result, the authorities have decided to strengthen security. So, about 20 thousand National Guard troops are expected to be in the US Capitol. Besides, Washington DC is currently under a state of emergency.
In addition, the rehearsal for the ceremony, as well as the planned 90-minute train ride for Biden and his team, was postponed due to security concerns.
Meanwhile, the government hopes for the prudence of the Americans and encourages people to respect the rule of law.
Ceremony Changes Due to COVID Pandemic
In general, the inauguration ceremony is one of the most solemn events for US citizens and residents. Millions of people of different ages, nationalities, social status come to the capital to welcome the new Head of state.
Needless to say that about two million people attended the inauguration of Barack Obama.
However, this year, due to the growth of the pandemic COVID, the authorities are urging Americans to avoid traveling to the capital. Even the number of entrance tickets was cut in half. By the way, earlier, the US government has provided around 2,000 tickets.
Furthermore, due to the pandemic, the committee has decided not to hold the traditional inaugural luncheon to honor the new president and vice president.
But on the other hand, don’t be upset about these changes. Indeed, this time the ceremony promises to surprise with its innovations in a virtual format, and everyone can watch it on the Internet.
Trump’s presence at the inauguration ceremony
First of all, according to tradition, the outgoing president visits the ceremony and congratulates his successor. It underlines the peaceful transfer of power. But there will be changes this year. Donald Trump will not attend the inauguration ceremony. He recently tweeted about this decision:
“To all of those who have asked, I will not be going to the Inauguration on January 20th.”
By the way, this will be the first time since 1869. Then Andrew Johnson refused to go to the ceremony to Ulysses Grant.
At the same time, president-elect Joe Biden reacted approvingly to this message:
“…one of the few things we have ever agreed on. It’s a good thing him not showing up.”
Details of the ceremony
Based on the latest information, the inauguration will take place this Wednesday, January 20, 2021. It will be on the west front of the US Capitol. It is worth noting that the term of the elected US president begins at noon on the same day. In addition, before assuming duties, Joe Biden must take the oath. And after that, he will deliver his inaugural speech.
Moreover, the ceremony will be broadcast online. You can watch it on the official inaugural website or on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, and Amazon Prime Video. The exact airtime is not confirmed yet, although it traditionally takes place at 11:30 am ET/8:30 a.m. PT.
Finally, instead of the traditional celebration on Inauguration Night, everyone can enjoy the unique 90-minute primetime program “Celebrating America”. It will be dedicated to the oath of the newly elected Head of state. And such famous artists as Jennifer Lopez, Demi Lovato, Justin Timberlake, John Legend, and others will delight with their performances.
