Supporters gather outside Capital One Arena, ahead of a rally for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump the day before he is scheduled to be inaugurated for a second term, in Washington, U.S., January 19, 2025. REUTERS/Marko Djurica
Thousands Gather for Trump’s Victory Rally Ahead of Inauguration
Supporters Brave Weather for Historic Event
Thousands of supporters of President-elect Donald Trump waited for hours in freezing rain to attend the “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” on Sunday, held at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The rally, a precursor to Monday’s inauguration, showcased Trump’s agenda and celebrated his return to the White House.
Trump began his day with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, saluting as a military bugler played “Taps.” The 78-year-old Republican is set to re-enter office with plans to implement sweeping changes to U.S. immigration and trade policies.
Supporters Show Dedication
Despite the harsh weather, attendees arrived early, many wearing Trump’s signature red jackets and MAGA hats. The line stretched for blocks, with chants of “USA! USA!” echoing through downtown Washington. Val Tordjman, a supporter from Denver, expressed his excitement despite the conditions. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said.
Temperatures are expected to drop to 19°F (-7°C) overnight, but that did not deter Tordjman and others from camping outside the venue to secure a spot for the rally.
Rally Previews Policy Focus
The rally is expected to preview Trump’s second-term priorities. In recent interviews, incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz emphasized immigration as a top agenda item. “The American people gave him a clear mandate: lock down our border, deport the worst of the worst, take on the cartels,” Waltz said.
Energy policies and efforts to curb diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are also slated for early executive actions. Trump hosted a breakfast meeting with Republican senators, including John Cornyn, Ted Cruz, and Tim Scott, at Blair House to discuss his legislative agenda.
Star-Studded Event and High-Profile Speakers
The rally features an array of high-profile figures, including Elon Musk, a major Trump supporter who contributed over $250 million to his campaign. Other speakers include Vice President-elect JD Vance, UFC CEO Dana White, and commentators Charlie Kirk and Megyn Kelly.
Entertainment includes performances by Kid Rock, The Village People, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Lee Greenwood. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is also attending, following Trump’s announcement to lift the app’s ban in the U.S.
Security and Final Preparations
The city has implemented extensive security measures, with 25,000 law enforcement personnel deployed around key areas near the Capitol and White House. Steel barricades and police checkpoints are in place to ensure safety.
Inauguration Details
Due to cold weather, the inauguration ceremony has been moved indoors to the Capitol rotunda and will take place at noon ET on Monday. Trump will take the presidential oath, marking the start of his second term.
Meanwhile, outgoing President Joe Biden marked his final official trip with a visit to Charleston, South Carolina, to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Biden delivered remarks at Royal Missionary Baptist Church, reflecting on King’s legacy.
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