On Jan. 20, 2025, Donald Trump will be sworn in for the second time as President of the United States on Capitol Hill, in an inauguration ceremony that officials say will be among the most lavish in the country’s history.
To ensure security and a smooth transfer of power, there will be approximately 25,000 police officers and nearly 8,000 U.S. Army soldiers in attendance. Fleets of drones and more than 30 miles of fencing will be deployed to prevent potential disturbances and protect the president-elect, along with other state leaders and participants.
Although no threats against Trump have been reported, officials said they are prepared to handle any emergency, with FBI offices activated. The security arrangements will involve around 25,000 police and National Guard members from every state, ready to guard every access from the National Mall.
Throughout Monday, all flights over Washington will be suspended and drones will be used to monitor the air situation. Hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the country are expected to arrive to watch the ceremony, and Capitol Police have imposed strict security controls, banning the carrying of laptops, water bottles and banners.
A coalition of protest groups has announced a “People’s March” for Saturday, two days before the ceremony, to contest Trump’s election victory. Participants will include reproductive rights activists from Planned Parenthood, National Women’s Law Center, Abortion Access Now, and Women’s March.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said all city resources will be used to ensure the smooth running of the ceremony. “Every four years, the District is proud to support the peaceful transfer of power,” she said. “We are proud of this responsibility and grateful to our federal partners, local agencies and community members who work together to ensure a safe and secure event.”
The inauguration will be held after two other ceremonies considered Special National Security events: the certification of the election result that took place on Jan. 6 and Jimmy Carter’s state funeral three days later.
With the inauguration ceremony concluded, Trump and his wife Melania will proceed to the White House, where more ceremonies with staff are planned.
