Synopsis
Donald Trump’s supporters gathered in Washington for a victory rally before his inauguration, showcasing plans to reshape U.S. immigration and trade policies. The event featured speeches from Trump and key allies, with heightened security measures in place.Key Takeaways
- Thousands attended Trump's victory rally in Washington.
- Trump laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- Significant focus on immigration and trade policy in the upcoming term.
- High-profile speakers included Elon Musk and UFC CEO Dana White.
- Strong security presence with 25,000 law enforcement officers.
Washington, Jan 20 (NationPress) Thousands of Donald Trump's supporters braved the cold and rain, waiting for hours to participate in his victory rally on Sunday, just one day prior to the President-elect's return to power, with intentions to vigorously reform US immigration and trade policy.
The Republican leader, 78, started his day by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery before delivering his first significant speech in Washington since the January 6, 2021 rally that preceded the assault on the US Capitol.
Trump honored the tomb as a military bugler played "Taps".
The "Make America Great Again Victory Rally" was scheduled to commence at 3 p.m. ET (2000 GMT) at Capital One Arena, an indoor venue for hockey and basketball, which will also host some of the inauguration festivities on Monday after forecasts of severe cold led to the cancellation of an outdoor celebration.
The line of supporters, many sporting Trump's iconic red jackets and MAGA hats, extended over several blocks in downtown Washington. Some were chanting "USA! USA!" while others used megaphones as they awaited entry.
Trump is set to address the crowd later on Sunday, alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance and their families at the Capital One Arena.
Extensive areas around the US Capitol and White House have been secured with steel fencing since last week, and a substantial police presence has been noted throughout the vicinity.
This rally, along with his inaugural address on Monday, could provide insight into the tone he intends to adopt during his second term in the White House. In recent weeks, Trump has puzzled foreign allies with remarks about acquiring Greenland, the Panama Canal, and incorporating Canada as a US state.
Immigration policy will be among Trump's first executive actions once in office, alongside energy issues and initiatives promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as noted by his incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz in a CBS interview.
"The American people provided him with a definitive mandate. Secure our border, deport the most dangerous individuals, and confront the cartels," Waltz emphasized.
Trump's agenda was a likely discussion point at his breakfast with Republican US Senators at Blair House, the guest quarters adjacent to the White House. Prominent Senate Republicans such as John Cornyn, Susan Collins, Ted Cruz, Rick Scott, and Tim Scott were seen leaving the event.
The rally is expected to mirror the dynamic arena speeches that have characterized Trump's campaigning since 2016.
Among the notable attendees will be the world's wealthiest man, Elon Musk, who has become a trusted ally after investing over $250 million in his campaign. He will be joined by Vice President-elect JD Vance, UFC CEO Dana White, conservative activist Charlie Kirk, and commentator Megyn Kelly.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew plans to attend the rally just hours after Trump announced he would reinstate the app's availability in the US upon taking office. TikTok began restoring access to US users on Sunday following Trump's promise to sign an executive order to postpone a federal ban on the app.
Musicians including Kid Rock, The Village People, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Lee Greenwood are slated to perform at the rally.
Meanwhile, Biden embarked on his final official trip as President on Sunday to Charleston, South Carolina, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which also falls on Monday. He will address services and speak on King's legacy at Royal Missionary Baptist Church.
The inauguration ceremony is set for noon ET (1700 GMT) on Monday, where Trump will take the presidential oath inside the Capitol building rotunda, following a decision to move the event indoors due to the cold weather.
Nearly 25,000 law enforcement personnel will be present to ensure security.
