On the eve of his second presidential inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump is hosting a high-energy, campaign-style rally in Washington, D.C. The “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” is set to take place at 3 p.m. ET (1900 GMT) at the Capital One Arena. This event serves as both a celebration and a preview of what Americans can expect during Trump’s return to the White House.
A Triumphant Return Amid Controversy
This rally marks Trump’s first major appearance in Washington since January 6, 2021, when his call for supporters to protest the 2020 election results led to the infamous Capitol riot. Despite the controversies surrounding that day, Trump has remained steadfast in his commitment to pardon many of the over 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the event.
His remarks at the rally, coupled with his inaugural speech on Monday, are expected to offer insights into the policies and tone of his second term. Trump has already sparked debates by discussing unconventional ideas such as taking control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, and even annexing Canada as a U.S. state.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Supporters
The rally is set to feature speeches from high-profile figures who have aligned themselves with Trump’s vision for America. Among the speakers are Vice President-elect JD Vance, tech mogul Elon Musk, UFC CEO Dana White, and conservative commentator Megyn Kelly. Elon Musk, a close confidant of Trump, reportedly invested over $250 million to bolster Trump’s campaign.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew will also be in attendance, adding intrigue amid uncertainty about whether Trump will lift the impending U.S. ban on the app. Chew is expected to join other tech executives at Trump’s inauguration the following day.
To elevate the celebratory mood, performances by Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Greenwood, and The Village People are planned, making the rally as much an entertainment event as a political one.
A Final Farewell for Biden
While Trump takes center stage, outgoing President Joe Biden will make his final official trip to Charleston, South Carolina, on Sunday to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Biden plans to speak at Royal Missionary Baptist Church, reflecting on King’s enduring legacy.
Inauguration Details
Trump’s swearing-in ceremony will occur on Monday at noon ET (1600 GMT) inside the Capitol rotunda due to cold weather. Security will be tight, with approximately 25,000 law enforcement personnel ensuring a smooth event. Before the inauguration, Trump will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery and later address supporters at a formal dinner in Washington.
Looking Ahead
As Trump prepares to take the oath of office, his victory rally sets the tone for what promises to be an eventful second term. With bold promises and an eclectic group of allies by his side, Trump is poised to deliver on his campaign mantra of making America great again.
