Work on the presidential inauguration platform began Wednesday at the U.S. Capitol with congressional leaders participating in the symbolic act of pounding ceremonial nails into the stage. This platform is seen as a representation of America's commitment to the peaceful transfer of power, a tradition that was nearly disrupted in 2021 during the violent storming of the Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump.
During the event, which was attended by both Republican and Democratic leaders, there was no direct mention of the events of January 6, 2021, when rioters used materials from the inauguration stage to attack law enforcement and disrupt the certification of the election results. However, the memories of that day and concerns about potential violence in the upcoming election season loomed over the proceedings.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who chairs the joint committee overseeing inauguration preparations, emphasized the significance of the workers in setting the stage for the peaceful transfer of power. The preparations for the previous inauguration were marred by the violence that unfolded on January 6, 2021, as rioters swarmed the stage and press platform, forcing workers to evacuate and later rebuild parts of the stage for President Joe Biden's inauguration.
The congressional leaders highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting that it coincided with the anniversary of George Washington laying the cornerstone of the Capitol. They collectively hammered a portion of the nails that will secure the stage, with House Republican Leader Steve Scalise and Sen. Klobuchar actively participating in the ceremony.
When completed for the January 20 ceremony, the platform will accommodate nearly 1,600 individuals, including the president and vice president-elect, past presidents, foreign dignitaries, Supreme Court justices, and congressional leaders. The stage will be adorned with five American flags, representing the current flag, the original 13 colonies, and the number of stars corresponding to the president's home state.
The upcoming inauguration holds historical significance, as it will either mark the inauguration of the first Black woman and first South Asian American president or the second term of the incumbent president. The event serves as an opportunity to celebrate democracy and the values that unite the nation.
