By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
WASHINGTON—On Friday, January 20, the United States of America will get a new President. Republican New York City billionaire and reality TV star Donald J. Trump will be sworn in, replacing outgoing President Barack Obama in ceremonies beginning at 8:00 am central time. The actual swearing in event will begin at 10:30 am.
The voters in Alabama strongly embraced the Trump candidacy, with Trump winning more votes in the state than any candidate in history. Trump had the largest margin of victory in Alabama, on a percentage basis, than any candidate since President Richard M. Nixon coasted to re-election over Senator George McGovern in 1972.
A number of Alabamians are traveling to Washington to attend the ceremonies, and Talladega College will be performing in the inauguration parade.
US Representative Bradley Byrne (R-AL1) said on social media, “I know a number of people from Southwest Alabama are planning to attend Friday’s Presidential Inauguration. I encourage you to take a few minutes to review important information regarding travel plans, security requirements, and other logistics. My office is also available to answer any questions you may have. Our number is 202-225-4931. Hope you enjoy your visit!”
Suspended Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore (R) will speak on Friday at the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast at Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC. Moore was among 20 people recently interviewed by Alabama Governor Robert Bentley to fill the seat currently occupied by US Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) should he be confirmed as Trump’s Attorney General.
President-elect Trump has said that he is writing his own inauguration speech, and both his speech and the inaugural parade are expected to be among the shortest in recent memory.
On Saturday, January 21st, more than 400,000 are expected to take part in a Women’s March on Washington, partly to protest the incoming president.
The Jefferson County Republican Party, the Alabama Constitutional Conservatives and the Birmingham Chapter of the Alabama Minority GOP are holding an inauguration watch party and fundraiser at Cantina Laredo in Birmingham, Alabama for Alabamians who cannot attend the event in Washington. You can RSVP here.
To learn more about the inauguration and see a map of the venues, visit the official inauguration website.
