Trump Engages with GOP Senators as Supporters Celebrate His Return Before Inauguration

President-elect Donald Trump met with Republican senators privately before attending events celebrating his return to power. The gathering took place at Blair House, the official guest residence, providing GOP leaders a chance to finalise plans before Trump's inauguration. Meanwhile, supporters from across the country gathered in Washington, dressed in formal attire, and participated in various celebrations near the White House.

Trump's Return to Washington

Trump's first full day back in Washington since his election victory allowed him to energise his core supporters before the official inauguration ceremony. The capital was prepared for the events with heightened security measures. Unlike the unrest following his 2021 loss to Joe Biden, officials did not anticipate significant protests or violence this time. Instead, the city expected crowds celebrating Trump's second term and the Republican Party's control.

Despite winning comfortably in November with a significant Electoral College margin, Trump remains a polarising figure. His presidency is marked by both strong support and fierce opposition. This division may challenge his efforts to promote bipartisanship and heal political rifts. Trump has stated that unity will be a theme of his inauguration speech, alongside strength and fairness.

Inauguration Preparations

With cold weather forecasted for Monday, Trump decided to move his oath of office and other outdoor events indoors. A rehearsal took place inside the US Capitol on Sunday. However, due to limited space in the Rotunda, it was uncertain if all 250,000 ticket holders could view the inauguration. Large screens around the National Mall were removed, but alternative indoor viewing locations were promised.

National and global issues also captured Trump's attention on Sunday. He commented on social media about the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and addressed the US ban on TikTok. "Hostages starting to come out today! Three wonderful young women will be first," Trump wrote regarding the ceasefire.

TikTok Ban Controversy

Millions of US TikTok users lost access as a federal ban took effect due to national security concerns over its parent company, ByteDance. The company appealed to Trump for intervention, expressing hope for a solution once he takes office. Trump assured he would issue an executive order to delay the ban's enforcement and explore a joint venture model for US ownership of TikTok.

Incoming national security adviser Michael Waltz expressed confidence in Trump's ability to negotiate a deal by Monday. Waltz mentioned that Trump discussed TikTok with Chinese President Xi Jinping over the weekend, agreeing to collaborate on resolving the issue.

On Saturday night, Trump stayed at Blair House after attending a party at his golf club in Sterling, Virginia. The event featured fireworks and opera tenor Christopher Macchio, who will perform at the inauguration. On Sunday morning, Trump participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery with Vice President-elect JD Vance and family members.

The ceremony was attended by Trump's children and several Cabinet picks for his incoming administration. Among them were Pete Hegseth for defense secretary, Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence, and Elise Stefanik as ambassador to the United Nations. Medal of Honor recipients also attended.

Later that day, Trump planned to speak at a rally at Capital One Arena and attend a candlelight dinner downtown.