Construction Starts on Inauguration Stage at Capitol After Jan. 6 Attack

Construction of the presidential inauguration platform commenced on Wednesday at the U.S. Capitol. This event brought together leaders from both parties, who hammered the first ceremonial nails into a structure that symbolizes America’s dedication to the peaceful transition of power. This tradition faced significant threats during the violent events of January 6, 2021, when supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol.

In a show of bipartisan cooperation, congressional leaders gathered on the National Mall. Although the January 6 attack was not directly referenced, its memory loomed over the proceedings, especially in light of recent concerns regarding election-related violence, including an assassination attempt on Trump.

Senator Amy Klobuchar, who leads the joint committee overseeing inauguration preparations, highlighted the significance of their efforts: “These workers will literally set the stage for the peaceful transfer of power.”

The previous inauguration became a backdrop for the chaos that erupted that day. Rioters not only attacked law enforcement but also occupied the inaugural stage and its press platform. Workers tasked with finalizing the structure had to evacuate as the rioters approached, later returning to clean up and repair for President Joe Biden’s inauguration just two weeks later.

Klobuchar, surrounded by construction workers donned in hard hats and reflective gear, characterized the upcoming inauguration as a moment to “celebrate our democracy and the sacred values that tie us together as a nation.”

The ceremony coincidentally marked the anniversary of George Washington laying the cornerstone of the Capitol, adding layers of historical significance.

During the ceremony, lawmakers pounded a few of the approximately 500,000 nails that will be used to construct the platform. House Republican Leader Steve Scalise enthusiastically took up the hammer and finished ahead of his peers, while Klobuchar concluded the event with a hearty swing of her hammer, completing the task with a smile.

Once completed, the platform will accommodate nearly 1,600 guests for the ceremony on January 20. This group will include the president and vice president-elect, former presidents, foreign dignitaries, Supreme Court justices, and congressional leaders, marking the commencement of a new administration.

The event will be visually rich, with five American flags displayed above the platform. One flag will represent the current state, while two others will feature 13 stars commemorating the original colonies. Additionally, two will showcase stars reflecting the count when each president’s home state joined the union.

Vice President Kamala Harris’ California could be represented by a 31-star flag, while a 27-star flag would signify Trump’s Florida. The inauguration holds the potential for historic significance, with either the next president being the first Black woman and South Asian American to hold the position, or Trump being only the second person in U.S. history to make a successful comeback to the presidency.

This symbolic event, combining matters of governance and the peaceful transfer of power, stands as a testament to the resilience of American democracy.

Source: Associated Press