Ah, the presidential inauguration—a day of pomp, circumstance, and solemn oaths. But while what we see on our televisions or mobile devices are perfectly orchestrated moments, the real magic (and chaos) happens behind the scenes. Let’s take a look at what you won’t find in the official broadcast—and have a little fun doing it.
Let’s start with the White House—a hive of activity as history unfolds. The outgoing president’s belongings are whisked out like a political version of “Storage Wars,” and the incoming president’s family—furniture, heirlooms, and all—moves in, all within hours. Rumor has it, the White House staff trains for this day like they’re prepping for an Olympic relay race. Imagine someone yelling, “Where’s the new president’s cuff links?” while another worker is swapping out curtains faster than you can say “Home Sweet Home.” In some cases, this even includes repainting walls to the newcomers’ liking.
Then there’s the rehearsal—because even inaugurations need a dress rehearsal. A lucky group of stand-ins gets to play the president, vice president, and even their spouses. These folks, often junior military officers or local actors, may go down in history as “the Almost Commander-in-Chief.” Fun fact: they practice everything, including awkward handshakes and pretending not to flinch when the wind tries to steal the new president’s speech. If the ceremony is moved indoors, as it will be for Trump due to extreme weather, the rehearsal takes on a whole new dynamic. Navigating a smaller venue means precise coordination, tighter formations, and fewer theatrics—but the same high stakes.
Of course, no inauguration is complete without top-tier security. If you thought a spy thriller was intense, try the layers of security at an inauguration. Snipers on rooftops? Check—but not as critical since all the principals will be inside. Subterranean command centers? Double check. Decoy presidential limousines that even James Bond would envy? Absolutely. However, with Trump’s inauguration moving indoors, security becomes even more intricate. Closed venues require thorough sweeps, air filtration checks, and covert surveillance to ensure safety in a confined space. It’s like a real-life game of “Mission Impossible,” but with armored cars and elite agents blending into the crowd. Much more intimate that trying to monitor a million people on the mall.
And then there’s the seating—where the real drama unfolds. Who sits where might seem trivial, but for planners, it’s a diplomatic minefield. Think high school lunchroom politics but with senators, governors, and ex-presidents. There’s even a protocol expert whose job is to ensure no one feels slighted—and you thought Thanksgiving dinner seating was tough. In this case the issue is amplified as only 80 or so people will be allowed inside while there were to be two or three hundred on the platform outside. Think some may feel snubbed when they are not included?
Behind the scenes, classified briefings are quietly handed over. While everyone else is cheering, clapping, or trying to stay warm, the incoming president is getting their first taste of the most guarded secrets of the nation. For Trump, who’s been here before, it’s likely old hat. Plus he will be activating the myriad number of presidential orders has been working on over the last week or two. Oh, and let’s not forget the private letter the outgoing president leaves in the Resolute Desk. The contents are a mystery—some say it’s heartfelt advice, others think it might just be a doodle of the White House. Either way, it’s a tradition that’s as fascinating as it is secretive. The message from Biden to Trump? Now that’s a letter we’d all love to read.
When the formalities are over, the real feast begins. The grand luncheon features dishes that honor the new president’s heritage or home state. Lobster and clam chowder for a New Englander? Check. Texas barbecue for a Lone Star leader? You bet. Wonder what Donald and Melania’s choice will be? It’s like the Olympics of meal planning for the White House chefs, and every dish is steeped in symbolism (and butter).
But it’s not just political heavyweights filling the guest list. Somewhere in the crowd is a schoolteacher, a community activist, or a small-town mayor, soaking in the moment and wondering how they got seated next to a prime minister. These unsung participants add a human touch to the event’s grandeur but seldom make the news except maybe in the home town paper.
Every detail, from the Bible used for the oath to the first lady’s outfit, is loaded with meaning. Lincoln’s Bible? A nod to unity. A custom gown by an up-and-coming designer? A silent endorsement of the arts. And yes, every color, stitch, and accessory will be dissected by commentators like its Oscar night.
Inaugurations are like an iceberg—what you see on the surface is just a fraction of what’s really going on. Beneath the formality lies a world of backstage quirks, carefully managed chaos, and traditions that keep history alive. So, the next time you’re watching the president raise their right hand, remember: somewhere nearby, a protocol officer is holding their breath, a stand-in is reminiscing about their “presidential debut,” the White House staff is breathing a sigh of relief after pulling off the ultimate same-day moving job. A don’t underestimate the relief the Treasury agents feel having gotten through another public event. Now that’s democracy in action—with a side of humor.
So exciting, love it👍