As Donald Trump prepares for his second presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025, the event will mark another milestone in US politics. The ceremony, which will be attended by Trump's highest donors, is set to take place on the steps of the US Capitol in Washington DC.
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Many dignitaries and envoys from around the world are expected to attend the event including the current leaders Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and former presidents like Barack Obama. However, former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend. The weekend will be filled with traditional events like the swearing-in ceremony and inaugural parade.
Michelle Obama to skip Donald Trump’s inauguration
Former First Lady Michelle Obama has announced she will not attend Donald Trump's inauguration. This decision follows her recent absence from former President Jimmy Carter's funeral, during which a video taken of her husband laughing with Donald Trump went viral.
A spokesperson for the former first couple confirmed the news to People Magazine but no official reason has been provided for her non-attendance. In a statement shared with The Associated Press, the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama also confirmed the former president’s attendance, reports Mint. They announced:
Former first lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.
She has made headlines with her decision, but Donald Trump's inauguration will not be short high-profile politicians, celebrities, and businessmen.
Who will be attending the inauguration?
The inauguration weekend kicks off with events on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Trump’s golf club in Virginia. A reception followed by fireworks will set the stage for the days of celebration that will culminate in the swearing-in ceremony on Monday, reports Forbes. The inauguration schedule includes several key events across four days.
The inauguration ceremony is usually attended by former presidents and families. Joe Biden previously confirmed that he will be attending the event and Kamala Harris is also expected to be present. Other attendees include Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Former First Lady Laura Bush and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will also be in attendance with their husbands.
In addition to the former presidents, Trump’s inauguration will also see several billionaires in attendance, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Although it is rare for foreign leaders to attend U.S. presidential inaugurations, a few notable figures are expected to participate or send representatives to Trump’s swearing-in ceremony. Argentinian President Javier Milei, one of Trump’s close allies, has confirmed his attendance. Additionally, Chinese President Xi Jinping is sending an official envoy, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed interest in attending, depending on her schedule. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has also stated his intention to attend if his passport is returned in time. Other dignitaries, including far-right French politician Éric Zemmour and his partner Sarah Knafo, have reportedly been invited, though their attendance remains unconfirmed.
Country music star Carrie Underwood will perform during the swearing-in ceremony, while the Village People, whose song Y.M.C.A. is a staple at Trump rallies, will perform at various inaugural events throughout the weekend.
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Sources used:
People: Michelle Obama Just Announced She Will Not Attend Donald Trump's Inauguration After Also Missing Jimmy Carter's Funeral
Mint: Michelle Obama’s shocking Inauguration snub: What’s behind her decision to skip Trump’s ceremony?
Forbes: Trump Inauguration: Here’s What To Know About Guest List, Schedule, Performers And More
