Mike Pence Makes A Decision Regarding His Attendance At Trump’s Inauguration
Photo credit : BRANDON BELL/GETTY
Despite their rocky relationship in recent years, former Vice President Mike Pence plans to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday. The news, first reported by The New York Times, has caught many by surprise.
Pence served as Trump’s vice president during his first term, but their relationship changed after the 2020 election. On January 6, 2021, Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol. Some of them were angry at Pence for refusing to overturn the election results. They even chanted, “Hang Mike Pence,” as they entered the building.
In his memoir, So Help Me God, Pence described the scary day:
“They had come to protest the result of the election and to prevent Congress from fulfilling its responsibility to open and count the Electoral College votes. And, as I later learned, many had come looking for me.”
Despite their differences, Pence congratulated Trump after he won the 2024 election. On X, formerly Twitter, Pence wrote:
“The American people have spoken, and Karen and I send our sincere congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump and his family on his election as 47th President of the United States. We also send our congratulations to Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and his family on his election as Vice President of the United States.”
Trump’s inauguration was originally planned to be held outdoors but has been moved inside the Capitol Rotunda, reportedly due to freezing weather. However, many believe there could be other reasons behind this decision, such as security concerns or the possibility of a smaller-than-expected crowd. The Rotunda, which can hold around 600 people, offers limited seating for the event. Among those expected to attend are former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, along with their spouses. Business figures like Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk are also on the guest list, underscoring the close ties between Trump and powerful corporate elites.
Country singer Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful” during the event. Some people, however, are skipping the inauguration. Former First Lady Michelle Obama and several Democratic leaders will not attend. Representative Ayanna Pressley explained her reason:
“I’ll be in town with my constituents honoring Dr. King’s legacy. I don’t think being there does that.”
Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, will also play a key role in Trump’s administration. Musk will help lead a new department focused on government efficiency. After the inauguration, Musk and Zuckerberg will cohost a reception with other wealthy Republican donors.
Earlier this month, Pence and Trump shook hands for the first time in years at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral. This moment sparked hope for a more civil relationship between them moving forward. Pence has also continued to share his views on key issues. During a recent visit to Taiwan, he encouraged Trump to stay firm in supporting Taiwan against China. Pence warned that a forceful Chinese takeover of Taiwan would have serious consequences for global commerce, technological progress, and the spread of nuclear capabilities.
Trump’s second term will begin on Monday at noon. Pence and Trump have had their share of ups and downs, but does their appearance together at this event signal a fresh start? Perhaps only time will tell.
