Virus, unrest dictate inauguration changes

A pandemic and security concerns are rewriting the script for the 2021 inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Some of the changes that will affect the day’s events:

INAUGURAL CEREMONY

Expect attendees to wear masks and observe social distancing practices to the extent possible on the usually crowded platform on the West Front of the Capitol, where government VIPs get a closeup view. Don’t expect to see President Donald Trump, who has said he will not attend.

ATTENDANCE

Officials are telling the public to stay away from the ceremonies in Washington and enjoy them virtually from home. Planted flags will dot the National Mall in place of spectators. Lawmakers will not get the usual hundreds of tickets for constituents to witness the ceremony from close-in areas.

SECURITY

Inaugurations have always warranted tight security, but the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol by Trump supporters and calls for protests before the inauguration led officials to lock down Washington days early, closing streets and deploying a robust security presence, including thousands of National Guard troops.

PARADE

Marching bands and other groups will not be strolling down spectator-lined Pennsylvania Avenue or filing past the president’s reviewing stand as part of the inaugural parade. Such entertainment will be virtual. The president will instead get a one-block ceremonial military escort to the White House.

BALLS AND GALAS

These after-parties where the new president, vice president and their families hobnob with supporters are considered imprudent during a pandemic and have been canceled.

Sources: Presidential Inaugural Committee; Congressional Research Service