Biden's inauguration to be largely virtual

Back in January of 2017, President Trump falsely claimed that he drew the biggest inauguration crowd ever. Four years later, President-elect Joe Biden’s inaugural committee is actually urging Americans to stay home.

The coronavirus pandemic reshaping Biden’s January 20th inauguration plans – starting with a public message Tuesday from the event’s organizers: don’t travel to Washington to see Biden sworn in.

Although he and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will take their oaths on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, as is traditional, the swearing-in ceremony and parade that follows will have limited attendance and be reimagined, the inaugural committee said in a statement Tuesday.

That likely means no throngs of sidewalk supporters to wave to – or, for that matter, packed-in protesters to pass by.

The usual shoulder-to-shoulder celebratory meal could be nixed – or at least socially distanced - with celebrity performances likely held from remote locations.

In that way, Biden’s inauguration could look similar to last summer’s Democratic convention, which featured virtual programs with participants across the nation.

Biden spent much of the campaign following COVID-19 safety protocols, holding relatively few-in person events.

Trump has yet to concede the election – despite this week’s Electoral College vote affirming Biden’s win – and it is unclear whether he will attend Biden’s swearing-in ceremony or meet with him at the White House, as is custom.

Biden’s planning committee said more details about his inauguration will be announced in the coming weeks that both keep people safe and honor the “grand traditions” of the presidency.