“America’s Got Talent” runner-up Jackie Evancho will sing the national anthem at Donald Trump’s inaugural ceremony Jan. 20.
“I have recently been asked by [President-elect Trump] to perform the national anthem for the swearing-in ceremony at the inauguration,” the 16-year-old Pittsburgh native announced Wednesday on NBC’s “Today” show.
“I’m so excited. It’s going to be awesome,” Evancho said. “I felt really honored to be able to sing for the office.”
Evancho previously sung for the Obamas during the 2010 National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and at “A Capitol Fourth,” an annual concert in Washington, D.C., on July 4. “I feel really honored to have the chance to perform for the president again,” she said.
Boris Epshteyn, director of communications for Trump’s inaugural committee, confirmed the news in a tweet after her announcement. “Honored to have @jackieevancho performing the National Anthem at the @TrumpInaugural Ceremony. She’s an inspiration for all Americans!”
Evancho met Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., shortly after she was crowned the “America’s Got Talent” runner-up for the show’s fifth season in 2010. Her Facebook page includes a photo of her with Trump at his resort.
Honored to have @jackieevancho performing the National Anthem at the @TrumpInaugural Ceremony. She’s an inspiration for all Americans! #MAGA
— Boris Epshteyn (@BorisEP) December 14, 2016
