President-elect Joe Biden is opting for a historically scaled-down inauguration on Jan. 20 amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to the Presidential Inaugural Committee.
Forgoing some of the traditional festivities, Biden will participate in a “Pass in Review,” a military tradition symbolizing the peaceful transition of power, after which he will be accompanied by a “presidential escort” from 15th Street to the White House. The entire event will be livestreamed for viewers at home.
The Biden Inaugural Committee made the arrangements in consultation with the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In a statement, the PIC urged people not to travel for the inauguration and to remain vigilant to prevent the spread of the disease.
“The pandemic is continuing to have a significant public health impact across the nation. Americans everywhere must do their part to slow the spread of the virus: wear masks, stay home, and limit gatherings,” said PIC Chief Medical Advisor Dr. David Kessler. “We are asking Americans to participate in inaugural events from home to protect themselves, their families, friends, and communities.”
According to the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus tracker, the coronavirus has afflicted 20 million people in the United States to date. The U.S. passed a grim milestone on Sunday when the nation recorded its 350,000th death attributed to the virus.
