President-elect Donald Trump held a “victory rally” at Capital One Arena, just one day before being sworn in as the 47th president of the United States.
Despite it being a chilling 39 degrees, combined with harsh weather conditions such as rain, hail, and snow Trump’s supporters turned out in full force, braving the elements with enthusiasm as they lined up to enter the arena.
During the rally, Trump reflected on his victories, highlighting wins in all seven battleground states, as well as Republican gains in both the House and Senate.
“We won, we won. I’m thrilled to be back with so many friends, supporters and true American patriots on the eve of taking back our country,” Trump said. “Tomorrow, at noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand new day of American strength, prosperity, dignity and pride.”
Mike Vasquez, a Trump supporter and veteran, acknowledged the slim chances of making it into the arena but was determined to be part of the “history” and experience the “amazing” energy of the crowd.
“We’re connecting with people from all over the world,” Vasquez said. “I’ve spoken to people from Australia, India, Spain, Belgium, Korea—so many countries, it’s hard to list them all.”
Vasquez, who had been waiting outside since 7 a.m., expressed unwavering support for Trump.
“We know Trump means well for America and we believe that, and we support him, and we support Americans,” he said“Americans first, and then we could, if we have enough to take care of other countries, so be it.”
The arena, which holds about 20,000 people, was at full capacity, leaving many rally-goers unable to get inside. However, outside the arena, there was music, chants, the sale of Trump paraphernalia and a cardboard cutout of Trump surfing the crowd.
Gabe Wooley and his family traveled from Oklahoma to attend the rally, and he shared his excitement about being there despite the challenges.
“I feel cold. It’s a very long line so several people had to turn away. It would’ve been cool to get into the rally but still being here and seeing the product of all the hard work that the Trump campaign put in and the supporters behind it is encouraging,” he said.
Inside the rally, Trump thanked all the people who came out to try to be a part of the event.
“People are happy. It’s been a long time. None of this would’ve happened without you,” he said.
During his speech, the president-elect took credit for the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which will lead to the release of Israeli hostages, announcing that, “this agreement could only have happened as a result of our historic victory in November.”
He also mentioned the banning and subsequent reinstatement of the TikTok app, claiming credit for its return online just hours after it had been shut down in response to a new law banning it in the U.S.
Trump pledged to act with historic speed, vowing to “fix every single crisis facing our country” starting the following day.
After reiterating his commitment to ending illegal immigration, he concluded by emphasizing that America would once again be a free and proud nation.
Copy edited by Aniyah Genama
