As January 20 approaches, Washington DC is preparing for the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. However, the lead-up to this event has seen a significant number of residents leaving the city. Several factors contribute to this decision, ranging from security concerns to logistical challenges. The atmosphere was charged with emotions, reflecting the deep political divide in the country. As Trump prepares for another inauguration in 2025, a similar pattern is emerging. 

According to a report by The Guardian, Alejandra Whitney-Smith, a DC resident, is planning to spend her birthday weekend, which coincides with Trump’s inauguration, in a cabin without technology. She expressed her discomfort with being in the city during the inauguration, saying, “When the election happened, I told myself, “Oh, no, I can’t be here.”

While reflecting on Trump's re-election, Smith expressed that it represents the negative aspects of America that many choose to ignore. Her mother was working at the Library of Congress during the January 6 attack on the US Capitol in 2021. Recalling the incident, Smith shared her fear for her mother and her own discomfort being in the city. She plans to spend the inauguration weekend in a cabin with friends, engaging in vision boarding, reflection, and reconnection.

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DC Prepares For Trump’s Inauguration

While some residents leave DC, hotels were 70 per cent booked by Wednesday. Conservative and Republican supporters are enthusiastic about Trump's inauguration, highlighting the contrasting emotions surrounding the event. Despite the excitement, Trump's relationship with DC has been tense, with criticism and proposals for radical changes to the federal workforce.

Despite the enthusiasm of his base, Trump has often criticised Washington DC, calling it corrupt and mismanaged. During his first term, he made several promises to overhaul the federal government, suggesting the inclusion of business leaders like Elon Musk to reshape key agencies.

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