The campaign-style rally in Washington mirrored one at Madison Square Garden.
On the eve of his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump energized his supporters, laying out the goals of his second administration, thanking the allies that helped him achieve his victory, and giving hints about his legislative agenda.
“We won. We won,” Trump opened, as the Capital One Arena filled with cheers.
Taking a victory lap ahead of being sworn in, Trump said he will usher in a new era. “Tomorrow at noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand-new day of American strength and prosperity,” he promised.
“Once and for all, we’re going to end the reign of a failed and corrupt political establishment in Washington,” Trump declared. He also promised to bring back law and order to cities, restore patriotism to schools, and get radical left woke ideologies out of the military and government.
Trump hyped the audience, saying they were on the verge of four historic years, and reminded them that he would be representing them as the 47th president of the United States.
The rally was part of numerous festivities planned for Trump’s second inauguration, including fireworks at his Virginia golf club and exclusive receptions. It was a move to highlight how big arena rallies have played a role in all of Trump’s presidential bids.
Trump promised the “best 100 days,” and quipped about signing executive orders to set the country on the right path. He said he would act with historic speed and strength to fix the crises facing the country.
Trump also previewed his intention to pardon Jan. 6 rioters, saying the crowd would be happy with his decision on the J6 hostages.
Trump focused on immigration, previewing executive orders aimed at restoring border security. He promised the invasion of borders would stop by the end of the day.
He also took credit for “saving” TikTok and emphasized a joint venture with China and the U.S. to avoid risk. Trump briefly mentioned the three hostages released from a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, praising negotiator Steve Witkoff.
Trump celebrated his Cabinet nominees, bringing Elon Musk and his son on stage but leaving out Vice President-elect JD Vance.
The rally closed with Trump saying, “Tomorrow, we will all be sworn in together.” He also promised to declassify the assassination files of President John F. Kennedy, his brother Robert Kennedy, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Trump exited the stage to a live performance of “Y.M.C.A.”, with performances from musicians like Lee Greenwood, Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and the Liberty University Praise Choir.
On Monday, Trump and his supporters gathered at Capital One Arena for a live viewing of his inauguration. After the ceremony, there were three inaugural balls: the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Inaugural Ball, and the Starlight Ball.
Trump concluded by promising, “Everyone will be safe, everyone will be happy, and we will, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
