The Daily Punch The Readback: Behind the scenes of Trump's second inauguration
Jan 25, 2025
Andrew Desiderio, Senior Congressional Reporter for Punchbowl News, shares an insider's perspective from Donald Trump's second inauguration in the Capitol Rotunda. He discusses the challenges of an indoor ceremony and the limited access for journalists. Desiderio provides insights on the audience's varied reactions to Trump's speech, highlighting both partisan tensions and moments of camaraderie among attendees. Plus, he weaves in a fun comparison between political events and the excitement around the Eagles NFC championship game.
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Indoor Inauguration
- Trump requested the second inauguration be moved indoors, citing cold weather.
- Critics argued he feared a smaller crowd size due to the cold.
Limited Press Access
- Only 20 reporters were allowed inside the Rotunda for the inauguration.
- Andrew Desiderio secured a spot, standing for hours in a small section at the back.
Notable Attendees and Absences
- Notable figures like Boris Johnson, Rupert Murdoch, and Joe Rogan attended.
- Many Democratic members of Congress boycotted the indoor event.