'A momentous day before a historic day': Pence spruiks Trump inauguration

SBS World News Radio: United States President-elect Donald Trump has arrived in Washington ahead of his inauguration.

'A momentous day before a historic day': Pence spruiks Trump inauguration

'A momentous day before a historic day': Pence spruiks Trump inauguration Source: AAP

Donald Trump is set to be greeted by supporters and by protesters as he makes his way to the White House to be sworn in as the 45th president of the United States.

Nearly 9-million people are expected to flood Washington for the ceremony, which includes the swearing-in on the steps of the Capitol and a parade to the White House.

President-elect Donald Trump has laid a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington to remember America's war dead.

He was accompanied by Vice President-elect Mike Pence, who reflected on the significance of the day leading up to the inauguration.

"It is a momentous day before a historic day and I'm pleased to have a chance to report to the American people and to all of you the progress we have made at the president-elect's direction."

Mr Trump has also praised his intended cabinet.

"We have a lot of smart people. I'll tell you what, one thing we've learned - we have by far the highest IQ of any cabinet ever assembled."

The sentiment was echoed by incoming White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer.

"I think when you look at the totality of his administration, the people that he's talked to, the people that he's met with, the people that he's appointing, you see a president who is committed to uniting this country, who is bringing the best and the brightest together."

Not everyone agrees.

Several protests have been scheduled to coincide with Mr Trump's inauguration - including a Women's March, attended by many of Hillary Clinton's supporters.

And the Trump transition team has reportedly struggled to secure high-profile entertainers for the inauguration.

Among those artists who turned down the opportunity to play were Elton John, Welsh opera singer Charlotte Church and American DJ, Moby.

Dreamgirls star Jennifer Holliday also pulled out of the event after criticism from her fans, while a Bruce Springsteen tribute band also opted not to play.

These Donald Trump supporters say the protesters should give Mr Trump a chance.

"The whole upset thing, I understand the frustration. I had it eight years ago when Obama was elected. Did I go out and act in protest? No, I got involved more to make a change, to make sure I was educated more for what was going on."

"I say, he's our new president. Like it or not, he's our new president. Protesting isn't going to do a thing to change that."

The newly sworn-in president is reportedly set to dance with his wife, Melania, to Frank Sinatra's classic "My Way" at the inauguration ball.

The singer's daughter, Nancy Sinatra, is critical of the decision, posting on Twitter that people should remember the first line of the song:

"And now, the end is near;

And so I face the final curtain..."

 

 


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3 min read
Published 20 January 2017 1:00pm
Updated 20 January 2017 1:19pm

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