President-elect Donald Trump is set to be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025. This significant event will take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., due to a forecast of extremely cold weather. If you’re wondering how to watch this historic inauguration, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss a moment.
Television Broadcasts
How can you watch live? Television remains one of the primary ways to watch the inauguration. Major news networks will provide extensive coverage, ensuring you have multiple options to tune in.
Fox News
Fox News will start its coverage early in the morning. Here’s what to expect:
- 4 a.m. ET: Coverage begins with “Fox & Friends First.”
- 6 a.m. ET: “Fox & Friends” airs with hosts Brian Kilmeade, Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, and Lawrence Jones.
- 9 a.m. ET: “America’s Newsroom” takes over.
- 11 a.m. ET: “The Faulkner Focus” airs before the main event.
- 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET: Special coverage titled “Inauguration of Donald Trump” will feature anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum as Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance take the oath of office.
NBC and MSNBC
NBC and MSNBC offer comprehensive coverage with a mix of morning shows and live updates:
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- 7 a.m. ET: NBC kicks off with a special edition of the “Today” show from Washington, D.C.
- 10 a.m. ET: Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie begin live coverage.
- 9 a.m. CT: NBC News provides 24/7 streaming coverage.
On MSNBC:
- 5 a.m. ET: Ali Vitali starts with “Way Too Early.”
- 6 a.m. ET: “Morning Joe” with Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist.
- 10 a.m. ET: Rachel Maddow leads live inauguration coverage.
- 2 p.m. ET: Coverage continues with hosts Chris Hayes and Alex Wagner.
CNN
CNN’s coverage begins at midnight with a special hosted by Omar Jimenez. Key segments include:
- 7 a.m. ET: “The Inauguration of Donald Trump” with Jake Tapper and Anderson Cooper.
- Later: Erin Burnett covers the presidential parade.
- Live Streams: Available on CNN.com and the CNN mobile app, including interactive live chats.
ABC
ABC News offers extensive coverage starting early in the morning:
- 7 a.m. ET: A special edition of “Good Morning America.”
- 9 a.m. ET: David Muir leads day-long reports from Washington, D.C.
- Coverage Highlights: Trump’s visit to Capitol Hill, the swearing-in ceremony, inaugural address, Oval Office signing, and the parade.
Watch on ABC and stream via ABC News Live for continuous updates.
CBS
CBS News provides early and continuous coverage:
- 6 a.m. ET: Coverage begins on CBS News 24/7 with anchor Errol Barnett.
- 7 a.m. ET: Special edition of “CBS Mornings” with Gayle King, Tony Dokoupil, and Nate Burleson.
- 9 a.m. ET: Norah O’Donnell anchors all-day coverage until at least 5 p.m. ET.
Access CBS coverage on CBSNews.com, the CBS News app, CBS YouTube channel, social platforms, Paramount+, and Pluto.
NewsNation
NewsNation offers live and in-depth coverage:
- 9 a.m. ET: Two-hour live report with Blake Burman.
- 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET: Live broadcast of the swearing-in ceremony with anchors Chris Cuomo, Chris Stirewalt, Elizabeth Vargas, and Leland Vittert.
Stream live via the NewsNation app for uninterrupted coverage.
BBC
The BBC provides international coverage of the inauguration:
- 7 a.m. ET: Special coverage starts from around Washington, D.C.
- 10:30 a.m. ET: Clive Myrie and Sophie Raworth cover the main event near the White House and Capitol Hill.
Watch on the BBC News channel available on U.S. cable TV or stream via BBC.com and the BBC app.
Online Streaming
For those who prefer to watch online, several options are available:
- Official Websites: The White House and Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies often stream the event live on their official websites.
- YouTube: Many news outlets, including C-SPAN and PBS NewsHour, will stream the inauguration live on YouTube.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram will host live streams through official accounts of major news networks and government channels.
Radio Coverage
If you’re on the go or prefer audio, radio offers another way to stay informed:
- NPR: National Public Radio provides live audio coverage of the inauguration. Tune in via your car radio or through the NPR app for continuous updates.
- Local Radio Stations: Many local stations across the country will also broadcast live updates and commentary.
In-Person Attendance
For those interested in experiencing the inauguration firsthand, attending in person is an option, though it requires planning:
- Tickets: Typically, tickets are distributed through Congressional representatives. Contact your local representative’s office well in advance to inquire about availability.
- Security: Be prepared for stringent security measures. Follow all guidelines and arrive early to pass through security screening.
- Public Access: Attendance may be limited, and access is often restricted to ensure safety. Check official guidelines and updates as the event approaches.
Full Schedule of Inaugural Events
President Trump’s inauguration day will feature a series of events. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
- Morning Prayer Service: Held at St. John’s Episcopal Church, a longstanding tradition.
- Tea at the White House: A gesture of unity and continuity.
- Swearing-In Ceremony: The main event inside the Capitol Rotunda at 12 p.m. ET.
- Presidential Parade: An indoor parade at Capital One Arena starting at 3 p.m. ET.
- Inaugural Balls: Three evening balls—Commander-in-Chief Ball, Liberty Inaugural Ball, and Starlight Ball—where President Trump will deliver remarks.
Tips for Watching the Inauguration
To ensure a smooth viewing experience, consider the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check your preferred network’s schedule and set reminders for key segments.
- Stream Early: If streaming online, start early to avoid potential technical issues.
- Stay Updated: Follow official news outlets and social media for real-time updates and any changes to the schedule.
- Prepare for Weather: If attending in person, dress warmly and be prepared for cold conditions.
Watching President Trump’s 2025 inauguration is accessible through various platforms, ensuring that everyone can participate in this historic event. Whether you prefer watching on television, streaming online, listening to the radio, or attending in person, there are numerous options to stay informed and engaged.
By planning ahead and choosing the best method for you, you can witness the peaceful transfer of power and the beginning of Trump’s new term as President of the United States.
Stay tuned to your favorite news outlets and official channels for the latest updates as inauguration day approaches. This event marks a pivotal moment in American politics, and being prepared to watch it live will allow you to fully experience its significance.
