Trump supporters withstand cold temperatures Sunday as they head to the Capital One Arena to attend Donald Trump’s pre-inauguration rally. Photo credit: Donald Randle
WASHINGTON— With temperatures dipping below freezing, thousands of supporters lined up
Sunday outside the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., awaiting President-elect Donald
Trump’s pre-inauguration rally.
Many Americans traveled across the country to witness history, each with unique perspectives on what a second Trump presidency means for the nation’s future.
Frank Roberson of Birmingham, Alabama, says Donald Trump’s foreign policy positions were the deciding factor for his vote. Photo credit: Donald Randle
For Frank Roberson, 37, who traveled with his wife from Birmingham, Alabama, the decision to attend the rally was personal. A former Marine, Roberson described himself as someone who wasn’t always politically active but felt this election carried high stakes.
“I voted based on one policy issue, and it was Trump’s stance on foreign policy that was my
deciding factor,” Roberson said. “He seems to be against war.”
With the ban of TikTok firmly on the minds of many Americans, Roberson also reflected on how social media has shaped expectations.
“Social media has created a world where people don’t see the difference between people
perceiving you as a good person and actually being a good person.”
Despite the enthusiasm, not everyone who waited in line for hours was able to make it inside.
By approximately 4:30 p.m., an hour before rally began, the arena had reached its maximum
capacity.
Trump supporters, some who joined the line as early as 4 a.m. on Sunday, withstand sleet and freezing rain for a chance to attend the ‘Make America Great Again Rally’ at the Capital One Arena. Photo credit: Donald Randle
Kenny Turner, 32, a vendor selling merchandise at the rally and a D.C. native, said he felt
inspired by the sense of unity among the crowd.
“Everyone I’ve interacted with today and this weekend has been in great spirits,” Turner said.
“Just today, there were supporters who helped a lady who needed assistance because of the
cold weather,” Turner said.
“I voted for President Donald Trump, and I’m out here providing people with different merch and accessories to support him and the Republican Party’s movement,” Turner said.
Kenny Turner, a vendor who voted for Donald Trump, sells merchandise outside the Capital One Arena on Sunday. Photo credit: Donald Randle
Design credits: Mariaregina Mendoza
