x
Breaking News
More () »

Trump to leave Washington on morning of Biden's inauguration

Trump had already announced that he would not be attending Joe Biden’s inauguration.
Credit: AP
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump walk to board Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House, Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump will leave Washington next Wednesday morning, just before President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, to begin his post-presidential life in Florida.

He will be sent off with a departure ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, according to a person familiar with the planning who spoke on condition of anonymity because Trump's plans have not been formally announced. Officials are considering an elaborate event that would have the feel of a state visit, with a red carpet, color guard, military band and 21-gun salute all being discussed.

Trump had already announced that he would not be attending Biden’s inauguration — an historical break with tradition — after spending months making baseless allegations of voter fraud in an attempt to delegitimize Biden’s presidency. Vice President Mike Pence will attend in his place.

RELATED: Inauguration Day 2021: What we know about the plans so far

RELATED: 6 questions about how Trump will spend rest of his presidency

He will leave two weeks to the day that his supporters stormed the Capitol building in an attempt to halt the peaceful transition of power, an event that led to his impeachment in the House for "incitement of insurrection."

Trump is expected to remain in Florida with a small group of aides as he mulls his future.

Credit: AP
An American flag flies over the White House in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

RELATED: LIST: Here's what is closed and restricted for inauguration events in DC

RELATED: National Mall shutdown to public ahead of Inauguration Day

RELATED: Justice Department watchdog opens probe of response to Capitol riot

RELATED: DOJ filing: 'Strong evidence' rioters wanted to 'capture and assassinate' lawmakers

RELATED: Trump's Impeachment: Can he run again in 2024?

RELATED: Tom Hanks hosting primetime special celebrating Joe Biden's inauguration

TEGNA's Travis Pittman contributed to this report.

Before You Leave, Check This Out