As preparations for the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump reach their final stages, several prominent figures are expected to skip the historic event marking one of the most remarkable comebacks in the nation’s history.
The ceremony, set to take place on Monday, January 20, 2025, will be held indoors due to extreme cold weather, a rare move last seen during Ronald Reagan’s 1985 inauguration. Despite the scale of the event, some notable absences have been confirmed, including key foreign leaders and domestic figures.
Former U.S. Leaders and Officials
Traditionally, presidential inaugurations are a domestic affair attended by past presidents, U.S. officials, and other dignitaries on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. While many familiar faces will be present, others have opted out.
Former President Barack Obama has confirmed his attendance; however, former First Lady Michelle Obama will not be present. A statement from the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama read:
“Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.”
Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, along with former President Bill Clinton and former First Lady Hillary Clinton, have also confirmed their attendance.
Foreign Leaders and Representatives
Unlike previous inaugurations, this event has drawn attention for its limited invitations to foreign leaders. In most cases, ambassadors or foreign ministers represent their countries.
President Xi Jinping of China, initially invited by Trump, will not attend. Instead, Vice President Han Zheng will represent China following the U.S.’s decision to restore TikTok operations in the country.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a close Trump ally, has also confirmed his absence. In his place, a lower-level delegation is expected to attend.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who worked closely with Trump during his first term, will not attend the inauguration either. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will represent India at the ceremony.
Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro Absent
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, nicknamed the “Trump of the Tropics,” was invited to the event. However, he will not attend due to a travel ban imposed by Brazil’s Supreme Court. Bolsonaro is under investigation following accusations of attempting to overturn the 2022 election results.
Notable Exclusions and Invitations
President Trump’s guest list includes some unconventional figures, sparking mixed reactions. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was notably excluded from the list of invitees. Instead, Trump invited Nigel Farage, leader of the far-right Reform UK Party, who has confirmed his attendance.
Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron was not invited to the ceremony. Instead, Eric Zemmour, a far-right politician and leader of France’s Reconquest Party, received an invitation and has confirmed his attendance.
A Global and Political Statement
The guest list and absences at Trump’s inauguration reflect a mix of political alliances and tensions on the global stage. As Trump prepares to take the oath of office indoors, the event will stand out for its notable shifts in tradition and diplomacy.
