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WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration is Monday, and so far, Utah's congressional delegation is enthusiastic about a smooth transition of power and the beginning of the America First agenda.
The ceremony is on the same day as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In remembrance of the late President Jimmy Carter, President Joe Biden issued an order to lower the flags to half-staff. But the latest post from House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated "The Capitol will fly at full-staff" for the event Monday, defying one of Biden's final executive decisions.
The inauguration was also moved indoors due to dangerously cold temperatures.
So far, the offices of Reps. Mike Kennedy, Burgess Owens and Celeste Maloy confirmed to the Deseret News that they will be attending the inauguration. Rep. Blake Moore's office hasn't indicated whether he will attend.
Newly sworn-in Kennedy, in a statement to the Deseret News, said, "This is truly a historic event."
"Despite the numerous efforts to prevent President Trump from assuming office, the day has come, and he is ready to lead our nation once again," said Kennedy, who represents Utah's 3rd District. "Let's get to work!"
In a statement to the Deseret News, Rep. Burgess Owens said Jan. 20 "will mark the beginning of a new era" that is "built on strong leadership, basic competence, and common sense."
"Our mission is simple: fulfill the mandate the American people gave President Trump and deliver on the America First agenda," said Owens, who represents Utah's 4th District. "House Republicans have hit the ground running, working hand-in-hand with the incoming administration to protect Americans at home and abroad, lower costs for hardworking families, and ensure our nation remains a beacon of hope, prosperity, and freedom."
Rep. Celeste Maloy, R-Utah, said she looked "forward to President Trump's inauguration with optimism after four years of chaos."
"I think Utah and the country are ready for a new chapter, one where we have more freedom to pursue the American dream," she said, adding she looked forward to working with the Trump administration "to cut red tape, craft a balanced budget, and stop federal overreach of our public lands and resources." Maloy represents Utah's 2nd District.
