WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump is leaving Washington next Wednesday morning, just before the inauguration of President Joe Biden to begin his post-presidential life in Florida.
According to a person familiar with the planning, he spoke on condition of anonymity because Trump’s plans were not formally announced. Officials are considering an extensive event that will have the feel of a state visit, with a red carpet, color guard, military band and 21-gun salute all discussed.
Trump has already announced that he will not attend Biden’s inauguration – a historic break with tradition – after months of making baseless allegations of voter fraud in an attempt to delegitimize Biden’s presidency. Vice President Mike Pence will attend in his place.
Trump will leave Washington two weeks after inciting a violent uprising, with his supporters storming the Capitol building in an effort to stop the peaceful transition of power.
Trump is expected to stay in Florida with a small group of assistants while blurring his future.