12:57 PM PST 1/3/2017
by
the Associated Press
,
THR Staff
Hillary and Bill Clinton plan to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration, putting the 2016 presidential rivals on the same platform only weeks after their tough campaign. Aides to the former secretary of state and former president say the Clintons will attend the Jan. 20 inauguration.
Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee, has largely avoided the public eye since Trump’s come-from-behind victory in November. As a former president and first lady, the couple faced the difficult decision of whether to attend the ceremony.
The announcement came shortly after former President George W. Bush’s office said he would attend along with former first lady Laura Bush. «President and Mrs. George W. Bush will attend the 58th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony on January 20, 2017, at the U. S. Capitol in Washington, D. C.,» read the Tuesday statement. «They are pleased to be able to witness the peaceful transfer of power — a hallmark of American democracy — and swearing-in of President Trump and Vice President Pence. »
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama also will attend the inauguration.
Trump’s inaugural committee announced last month on Twitter that plans for the week include a welcome rally, parade, two inaugural balls and a ball saluting armed service members and first responders.
Jackie Evancho, who rose to fame on America’s Got Talent, will sing the national anthem. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Radio City Rockettes also will perform, despite swirling controversy over whether the dancers of the famed troupe are being forced to participate against their will at the event.
