After a day of executive actions, President Trump and first lady Melania Trump attended several inaugural balls. Willie James Inman reports from the Commander in Chief Ball.

Washington

Donald Trump is preparing to take office after defeating Kamala Harris in the U.S. Presidential election.

U.S. Presidential Elect

President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended several official inaugural balls, including the Commander in Chief Ball, following a day of executive actions by the newly inaugurated president. The events marked a celebration of the 47th president's return to power, signifying a traditional moment of celebration in U.S. political transitions. The Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife Usha Vance were also present at these events.

Melania Trump made a fashion statement in a black and white gown by designer Herve Pierre, while President Trump engaged in dancing to a song associated with his campaign. The inaugural balls, dating back to the early 19th century, remain coveted events, attracting a mix of political figures and celebrities. The Commander in Chief Ball, focused on honoring members of the armed services, featured a performance by Rascal Flats.

Despite cold weather conditions, the Liberty Ball continued indoors, presenting a performance from rapper Nelly. Performers at these events, like Nelly, expressed honor in being part of the presidential celebrations. The balls served as a vibrant celebration of the new administration's beginning, attended by a blend of political dignitaries and entertainers.



Trump attends inaugural balls after busy first day

It was a night of pomp and lots of circumstance. It's a celebration because we're going to turn our country around, we're going to make America great again. President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife Usha Vance attended three official inaugural balls celebrating the 47th president's return to power. We are a great nation, we will soon be the greatest we've ever been and that won't take long. Mrs. Trump dazzled in a black and white gown designed by her stylist Herve Pierre, while the president showed off his dance moves to what has become a campaign classic. Inaugural balls are hot ticket events and the tradition dates back to the early 19th century with many of the soirees including special moments like this. The first couple spent part of their evening here at the Commander in Chief Ball aimed at honoring members of the armed services where Rascal Flats performed. And while the cold weather kept most of the inaugural events inside, rapper Nelly aimed to turn up the heat indoors at the Liberty Ball. My performance is definitely for the office, I feel honored that I've been asked. For CBS Mornings, I'm Willie James Inman.

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