Oklahoma lawmakers celebrate Trump’s inauguration at Inaugural Ball

The nation's capital is a busy place this weekend as events are underway celebrating President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.

Our Washington Bureau Chief Alex Cameron was at the inaugural ball catching up with Sen. James Lankford, Congresswoman Stephanie Bice and Congressman Frank Lucas ahead of Monday's inauguration.

Oklahoma Presence at the Inauguration

The lead-up to Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th president brought hundreds of Oklahomans to Washington, D.C., with many attending the Oklahoma State Society’s inaugural ball at the International Spy Museum.

The sold-out event was a testament to the state’s pride and enthusiasm for the incoming administration.

Senator James Lankford spoke of the palpable excitement among attendees.

"This is a big gala for just Oklahomans, and it’s completely packed," he said. Lankford emphasized the optimism surrounding the transition, particularly regarding Trump’s plans for the economy and national security. "People are gathering here, braving the cold, because they’re excited about what’s to come."

Welcoming Oklahomans with Open Doors

Though cold weather forced parts of the inauguration indoors, Oklahoma lawmakers made special efforts to ensure visitors still had a meaningful experience. Senator Lankford’s office became a warm refuge for ticket holders.

"We’re opening up our office to ticket holder, with every TV on to watch the ceremony, and Chick-fil-A for everyone to enjoy," he said, adding that even his wife was helping host the gathering.

Similarly, Congresswoman Stephanie Bice and Senator Markwayne Mullin partnered to host a luncheon for Oklahoma attendees.

"Yeah we felt pretty sad for those folks that spent a lot of time and resources to make it out here for the inauguration. So Sen. Mullin and I have partnered up and we're going to do an event here in D.C. for all those folks that had come in to celebrate the inauguration. If they're going to watch it on television on the mall, they might as well watch it on television somewhere warm. So we're going to host everybody for lunch and get everyone together to celebrate this great day," Bice said.

Optimism for Oklahoma's Future

Oklahoma’s congressional delegation is optimistic about the opportunities under Trump’s administration, particularly for industries critical to the state. Congressman Frank Lucas noted that the new administration’s policies would favor Oklahoma’s strengths.

"Oklahoma is an ag state, an energy state, and a manufacturing state," Lucas said. "We believe, in Trump's administration, the tax and regulatory policies will reflect our way of doing business."

Lucas also highlighted the importance of reversing certain executive orders. "The first act, I believe' after Trump is sworn in will likely be to sign an executive order terminating all of the Biden political appointees. And the bureaucrats, the career people, will run the administration for a few weeks or months until the new appointees are confirmed by the Senate," he said.

Congresswoman Bice echoed this, stating that more than 100 executive orders are expected in the first days of the administration, many of which will address issues like border policy and energy.

Looking Ahead

As Trump takes office, Oklahoma leaders are focused on advancing key legislative priorities. From agriculture to economic reforms, the delegation is committed to ensuring Oklahoma benefits from the new administration’s policies.

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Q: What can people expect from the start of the new administration?

A: Congresswoman Stephanie Bice noted that President Trump plans to issue over 100 executive orders in the first few days. Congress will focus on key legislation, including border provisions and economic initiatives. Bills such as the Lake and Riley Act and the Riley Gaines Act have already progressed to the Senate.

Q: How is the cold weather affecting the inauguration plans?

A: Due to cold weather, the inauguration ceremony is being moved indoors.

Q: What special event is the Oklahoma delegation hosting for visiting Oklahomans?

A: Senator Markwayne Mullin and Congresswoman Bice are hosting a lunch event in D.C. to provide a warm gathering spot for Oklahomans who traveled for the inauguration.

Q: Where is President-elect Trump spending the evening before his inauguration?

A: President-elect Trump is reportedly at his club in Sterling, Virginia, where a fireworks show is planned.