By Rene Atayan, Chair, Bronxville Republican Party

Feb. 1, 2017:  I had the good fortune to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.  

The New York Republican Party assembled a delegation, and in respect of Bronxville's long-standing support of GOP candidates in all elections, I was invited to participate. 

It is noteworthy that President Trump has had a history of doing business in Westchester County, has a residence in Westchester, and has long-standing relationships with many in Bronxville.

Also noteworthy is that Donald Trump is the first private citizen to be elected president, having not held prior legislative, governmental, or military office, and is the oldest to have been elected, at 70. With Hillary Clinton at 69, either candidate affords hope that "70 is the new 50"! 

The NY GOP organized an eventful few days in DC from its base at the Lowes Madison on 15th & M. There was a lively breakfast presentation from Newt Gingrich and Ed Rollins, evening parties and balls, all attended by many supporters who spoke, including Rudy Giuliani, Doug Lebda, Dinesh D'Souza, Scott Baio, Yonkers-born Jon Voight, Fallen Navy Seal Ty Woods's widow, Dr. Dorothy Narvaez-Woods, and many more. The spirt of the event was upbeat, forward looking, and very inclusive.

The highlight, of course, was the inauguration itself. Our delegation took the Metro and enjoyed the anticipation with individuals of all ages, genders, and races, arriving from all over the country. Bikers for Trump, people who drove across the country, many children, ladies with walkers, veterans in wheelchairs--everyone was excited and bright, despite the leaden sky. One young Hawaiian man had saved up and come all by himself from the Aloha State to witness the event. He admitted he was literally one man on an island in his support for President Trump but was heartened and hopeful for what would be his future under a Trump presidency.

While many in our delegation stood in sections near the Capitol or had seats, our primary viewing venue was in the comfort of DC's Newseum. It was a perfect spot to view the swearing-in, socialize, celebrate, and take in the parade. 

Sadly, both Friday and Saturday were marred by violence and vulgarity. Over 200 people were arrested Friday, and we observed firsthand how threatening and violent they were. 

Our bus was diverted because rocks and Molotov cocktails were being thrown at the busses ahead of us. The rioting resulted in our bus's being diverted, and getting to the celebratory balls was extremely difficult. Nonetheless, we were able to spend the evening with our Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, who takes great pride in the leadership that Mayor Marvin has exhibited over the years in our community.  

On Saturday, our hotel lobby was stormed by protesters saying vile things to guests--they were eventually asked by staff to leave. The demonstrators blocked emergency vehicles' ingress and egress, displayed and chanted vulgar threats en masse in front of small children, and left a trail of garbage, utterly disrespecting the public spaces they occupied. 

Overall, the inauguration was a very memorable experience, and I returned from Washington with a deep appreciation of the passions, energy, and patriotism that make our United States a great country.     

Pictured here:  Rene Atayan and County Executive Rob Astorino at the inauguration.

Photo courtesy Rene Atayan