Thank you so much for contacting me to request tickets for
the Inaugural swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol Building on January 20,
2009.
To date, I have received well over 3,000 individual requests
for tickets to the ceremony, with more than 100 additional requests coming in
every day. I am so pleased about this unprecedented
level of excitement and, in reading many of your requests, the enthusiasm and
passion many of you have demonstrated for this truly historic moment in our
nation's history.
Unfortunately, as you may already be aware from news
reports, each congressional office will receive only 198 tickets - one per
person - to the official swearing-in ceremony.
It is, therefore, simply not possible for me to honor every request as
much as I would surely like to do so.
At this point, regrettably, I am no longer able to accept
ticket requests. For those who have
already submitted a request to my office, rest assured that your request is
being processed and considered.
I understand that many people will be frustrated and
disappointed by this outcome. However, there
are still many opportunities to participate in the Inauguration festivities here
in Washington. While those receiving tickets will be closest
to the Capitol Building for the swearing-in, all
citizens are welcome to attend without cost and without tickets.
News reports have indicated that the official Inaugural
committee is making plans for people to observe the swearing-in at other
locations around the National Mall and possibly at other venues throughout Washington. The post-swearing-in Inaugural Parade is
scheduled to take place immediately after the event along Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol Building to the White House. This event is likewise free and open for all
to attend. I encourage you to visit http://inaugural.senate.gov to explore
in greater depth official plans for the Inauguration.
Once again, I regret that I am unable to honor every
request. I hope that you will continue
to contact me on other issues of mutual concern. With warm regards, I remain,
Sincerely,
Alcee
L. Hastings
Member
of Congress
|