Phoenix man gearing up to play big part in his fourth presidential inauguration
Jan 18, 2017, 1:11 PM | Updated: 1:29 pm
(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
PHOENIX — For the fourth time, a Phoenix man is playing a big part in planning an upcoming presidential inauguration.
Gordon James, who owns Gordon C. James Public Relations in Phoenix, is serving as the senior adviser to the 58th Presidential Inauguration Committee, the group planning the Friday swearing in ceremony for President-elect Donald Trump.
“It’s a big deal and I enjoy it very much,” he said. “For me, it’s a great honor to be part of it. It’s how we transition our government and it’s unique in the world.”
James said every inauguration presents unique challenges. For Trump’s, it appears the weather is going to be a problem.
“Here’s two challenges: One is making sure everyone has their tickets and the weather. There’s a 90 percent chance of rain during Friday’s inauguration in Washington D.C.,” he said.
Much of the ceremonious day — the swearing in takes place on the steps of the Capitol, there’s a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue and live music outside the Lincoln Memorial — takes place outdoors.
James said he would be happy to help plan another inauguration after working on those for Trump, George H.W. Bush in 1989 and both of George W. Bush’s in 2001 and 2005.
“Sure — as long as I’m on this side of the dirt and if they call me,” he said.