• Former Vice President Mike Pence will attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.
• His invitation is customary for all former presidents and vice presidents.
• Trump's decision to move the swearing-in ceremony to the Capitol Rotunda raises seating concerns.
• The pair's relationship remains strained due to past political conflicts.
• Pence and Trump recently interacted at a memorial service for former President Carter.

Former Vice President Mike Pence has confirmed plans to attend the inauguration of President-elect Donald J. Trump, as reported by multiple sources including The New York Times. The invitation to the inauguration was extended by the congressional committee overseeing the event, a practice followed for all former presidents and vice presidents. Notably, Pence's presence comes amid a tumultuous political relationship, as Trump selected Senator JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate for the upcoming election, sidelining Pence.

Complicating matters, Trump has requested to host his second swearing-in ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda, which can only accommodate around 600 attendees, raising questions about seating arrangements for former officeholders. Pence's path to the inauguration will be shaped by their frayed history, particularly following the events of January 6, 2021, when Pence was forced to evacuate the Capitol due to a violent mob of Trump supporters, some of whom chanted threats against him.

The relationship between Pence and Trump had soured after Pence stood by his constitutional duty during the certification of President Biden's Electoral College victory, despite Trump's pressure for him to intervene. Their rift deepened after Pence briefly entered the 2024 Republican primaries against Trump.

In a recent encounter at the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, the two exchanged handshakes, suggesting some level of cordiality despite their past. Following these developments, Pence has called for Trump to reaffirm his commitment to defend Taiwan amid ongoing tensions with China, highlighting the global implications of such geopolitical dynamics. For more detailed coverage, visit India Times.