Washington's inauguration is normally a ball - now it's a 'ghost town with soldiers'

An illuminated and barricaded checkpoint is seen on a nearly empty and closed street, days ahead of U.S. President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration, in Washington, D.C., U.S. January 18, 2021. REUTERS/Mike Segar

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Central Washington is an armed fortress, fenced off with razor wire and surrounded by 25,000 National Guard troops ahead of President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration on Wednesday, a stark contrast to previous inaugurations, when the United States capital erupted in days of celebration.

The COVID-19 pandemic had already canceled the inaugural balls. Now the National Mall is closed to the public due to threats of violence from groups who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Almost none of the public will witness firsthand the transition of power, souring the mood of Washingtonians.