WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTVR) -- A little more than 100 miles north of Richmond, a different kind of political party was forming Sunday night.
Virginians spent the night partying to celebrate the 57th presidential inauguration.
One of those in attendance was Virginia Senator Mark Warner, who said this is one time he does not have to deal with the usual Washington gridlock.
“At least for a few hours, we’re not Democrats and Republicans; we’re Americans first and foremost,” Warner said. “I hope we can all take a moment tomorrow and pause and reflect on the fact that we have a lot of problems in this country, but I wouldn’t trade our position with anybody else in the world.”
Before the parties, there was a lot of prep work as security tightened in D.C.
Police agencies from different cities across the country, including Richmond police, are lending a hand as the Department of Homeland security expects up to 700,000 people on the National Mall.
Some anxious well-wishers got a sneak preview of the events Sunday. One woman, who said was excited to be a part of the historic event, represented the sentiments of many in attendance.
Richard Blanco, who is gay and will read a poem for President Obama, was also elated to be part of the celebration.
“I think just my being picked as the first gay inaugural poet in and of itself is a statement of where America is heading,” Blanco said.
Watch CBS 6 News Monday for exclusive inauguration reports from Lorenzo Hall.
