Reports: Pence returning to Indiana after inauguration

Vice President Mike Pence is trekking back to Indiana today.

NBC News reports Pence will fly to Columbus in the afternoon following President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration. Indiana Republicans said he’s expected to “thank friends and longtime supporters” after his role has vice president is complete. Pence tweeted a thank you to America on Tuesday, calling it an honor and privilege to serve as VP.

Pence and the top Republican leaders in Congress are skipping President Donald Trump’s big send off event at Joint Base Andrews today. The Vice President’s office cited the logistics in getting Pence from the base in Maryland back to the Capitol in time to attend the inauguration. The top two Republicans in Congress, Senator Mitch McConnell and Congressman Kevin McCarthy will also not attend the Trump event. Trump is the first President in 150 years to skip the swearing in of his successor.

Air Force Two photo courtesy of Kentucky National Guard