On January 20, 2009, the Capitol witnessed the arrival of numerous dignitaries to witness the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States. Among the distinguished guests were members of the 111th House of Representatives, U.S. Governors, the Mayor of Washington D.C., Supreme Court Justices, members of the Inaugural Committee, Cabinet Members, and former Vice Presidents Dan Quayle, Al Gore, and Walter Mondale.

Former Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton graced the event alongside the daughters of President George W. Bush and President-Elect Barack Obama. First Lady Laura Bush, Lynne Cheney, First Lady-Elect Michelle Obama, and Jill Biden were also present.

The ceremony was attended by Vice President Dick Cheney, Vice President-Elect Joseph Biden, outgoing President George W. Bush, and President-Elect Barack Obama, marking a momentous transition of power in American history.