Long-Time Inaugural Parade Announcer Ousted By Trump (VIDEO)


Charlie Brotman, 89, has served as the lead announcer at the last 16 presidential inaugurations starting with that of Dwight D. Eisenhower. With just two weeks until the inauguration of our 45th President, Donald Trump, Brotman had already begun preparing. He was “heartbroken” to learn that he was not invited to Trump’s inauguration.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) told him in an email, which read in part:

“First and foremost, on behalf of the PIC Staff we want to thank you for your service to this country as the Lead Announcer for the Inaugural Parade. There is no question that you are a Washington Institution and a National Treasure.”

Presidential Inaugural Committee Director of Communications Boris Epshteyn said this in a statement:

“Since 1957, millions of Americans and countless entertainers have come to recognize Charlie Brotman as the voice of the inaugural parade. The Presidential Inaugural Committee will be proud to honor Charlie as Announcer Chairman Emeritus on January 20th. We are thrilled for Steve Ray to be introducing a new generation of Americans to the grand traditions of the inaugural parade.”

Brotman said he was “destroyed” when he received the news. He called the Presidential Inaugural Committee trying to get some answers. No one would really answer his question directly, but he speculated that it might be ageism. Steve Ray, Brotman’s replacement, supported Donald Trump’s campaign, so that could be part of the reason.

He said this about his replacement, Steve Ray:

“I want [Ray] to do good. As opposed to, boy, I hope he fouls up so they say, ‘We want Charlie back.’ No. I don’t want that at all.”

“… I’m saying, ‘You know what? Good luck, young man. I hope you do spectacular.’”

He is contemplating on whether to accept this title, “Chairman Emeritus.” He has also gotten invitations from multiple media outlets.

Brotman remained optimistic by adding:

“I have a whole bunch of opportunities. Lots of offers, but I haven’t accepted anything yet. I’m an ordinary guy in an extraordinary situation. Watch out world—I may become a star; a real commercial success.” 

Here is an interview with Brotman after President Barack Obama’s second Inauguration:

Featured image via YouTube screenshot

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