Anticipation Of Riots Ahead Of Joe Biden's Inauguration, Several States In The US Activate National Guard
JAKARTA - A number of states in the United States have stepped up security at local capitol buildings following a warning from the FBI regarding possible armed demonstrations planned for statewide.
Launching CNN, the warning takes effect from Saturday last week until at least the day of the inauguration of the President and Vice President-elect of the United States on Wednesday next week. It also mentioned the threat of 'rebellion' if President Donald Trump was removed before January 20.
Anticipating riots on Capitol Hill to occur elsewhere while responding to the FBI's warning, a number of states have tightened their security. Especially states that allow someone to carry firearms in the open, as well as states where Trump claims to have fraudulent the results of the US Presidential Election.
MichiganThis state prohibits its citizens from carrying firearms openly around the Michigan Capitol. This is in anticipation of unrest similar to that on Capitol Hill, as well as an incident in the spring when demonstrators who resist the lockdown caused by COVID-19, crowd with guns.
"The Capitol Commission's action to ban open arms on the Capitol is a good start. However, further action is needed," said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Meanwhile, Mayor Slim Andy Schor asked Governor Whitmer to activate the Michigan National Guard, to provide additional security and crowd control measures, especially on the day of the inauguration of the President and Vice President-elect of the United States.
"The horrific scene last week on Capitol Hill was an attack on our democracy. It shows we need to be prepared enough for violent action, because President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn in," he said.
WisconsinWisconsin State Governor Tony Evers authorized the Wisconsin National Guard to assist the Capitol Police in Madison. In addition, all windows on the first floor of the Wisconsin Capitol Building will also be closed in anticipation of potential protests.
"Wisconsin National Guard members will mobilize active state duty to support safety and security efforts. Serve in a support role to local authorities and carry out security missions," he said in a statement released Monday this week.
"The mobilized forces will serve in State Active Duty to support the Capitol Police. To protect operational security, we will not discuss troop numbers, movements, timing, equipment, tactics and procedures," the statement said.
PennsylvaniaPennsylvania State Governor spokesman Tom Wolf said the Pennsylvania Capitol Building had been closed to the public since last December due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We haven't heard anything specifically about the protests, but are prepared for whatever might happen," Wolf said.
The day after the riots on Capitol Hill, as many as 1,000 Pennsylvania National Guard members were activated to support the DC National Guard, to support civilian authorities in Washington. In total Pennsylvania has 19,000 National Guard members.
"The Pennsylvania Guard members are highly trained and well prepared to protect us. They also have extensive experience working with the DC National Guard from previous presidential training and inaugurations," said Pennsylvania National Guard official Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler.
GeorgiaThe state of Georgia kicked off its 2021 legislative session Monday this week by increasing security around the Georgia Capitol Building, including installing new fences and armed guards.
Meanwhile, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has become aware of reports of a possible armed protest in the coming days.
"We are communicating with our partners and will continue to do what is necessary to ensure safety and security," said GBI Director of Public Affairs Nelly Miles.
Likewise, the Atlanta Police Department (PPE) is preparing to secure its territory, while coordinating with local, state and federal law enforcement officials.
"We are ready to respond to protests or illegal activities. If that happens, we are ready to respond quickly. The safety and security of the city and its citizens is our priority," said APD in his statement.