Washington, D.C., is stepping up security measures around key government buildings in anticipation of possible unrest surrounding Election Day. Over the weekend, eight-foot metal fences were erected around the White House, U.S. Capitol, Treasury Department, and Vice President Kamala Harris’ residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory. These preparations are intended to bolster public safety and maintain order as the nation heads into a pivotal election week.
The Secret Service confirmed the installation of fences, adding that they’re working with local and federal partners in both Washington, D.C., and Palm Beach County, Florida, to ensure public safety. “These enhancements are not in response to any specific issue but are part of wide-ranging public safety preparations for Tuesday’s election,” a Secret Service spokesperson told Newsweek. Additionally, fences will be put up outside the convention center in West Palm Beach, where former President Donald Trump will host an election night event close to his Mar-a-Lago residence.
In Washington, Kamala Harris is planning an election night event at Howard University, her alma mater, prompting the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to announce temporary road closures and parking restrictions around the Shaw neighborhood. Businesses across the district have also taken steps to protect their property, with many boarding up storefronts in preparation for potential unrest.
The capital’s reinforced security measures echo the aftermath of the 2020 election, when supporters of then-President Trump, incited by unfounded claims of election fraud, stormed the U.S. Capitol. The violent breach sought to halt the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory, causing widespread alarm and drawing attention to the need for robust security measures.
In a statement to Newsweek, an MPD spokesperson noted that the department is coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to prepare for both Election Day and the upcoming 2024 presidential inauguration. “As with any other events in the District, it is our priority to ensure the safety and security of District residents and visitors,” the spokesperson said.
While there is currently no intelligence suggesting large-scale protests or violent activities, D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith stressed that the public should remain vigilant. She explained that the MPD would be on full alert, deploying all 3,300 eligible officers on 12-hour shifts to secure the city. “We will not tolerate any violence of any kind,” Smith said, underscoring that peaceful protests are permitted but unlawful activities will face consequences.
The MPD has made it clear that while the First Amendment rights to free expression will be respected, maintaining public order remains a top priority. “We recognize the importance of upholding the First Amendment rights of individuals to peacefully express their views, and we are committed to facilitating lawful demonstrations while maintaining public order,” an MPD representative noted.
Further reinforcing security, the National Park Service recently closed portions of Lafayette Park and nearby White House sidewalks as they gear up for the January inauguration. Although these closures typically begin in November, construction was initiated on October 1 this year to allow extra time for safety preparations. The closures around these areas are anticipated to last through February 2025.
As the election draws near, both federal and local authorities in D.C. are taking extensive measures to ensure a secure environment for residents, visitors, and officials alike.
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