Tight Security Featuring Drones, Snipers, and Razor Wire Surrounds Donald Trump’s Inauguration | US News
Security for Donald Trump’s inauguration includes drones, snipers, razor wire fencing, and a deployment of 25,000 personnel.
As hundreds of thousands gather in Washington DC for the ceremony, a heightened security presence is evident.
The event is classified as a “national special security event,” which facilitates additional funding and enhanced coordination among agencies like the Secret Service, Homeland Security, and local law enforcement.
More than 25,000 military and law enforcement members, including National Guard troops, will be present throughout the city.
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Heightened security was visible at Donald Trump’s recent rally in the capital. Pic: Reuters
Troops have been patrolling the capital since the weekend. Pic: Reuters
Approximately 30 miles of anti-climb fencing, some equipped with razor wire, have been installed around the White House and Capitol.
William McCool, chief agent of the Secret Service Washington Field Office, informed the press about the extensive measures in place.
“Visitors can expect to see tactical teams, CDU (Counter Drones Unit) units, officers positioned on rooftops, checkpoints, road closures, and concrete barricades,” he explained.
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In a press conference on January 13, he addressed potential violent protests.
“We’re ready for any potential incidents. One of our precautions is the secure perimeter around the Capitol complex, which we hope will deter protests from getting too close,” he said.
“We are well-resourced… to handle any disturbances,” he added.
Razor wire has been added to a fence around the US Capitol. Pic: Reuters
Due to freezing temperatures ranging from -7 to -1°C (20-30°F), the inauguration will be held indoors at the US Capitol Rotunda rather than outdoors as originally planned.
Over the weekend, nearly 4,000 police officers were sworn in or deputized to temporarily support security efforts in Washington DC, having been enlisted from various states.
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Due to the weather, the planned parade down Pennsylvania Avenue has been canceled, and will now occur at the 20,000-seat Capital One Arena in downtown Washington.
Increased security has resulted in street closures near the White House. Pic: Reuters
The last indoor inauguration was for Ronald Reagan’s second term, which took place at -14°C (7°F).
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Roger Stone, a political consultant closely associated with Trump, expressed that he prefers the indoor inauguration for security reasons rather than weather.
“I feel it’s safer inside. We’ve undeniably faced two assassination attempts against him. Personally, I believe he will be much more secure under these circumstances,” Mr. Stone remarked.
Officers from Georgia State Police were sworn in recently to bolster security in Washington DC. Pic: Reuters
Arkansas State Police officers among nearly 4,000 personnel from other US states deployed for the event. Pic: Reuters
Attendees queued for Donald Trump’s rally on Sunday at the Capital One Arena, showing a relaxed attitude towards the increased security measures, considering prior threats to the president-elect’s safety.
“It’s unfortunate, but we live in this environment… it’s necessary,” remarked one Trump supporter.
“Anyone with ill intentions only needs to get it right once,” they added to Sky’s US partner NBC.
Another attendee stated: “Given the threats he’s faced, it’s good that security is ramped up.”
Extensive security precautions, including fencing, have been established. Pic: CTK/AP
Prior to the inauguration, the White House collaborated with Trump’s transition team to mitigate any possible attack risks.
Security authorities maintain that they have not detected any specific, coordinated threats but are vigilant about potential lone wolf attackers, similar to the New Orleans attacker.
Earlier this month, US law enforcement and intelligence agencies expressed concerns about potential copycat vehicle-ramming attacks, akin to the New Year’s Day incident, where an army veteran drove a truck into a crowd.
