Pittsburgh Post-gazette on Capitol security must project strength, not fear:

The sanctity and security of the U.S. Capitol has not been breached since that woeful day in Januar y. But whispers and threats circulate in dark corners of the internet, and a nation remains on edge.

Lawmakers, Capitol Police, the National Guard, the Federal Bureau of Investigation — all are vigilant. Security fencing and razor wire continue to slash across this countr y’s seat of democracy. A clear message has been sent: “We are ready for the next attack.”

This message does not quite hit the mark. Rather, our countr y should exemplify the words of President Theodore Roosevelt: “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” We must encourage the appearance of business as usual, all the while preparing — being prepared — to inter vene in any further disruptions to and within our seat of government.

The events of Jan. 6 will remain etched in this countr y’s memor y forever. It is part of our history now. Lawmakers and citizens are understandably shaken.

A bulking up of security is justifiable, especially given the spike in threats against lawmakers, as reported by Capitol Police. And Jan. 6 response protocols required review and revision. The acting chief, Yogananda Pittman, has called for an increase in the number of analysts and officers on staff and the creation of a dedicated “stand-ready” force, 80 officers strong, equipped to respond to emergencies at any time.

What’s more, the delays that prevented National Guard troops from arriving on-scene quickly enough to assist the over whelmed Capitol Police are (rightly) under sharp scrutiny. And communications issues that kept the FBI’S warnings about the mob’s potential for violence from being properly disseminated are certainly being intensely examined, as well.

Evaluation and adjustment: These are common sense moves. An ever-present show of force is too much. The goal should be to be “prepared” but “behind the scenes.”