Peaceful Transition

Washington, states on guard against Inauguration Day threats

Our nation’s capital is beefing up security in preparation for Wednesday’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.

States are doing the same thing at their own capitols. A third of governors called on the National Guard for extra security. Some capitol and other official buildings are closed to the public.

The Guard has been called to Washington, as well. But first the FBI is looking into the backgrounds of all 25,000 Guard troops assigned to inauguration security. They are worried because there may be Guard members who sympathize with extremist groups and the possibility of an insider plot to disrupt the proceedings.

The FBI has warned armed groups are planning protests in Washington and at state capitols. Maybe planning something worse. There have been a few gatherings of armed citizens across the U.S. in the past several days but, so far, such demonstrations have been peaceful.

Let’s hope they stay that way. Americans have the right to protest. That’s fine. But no matter how anyone feels about the election or the new president, no senseless violence, will succeed in changing the course ahead. Anyone planning an extreme act should understand that. And understand the certain risk of arrest or the real possibility of their own death.

This is America. Peaceful transition of power is a long, proud tradition. With any luck, that will continue Wednesday and for years to come.