Security fears see rehearsal, trip cancelled

WASHINGTON: A rehearsal for US Presidentelect Joe Biden's inauguration scheduled for Monday has been postponed for a day because of security concerns, Politico reported yesterday, citing two people with knowledge of the decision.

Biden's team had also cancelled an Amtrak trip from Wilmington to Washington planned for Tuesday, due to heightened security concerns, the report added. Biden will be inaugurated on January 20.

Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray said earlier the FBI was looking into individuals who could possibly threaten the safety of the inauguration.

Officials have warned of plans for armed protests in Washington and all 50 states and activist groups have been concerned about the potential for violence.

Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez are among those scheduled to take the stage at the ceremony.

The two will perform at the event, which will also feature remarks from a black firefighter from Georgia, a former Youth Poet Laureate, a Catholic priest, and a pastor from Biden's hometown of Wilmington, Delaware.

Lady Gaga will sing the national anthem and Lopez will give a musical performance.

US Vicepresident Mike Pence yesterday vowed to uphold American history and ensure a safe transition of power to Biden. — Reuters