Heavy boost in security forces for inauguration
WASHINGTON — This time, they’ll be ready.
The inauguration of Presidentelect Joe Biden will be held on the same risers in the same spot at the U. S. Capitol where a violent, proTrump mob descended last week. But the two events aren’t even comparable from a security standpoint, said Michael Plati, U. S. Secret Service special agent in charge, who is leading the inauguration security.
The inauguration is designated as a “national special security event,” which clears the way for communication, funding and preparation between multiple agencies in Washington, like the Capitol Police, Pentagon, Homeland Security and Districtarea police. Other such events are the State of the Union, the Super Bowl and the Democratic and Republican National Conventions.
Last week’s rally turned violent siege was viewed as a free speech event in the days before, despite multiple warnings about the potential for violence from rightwing extremist groups.
“I don’t want to use the expression that we’re comparing apples to oranges,” Plati said, but the event is planned over a year with contingencies, and they anticipate the possibility of extreme violence.
Law enforcement officials never go into too much detail about security so wouldbe attackers aren’t tipped off. But Plati said they’ve taken into account the siege: “It’s a poignant reminder of what can happen.”
And the inauguration will look different from other presidential inaugurations because of last week’s riot, with extremely tight security around the entire capital region. At least 10,000 National Guard troops will be in place by Saturday. Some will be obvious: officers in uniforms, checkpoints, metal detectors, fencing. Some won’t. The Department of Homeland Security is setting increased inauguration security measures in motion earlier than scheduled, citing an “evolving security landscape” leading up to the event.
Next week’s event was already going to be pared down because of COVID19; Biden had asked supporters to say home and watch from afar. In keeping with crowd size restrictions to slow the spread of the virus, traditional activities like the parade and the inaugural balls will be virtual.
The theme for the event will be “America United,” an issue that’s long been a central focus for Biden but one that’s taken on added weight.