FBI warns of nationwide protests

WASHINGTON — The FBI is warning of plans for armed protests at all 50 state capitols and in Washington in the days leading up to Presidentelect Joe Biden’s inauguration, stoking fears of more bloodshed after last week’s deadly siege at the U. S. Capitol.

An internal FBI bulletin warned the protests may start later this week and extend through Biden’s Jan. 20 inauguration, according to two law enforcement officials who read details of the memo to the Associated Press. Investigators believe some of the people are members of extremist groups, the officials said. The bulletin was first reported by ABC.

“Armed protests are being planned at all 50 state capitols from 16 January through at least 20 January, and at the U. S. Capitol from 17 January through 20 January,” the bulletin said, according to one official. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity.

The FBI issued at least one other bulletin before the riots last week. On Dec. 29, it warned of the potential for armed demonstrators targeting legislatures, the second official said.

Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said the Guard is also monitoring.

“We’re keeping a look across the entire country to make sure ... that our Guards in every state are in close coordination with their local law enforcement agencies to provide any support requested.”

In a report Saturday, the SITE Intelligence Group, which tracks online extremist activity, also warns that the Capitol attack has emboldened Trump backers.

“No matter how all this plays out, it’s only the beginning,” posted a user on The Donald message board, according to the report.