Mass. Guard set to secure Trump impeachment trial
Massachusetts National Guard members will again deploy to Washington, D.C., where they will provide extra security around the U.S. Capitol during former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial next month.
Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday signed an order approving up to 700 members to travel to Washington “in the coming days,” where they will provide direct support to the U.S. Secret Service. They are expected to return on Feb. 23, according to the state.
The U.S. Army confirmed up to 7,000 guard members from multiple states will be stationed in the Capitol as federal law enforcement officials examine a number of threats aimed at members of Congress as Trump’s impeachment trial approaches.
The threats, and concerns that armed protesters could return to sack the Capitol, have prompted the U.S. Capitol Police, Department of Defense, National Guard Bureau, and Secret Service to insist on the redeployment of thousands of National Guard troops to Washington as the Senate moves forward with plans for Trump’s trial.
The mission is separate from the 500 personnel who served last week in D.C. in support of President Biden’s inauguration events as security was stepped up around the Hill in the wake of the U.S. Capitol riots, according to the state. Those guardsmen returned home to Massachusetts just this weekend.
“The Massachusetts National Guard trains regularly with military, law enforcement, and civilian agencies to provide a broad spectrum of services in support of security, logistics, disaster relief, and other missions. The Guard has a proven track record of success supporting civilian authorities and their frequent side-by-side training with state and local first responders makes them well-suited for this mission,” the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security said in a statement.
The Senate trial for Trump is expected to begin the week of Feb. 8 under a deal struck between both parties.
Hundreds of coronavirus cases have been reported among the 25,000 National
Guard members stationed in Washington during Biden’s inauguration and state authorities said precautions are being taken to protect the health of Massachusetts troops.
“This includes pre-departure screenings, COVID-19 testing, and mandatory mask wear. Additionally, Soldiers and Airmen will have individual rooms while deployed to the D.C. area to further reduce risks during this pandemic,” a release said.
Wire services contributed to this report.