Law enforcement on high alert for Trump inauguration after 2024 assassination attempts
Federal, state, and local law enforcement officials are ramping up security measures in Washington, D.C., ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20. Thousands of officers and agents from various agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department, U.S. Capitol Police, the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, and the National Guard, will be on duty to ensure the safety of the event.
In light of recent security incidents, including a U.S. military veteran detonating fireworks outside a Trump hotel and a man attempting to set fire to a car near mourners paying respects to former President Jimmy Carter, security officials are on high alert. Additionally, there were two foiled attempts on the president-elect’s life during his campaign for a second term.
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed confidence in law enforcement and warned residents to expect road closures leading up to the inauguration. Matt McCool, special agent in charge for the Secret Service’s Washington Field Office, announced that temporary flight restrictions will be in place, and the U.S. Coast Guard will enforce maritime restrictions.
The FBI’s Washington Field Office stated that there are currently no specific or credible threats for Inauguration Day, but urged the public to remain vigilant. The National Guard will deploy 7,800 troops for the event, and nearly 4,000 officers from across the country will provide additional support.
Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn in on the west front of the U.S. Capitol, with thousands of attendees expected to undergo thorough screening by U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement officials. Ticketed attendees alone are projected to reach nearly 250,000.
U.S. Capitol police have issued guidelines for attendees, advising against bringing items like alcohol, bicycles, tripods, large bags, balloons, and other potentially disruptive items. Security measures, including additional fencing and concrete barriers, will be heightened for the inauguration, making it one of the most heavily secured events in recent history.
With the safety and security of all attendees as the top priority, officials are working diligently to ensure a smooth and secure transition of power on Inauguration Day.
