Synopsis
Washington, DC is under strict security measures as law enforcement prepares for a large influx of attendees for Donald Trump's inauguration. Streets have been closed, and additional safety protocols are in place to ensure public security during this significant event.Key Takeaways
- Washington, DC has closed many roads for Trump's inauguration.
- 25,000 law enforcement personnel are on duty for public safety.
- Capital One Arena is a focal point for inauguration events.
- Supporters are enthusiastic despite challenging weather conditions.
- Security measures have been intensified following recent attacks.
Washington, Jan 20 (NationPress) US law enforcement officials are on heightened alert and have restricted access to several streets in Washington, DC, in anticipation of a surge in inauguration attendees.
Numerous roads surrounding the Capitol, the White House, Capital One Arena, and adjacent areas have been cordoned off with fences or barricades for several days.
On Sunday afternoon, crews were actively putting up fences, particularly around Capital One Arena, as the inauguration speech, prayers, and various addresses were confirmed to take place inside the Capitol Rotunda.
This change elevated the significance of Capital One Arena, where US President-elect Donald Trump hosted a rally on Sunday and is expected to engage with his supporters following the inauguration ceremony on Monday.
The security perimeter around Capital One Arena has been extended, and additional checkpoints were implemented to prevent a repeat of the recent terrorist incident in New Orleans, as reported by local sources quoting Matt McCool, the special agent in charge of the Washington field office of the US Secret Service, according to Xinhua news agency.
In addition to police presence, National Guard units were significantly deployed around Capital One Arena, which hosted around 20,000 attendees for a Trump rally.
Four subway stations will be entirely closed on Monday, and multiple bridges and ramps from Virginia to Washington, DC, may also be shut down on Inauguration Day.
Reportedly, 25,000 law enforcement officials are on duty to ensure public safety throughout the inauguration.
Attendees lined up for hours to participate in the rally, which extended over a mile. Nevertheless, thousands were unable to enter due to limited capacity, and some opted to leave as rain and snow began to fall over the capital.
Trump will take the oath of office at noon on Monday, with temperatures expected to hover around minus five degrees Celsius.
Leah Aguanno, a Trump supporter from Westfield, New Jersey, endured a lengthy wait in line on Sunday, proudly holding a Trump-Vance flag.
"Despite the adverse weather, I am thrilled to be here participating in this historic moment. I anticipate significant changes and numerous orders to be reversed tomorrow once Trump assumes office," Aguanno expressed.
Aguanno also mentioned her hopes for Trump to lift the ban on TikTok and negotiate with China concerning the immensely popular social media platform.
"TikTok has transformed many lives and provided purpose to a lot of individuals," Aguanno added.
Chazz Hanson, another Trump supporter from Pickens County, Georgia, shared with Xinhua that he secured a ticket to Capital One Arena for a live viewing of Trump's inauguration address.
Hanson expressed optimism about Trump making essential changes, reflecting on the challenges faced over the past three years.
