Security concerns rise across DC ahead of Election Day
Nov 04, 2024
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) -- Concerns about violence following the outcome of the 2024 election have led authorities across Washington, D.C. to take extra precautions.
On Sunday, Nov. 3, security fencing was erected to secure the perimeter around the White House.One bystander who spoke with DC News Now said the added security measures are unfortunate but necessary.
“I feel like with Election Day coming up tomorrow, you feel like they have to put the security fencing around the White House,” said Paul Coussan.
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Pat Setji said, “I feel like tomorrow's going to be okay. I feel like people want to see where the votes land and hopefully there won't be anything. But I feel like that's a good thing to have just for now.”
The black security fences span across several blocks, enclosing Lafayette Square.
Many remember the chaos that broke out on Jan. 6 as a violent mob stormed the United States Capitol, largely due to disinformation about the 2020 election results.“Well, I think you've got to be concerned after what happened on January the sixth. I think it could be a threat to America and a threat to the whole world if Trump is elected again,” said Nick Farnden, who is visiting D.C. from England, to observe Tuesday's election.
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The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Pamela Smith said that the department supports people peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights, but violence will not be tolerated.
“While we have not identified any credible threats to our city, we will remain vigilant and ready and prepared to address any issues of concern that may arise across our city," said Chief Smith.