Authorities Heighten Security Measures for Trump Inauguration and Electoral Certification

As Washington, D.C., prepares for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration and the certification of electoral votes, officials have designated these events as “national special security events”—the highest level of security classification. In a show of heightened vigilance following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, officials are implementing extensive protective measures and fortifying protocols to safeguard the peaceful transfer of power.At a recent briefing, D.C. Council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) acknowledged rising concerns, noting the increase in inquiries from residents seeking reassurance on safety measures. “You probably, like me, are fielding a lot of questions from constituents… asking more details about that, looking to make sure that the region is prepared,” Allen stated.Officials said they are committed to a robust security strategy, detailing plans that include anti-climb fencing, road closures, vehicle checkpoints, and parking restrictions throughout the District. U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger assured attendees that comprehensive improvements have been made to avoid the intelligence failures that marked January 6, 2021. “There were a lot of intelligence failures four years ago, and to say that those have been resolved and improved would be an understatement,” Manger said.The Capitol attack resulted in over 1,500 federal criminal charges, with approximately 562...