Fears are mounting as Washington, D.C. security officials brace for a rally in support of those arrested and charged in January’s Capitol riots.
Fears are mounting ahead of a planned rally Saturday in defense of supporters of former President Donald Trump who stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, prompting Congressional security officials to reinstall a temporary fence. Capitol Police said they are monitoring the situation and “aware of concerning online chatter” regarding the demonstration. It’s still unclear how many people are planning to attend or if officials should expect domestic extremist groups like the Proud Boys. Security officials say they hope to prepare better and avoid the mistakes of January 6. At the riots, Trump supporters converged on the Capitol, causing violence and destruction as they broke past security gates and officers. Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger said in a statement that his force “will enforce the law and not tolerate violence.” For more reporting from the Associated Press, see below. The announcement came hours after Manger and other security officials briefed congressional leaders on the preparations and the plans for a temporary fence, which were first reported Thursday by the Associated Press. Leaving the meeting, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he felt law enforcement is “ready for whatever might happen” on Saturday.
