WASHINGTON — Violence, riots or other unlawful behavior will not be tolerated, the mayor and police chief said as D.C. braces for its first presidential election since the last one which led to the Capitol Riots.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Police Chief Pamela Smith briefed the District on election week security Monday.
As the district gears up for a presidential election, potential unrest in the nation's capital is a major concern for many.
Several businesses along 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest near the White House have already decided to board up.
New temporary fencing has gone up around the White House, the Eisenhower building and the Naval Observatory.
During a security briefing at DC Police's new Joint Operations Command Center on 4th Street NW, Bowser said they are prepared for potential demonstrations starting from Election Day through inauguration.
The mayor will hold weekly meetings leading up the inauguration to brief businesses and residents about any potential threats.
Bowser said she anticipates calling in the National Guard for the inauguration. For now, Chief Smith said she will have her officers working 12 hour shifts until needed.
Officers from Virginia and Maryland will also be assisting.
Smith said they are also planning on bringing in an extra 4,000 officers to the District for inauguration.
D.C. is also prepping to host Vice President Kamala Harris at Howard University on Tuesday night where she will hold her election watch party.
DC Police is working closely with Secret Service who will lead security for that event. Smith said there have been no identifiable threats to the District.