Trump Inauguration Security: Law Enforcement Gears Up for Heightened Threats – Insights from Washington Examiner

As President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration approaches, Washington, D.C. is ramping up preparations for a secure ceremony. This follows two significant events in the area earlier this month.

Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with various law enforcement officials, shared important updates on security measures. The inauguration is classified as a National Special Security Event. This means the Secret Service is in charge, marking the third such event in D.C. this month after the election certification and former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral.

Matt McCool, the special agent leading the Secret Service in D.C., mentioned that security will be tighter than during the last inauguration. All attendees will go through thorough security screenings. Additional safety measures include road closures, temporary flight restrictions, fencing around the ceremony, and the use of drones.

David Sundberg from the FBI noted that while there aren’t any specific threats being tracked, precautions are still essential. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger highlighted that the biggest concern is the potential for lone actors to cause trouble. Recently, two such individuals tried to disrupt events at the Capitol, but police were able to intervene in time.

Mayor Bowser advised residents and visitors to use public transportation due to expected road closures. Key areas impacted will be around the National Mall, the Capitol, and Union Station. If you’re traveling through these areas, it’s best to plan ahead and allow extra time.

On Inauguration Day, the D.C. Metro will open at 4 a.m., one hour earlier than usual. However, five stations will be temporarily closed from Sunday night to Tuesday morning. These stations include McPherson Square, Federal Triangle, and Smithsonian, as well as Mt. Vernon Square and Archives.

The Metro will also have increased security on board and at stations. For more details on service changes, you can check the Metro’s official website.

The inauguration festivities will kick off on Sunday, with Trump laying a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery and holding a rally in downtown Washington. He will be sworn in on the West Front of the Capitol at noon on Monday.

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