Fence Goes Up In DC
The upcoming State of the Union address, delivered by President Joe Biden, is causing heightened security concerns as the Capitol prepares for the event.
According to three sources familiar with the decision, a security fence will surround the Capitol during the speech on March 7. This decision was approved by the Capitol Police Board on Friday, nearly one year after a similar fence was erected for last year’s State of the Union. With the event designated as a National Special Security Event, the highest level of security is necessary to ensure the safety of attendees and the surrounding area.
The decision to install the security fence comes as no surprise, as the Capitol has been on high alert since the January 6th insurrection. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of five people, exposed vulnerabilities in the Capitol’s security and prompted a review of safety measures. The Capitol Police Board, responsible for overseeing the security of the Capitol complex, is taking no chances in the face of potential threats. The presence of a security fence is just one aspect of the comprehensive security plan being implemented for the State of the Union.
U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi has emphasized the importance of a strong security presence for the State of the Union. He stated that people should expect to see a heavy law enforcement presence, including a combination of technology, uniformed officers, and plainclothes officers. This is in addition to support teams from various federal and city agencies who will be working together to ensure the safety of the event. Guglielmi also noted that the Secret Service is working closely with Capitol Police, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI, and FEMA, among others.
Despite the extensive security preparations being made, there is no indication of a specific threat to the State of the Union. However, the event’s high profile and potential for large-scale protests make it a prime target for those seeking to cause disruption or harm.
In light of this, the House sergeant-at-arms held a briefing earlier this week with representatives from the Pentagon, White House, and other agencies to discuss security plans. This source emphasized the collaborative effort between agencies and stakeholders to ensure the safety of the Capitol and those in attendance.
While some may view the installation of a security fence as an inconvenience, it is a necessary precaution to protect against potential threats. The National Special Security Event status carries with it a heightened level of security due to the significant size, scope, and threat profile of the event. The decision to erect a fence is just one of many security measures being implemented for the State of the Union, and it is a proactive step in ensuring the safety of all participants.
The security fence will not be the only measure in place to protect the Capitol during the State of the Union. The Capitol Police have also increased their presence and have implemented stricter security protocols, such as requiring all visitors to Capitol Hill to wear visible identification and screening all individuals entering the Capitol building. These measures were put in place after the January 6th attack, and they will continue during the State of the Union and beyond to prevent any potential threats to the Capitol.
Despite the heightened security concerns, the State of the Union will go on as planned. President Biden will address the nation and outline his administration’s plans and priorities for the coming year. The security measures in place are intended to allow the President and other attendees to focus on the important message of the address without fear or distraction.
While the security fence may be seen as a symbol of the current state of affairs in the U.S., it is a reminder of the importance of protecting our institutions and those who serve them.