As the anniversary of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot approaches, Washington, D.C. remains on high alert. Four years ago, supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol, attempting to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden’s presidential victory. Now, as Congress prepares to certify Trump’s 2024 election victory, the Capitol is more heavily secured than ever before, underscoring the lasting impact of that day.
On January 20, Trump will take the oath of office as the 47th president of the United States. The upcoming inauguration will unfold under the shadow of the Capitol attack, which left the nation grappling with the consequences of an assault on democracy. During the attack, Trump supporters heeded Trump’s call to march on the Capitol and ultimately breached the building, clashed violently with police, and chased lawmakers from their duty to certify the election results. Millions of dollars in damage, injuries to over 140 officers, and the disruption of one of the most important processes in American democracy marked January 6 as a day of profound consequence.
Unprecedented Security Measures
Since the January 6th attack, the Capitol has been fortified with layers of security, but this year’s anniversary sees a level of preparedness unlike any before. Workers have been installing additional fencing and barriers, reinforcing the already heightened security measures. Special security precautions have been enacted, particularly around the Lower West Tunnel — the very location where some of the worst violence occurred during the January 6th riot.
In September, the federal government officially declared the Electoral College certification a National Special Security Event, ramping up security for this critical event. As the weather grows colder and a snowstorm approaches Washington, law enforcement agencies have been working overtime to ensure that the Capitol is fully protected. The increased security will remain in place throughout the lead-up to Trump's inauguration on January 20, ensuring that similar violence does not occur during the transfer of power.
