The United States security forces have announced an extensive operation to ensure safety during Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration on January 20. Authorities acknowledge the potential threat of "lone wolf" attacks. Matt McCool, the Secret Service special agent for Washington, stated in a press briefing on Monday that there is a "heightened threat environment" compared to Joe Biden's inauguration in 2021, which occurred amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are fully confident that our plan will secure both the public and officials," McCool affirmed. Classified as a special national security event, U.S. authorities have deployed an unprecedented security operation to ensure the smooth conduct of the ceremony.
The operation will involve 25,000 agents and National Guard members, along with over 30 miles of anti-climb fencing to secure the National Mall and the Capitol. During Monday's press conference, McCool emphasized that "all attendees will undergo security screenings," with designated checkpoints and flight restrictions around the capital.
McCool also mentioned that the event expects to host hundreds of thousands of people, including high-profile political figures. Simultaneously, DC Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed the full activation of the local police department, bolstered by 4,000 additional officers from across the country. Additionally, 7,800 National Guard members will be on standby for the inaugural events.
"We will not tolerate any form of violence. We want people to enjoy our city, but those who break the law will be arrested and held accountable," stated Smith.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted that security measures will extend beyond the ceremony, with visible patrols, barriers, and road closures throughout downtown Washington. "The impact of the inauguration will be most felt around the National Mall, the Capitol, and Union Station," Bowser explained.
Concerns About 'Lone Wolf' Attacks and Recent Incidents
One of the primary concerns, as noted by Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, is the likelihood of attacks by "lone wolves." Manger articulated that these individual actors represent "the greatest threat" to the inauguration.
"The threat of a lone wolf remains our top concern and justifies our heightened state of alert," he indicated.
Recent incidents at the Capitol have intensified these concerns: a person attempted to enter the lying-in-state of former President Jimmy Carter with knives, while another was apprehended for trying to set a vehicle on fire near Congress. These events, coupled with an assassination attempt on Trump during his campaign and a New Year’s mass attack in New Orleans, have reinforced the necessity for extreme measures.
Interagency Coordination and Technological Security
David Sundberg, assistant director of the FBI in Washington, confirmed that the operation involves two main command posts—one at the local FBI office and another at its headquarters.
"We are not currently tracking any specific or credible threats to the inauguration ceremony or the Capitol complex, but we urge the public to remain vigilant," Sundberg noted. The transportation system will also be under surveillance.
According to Randy Clarke, Metro's general manager, over 900 security personnel will oversee public transportation, which will open at 4 a.m. on inauguration day to accommodate the influx of visitors.
The Republican will take office at noon next Monday on the Capitol steps, surrounded by authorities and in front of thousands of attendees gathered on the National Mall.
FAQs on Security Measures for Trump's Inauguration
What are "lone wolf" threats?
"Lone wolf" threats refer to individuals who act independently to carry out attacks, often motivated by personal ideologies or grievances, and pose a significant security risk.
How many security personnel are involved in the inauguration operation?
The operation includes 25,000 agents and National Guard members, in addition to an extensive network of local police and other security personnel.
What areas in Washington will be most affected by the security measures?
Security measures will primarily impact areas around the National Mall, the Capitol, and Union Station, with road closures and heightened security presence.