US elections: Prepare for possible violence

People are very worried about riots during the US election. As a result, heightened security measures are in place in Washington and across the country.

Felix Leitmeier/t-online

On January 6, 2021, angry Donald Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in Washington, killing five people and injuring hundreds. The FBI called what happened “domestic terrorism.”

Many Americans have not forgotten these images. They now fear more unrest surrounding the U.S. election. According to a survey by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and Human Rights, a civil rights organization, 73% of Americans are concerned about political violence.

In order to prevent the situation from escalating in this election, the United States has currently increased security precautions to an unprecedented level. There are metal detectors at all political events, armed guards at polling stations, concrete barricades and police snipers. There are even unmanned reconnaissance drones flying in the sky in many places.

Capitol Police increase

The transition period from the election to the swearing-in on January 20 is considered particularly critical. The security services in Washington were specially prepared for this. On January 6, 2021, Capitol Police were occupied by rabid Trump supporters, and the number of police officers was increased by 300 to 2,100.

The same high security measures as for the swearing-in ceremony on January 20 are planned to be in place on January 6, 2025, when the election results are to be certified by Congress.

The reappearance of violent militia members during and after the elections cannot be ruled out. But: Right-wing extremist militias active in the United States participated in the storming of the Capitol four years ago but have had little to show for themselves recently. Hundreds of militia members, including leaders, were tried and some were sentenced to lengthy prison terms. That gives violence researchers some reassurance: They believe it has a deterrent effect.

Also protecting Harris’ apartment and Trump party venue

Authorities didn't want to take any chances: The Secret Service used metal barriers to protect the White House, the Capitol, the Treasury Department and the U.S. Naval Institute, the Washington Post reported. They should be 2.5 meters high.

The Secret Service also fenced off Vice President Kamala Harris' official residence. Police also announced street closures in preparation for Harris' election party at Howard University in Washington.

Trump is also under special protection: Security measures have been put in place around one of his events near Mar-a-Lago, the Washington Post reported. The former US president wants to throw his campaign party there.

Polling stations with armed security forces

In many states, security measures have been significantly increased to protect poll workers, especially at polling places. If you suffer a gunshot wound, a first aid kit will be provided to you. Install panic buttons, or panic buttons, so that police can be alerted in the event of danger.

Some schools and churches that have been polling stations decided against it this year. The security risks are simply too high. Other polling stations, however, are getting ready: Some have concrete barriers, armed security forces and even patrols. Public facilities are protected by the authorities.

Stores protect themselves

Meanwhile, Washington businesses and property owners are preparing for the worst. They hired private security, protected windows and entrances, and developed contingency plans, The Washington Post reported. Commercial buildings near the White House have been cordoned off. Goal: Prevent looting or rioting.

District officials said there was no need to cover the windows, the newspaper reported. Individuals, on the other hand, have different views, with a spokesman for a Washington-based architectural association explaining: “The entire city is worried.” But: “We don't expect unlimited chaos like we did four years ago.”