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Election 2024: DC braces for potential unrest
Election Day is almost here. Businesses across the District are on high alert as there are concerns about protests and political violence. FOX 5's Sierra Fox gives us a glimpse of what it looks like downtown.
WASHINGTON - D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Police Chief Pamela Smith held a security briefing Monday to outline the District's preparations for Election Day.
With heightened awareness across the city, fencing and wooden boards are now in place around key federal sites, including the Capitol, the White House complex, and the Treasury Department. The city has been planning for this period for months, according to Bowser, and officials are coordinating closely with federal agencies to ensure safety.
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DC mayor, police chief finalizing preparations for election
With heightened awareness across the city, fencing and wooden boards are now in place around key federal sites, including the Capitol, the White House complex, and the Treasury Department. FOX 5's David Kaplan has the story.
In recent days, fortifications have noticeably increased, with additional wood panels going up on office buildings around Downtown D.C., including fencing around high-profile locations like the Naval Observatory, home to the Vice President.
DC businesses board up, boost security ahead of Election Day
With election day less than a week away, for some businesses, security preparations are already well underway.
Mayor Bowser and Chief Smith assured residents that while there are currently no specific threats, a strong security posture will remain in effect.
"MPD is here to support you and to protect your right to peacefully assemble," Smith said. "Let me be clear, there will be no tolerance for violence in the city—no destruction or unlawful behavior. We will hold offenders accountable and will not tolerate threats to public safety."
Chief Smith emphasized the importance of community cooperation, encouraging residents to report anything unusual, saying, "We need the community’s help to be an extra set of eyes and ears. If you see something, say something."
To support this heightened security, D.C. has activated two additional command centers alongside its 24/7 Real Time Crime Center. One center is dedicated to D.C. police and regional agencies, while the other is part of D.C.’s Homeland Security team.
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Security increases as DC prepares for Election Day
This past week, FOX 5 has told you about added security measures across the District as we approach Election Day. This Sunday, crews added fences surrounding the Naval Observatory -- a symbol of safety, and uncertainty, as America votes. Our David Kaplan reports from the Observatory in Northwest tonight.
FOX 5 asked about Mayor Bowser’s statement last week that businesses would not need to board up.
With more businesses reinforcing their storefronts, Bowser responded by noting the city's ability to adapt as needed. She acknowledged that the post-election period may involve further measures, especially around major events such as the January 6th certification and Inauguration Day.