10,000 National Guard Troops Due in D.C. Saturday, Washington Monument Closed
WASHINGTON – The National Guard said Monday it will increase troops in DC to at least 10,000 by Saturday to boost security ahead of the upcoming inauguration, and an additional 5,0000 could be requested from other states.
The announcement came amid growing signs Washington, D.C. is hunkering down ahead to the transition of power to the incoming Biden administration.
Due to the ongoing threat to public safety in the wake of last week’s attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump, the Washington Monument will be closed from today through Jan. 24.
The closure will ensure the tourist attraction overlooking the Washington Mall will be closed during the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden.
“Groups involved in the Jan. 6, 2021 riots at the U.S. Capitol continue to threaten to disrupt the 59th presidential inauguration on Jan. 20, 2021,” the park service said in a written statement. “This includes the setup and execution of inaugural events, which occur in several park areas.”
The agency advised the public that it could begin announcing the closure of other infrastructure, including roads, parking areas and public facilities “if conditions warrant.”
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