US: Authorities likely to maintain heightened security in Washington, DC, after restoring order following violent unrest Jan. 6 /update 4

Event

Authorities in Washington, DC are likely to maintain heightened security measures, especially around the grounds of the Capitol, following violent protests Jan. 6. The violence broke out when protesters breached security cordons and entered the Capitol building during Congress' count of the electoral college votes for the nation's Nov. 3, 2020 presidential election. Authorities have since secured the Capitol building and Congress reconvened.

In response to the unrest, Mayor Mariel Bowser has imposed an 1800-0600 curfew in the city Jan. 6-7, and extended the Public Emergency order through Jan. 21. The mayor may reimpose or extend the curfew and other movement restrictions in response to a resumption of violent protests. During the hours of the curfew, no person other than essential workers and those designated by the office of the mayor will be allowed on the streets.

Officials have confirmed that one protester died after being shot on the Capitol grounds after protesters forcibly entered the building. Police also confirmed that three other people died around the Capitol grounds due to unspecified medical emergencies. As of late Jan. 6, police arrested at least 52 people, and recovered two pipe bombs, including one at the Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters.

Additional protests and counterprotests are possible over the coming days. Any large gatherings and the associated heightened security are likely to cause localized business and traffic disruptions in Washington, DC. Officials may enforce road closures and other movement restrictions to facilitate the protests. Additional clashes or other security disturbances, such as on Jan. 6, are possible near any protests that materialize.

Context

Demonstrations demanding transparency in the election process were held at State Capitols in several cities Jan. 6 and additional demonstrations are likely ahead of and during the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden Jan. 20. In Washington, DC, supporters of President Donald J. Trump, including members of the Proud Boys, Women for America First, and the Million Maga March movement, had been protesting in Washington, DC, since late Jan. 5 before the demonstrations turned violent. Supporters of President Trump continue to denounce perceived election integrity issues, which may continue to manifest in protests in Washington, DC, and elsewhere over the coming days and weeks, despite the heightened security measures.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Leave the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Heed the instructions of authorities. Allow additional time to reach destinations in central Washington, DC over the coming days.