Security Measures in D.C. Ramp Up Ahead of Inauguration Day

Washington, D.C., is on full alert and lockdown ahead of next week’s inauguration ceremony. More than 20,000 National Guard troops have so far been deployed to the city. That’s more troops in our nation’s Capitol than in all Iraq and Afghanistan combined times four. Earlier this week, the Department of Homeland Security also expedited their massive inaugural security operation. The main objective is to cut off complete access to the White House and the Capitol grounds. This includes using commuter checkpoints at major entrances to the city and completely closing off other streets. It’s reportedly led to traffic jams. Nonscalable walls have been erected around every major government building and businesses have been boarded up. Airlines and the Transportation Security Administration are also working with D.C. officials. They’re increasing passenger screenings and some airlines have issued a total ban on checked guns and alcohol for flights headed to the D.C. area. The National Park Service has also temporarily suspended all tours of the Washington Monument and are further expected to close down the entire National Mall.