Members of the National Guard prepare to distribute weapons outside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 14, 2021 in Washington, D.C. Security has been increased throughout Washington following the breach of the U.S. Capitol last Wednesday, and leading up to the Presidential Inauguration. (Photo by Stefani Reynolds/Getty Images)
Gov. John Bel Edwards is traveling to Washington, D.C. Tuesday to attend the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris this week, representing the State of Louisiana at the ceremonial transition of power.
“Less than two weeks ago, our United States Capitol was besieged by a riotous mob determined to prevent Congress from performing its constitutional duty to count electoral college votes certified by the states,” Edwards said in a press release. “Their insurrectionist actions were patently un-American and mark one of the most shameful days in our country’s history.
“But after great darkness comes the light,” the governor added. “Congress did count and certify the electoral college votes, and on Wednesday, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will become our nation’s president and vice president. I congratulate them again on their victory, and I am proud to represent the people of Louisiana at this historic inauguration. This ceremony will mark a chance for a fresh start, new energy and bold leadership to overcome the many significant challenges facing our country.”
Following the Jan. 6 pro-Trump siege of the U.S. Capitol, the FBI and other federal authorities have issued intelligence warnings of potential attacks throughout the country on Inauguration Day, prompting the reinforcement of security measures in Washington, D.C. and in many state capitals. Edwards deployed 174 National Guardsmen to Washington, D.C. to help bolster security there, and the Louisiana State Police is leading a multi-agency team to secure the capitol building in Baton Rouge, which saw peaceful protests over the weekend and will be closed on Wednesday.
“In Louisiana, we have been in touch with federal, state and local officials about warnings of planned protests in Louisiana and, while so far no violence or lawlessness has occurred at protests in Louisiana, we are prepared and will respond as necessary,” the governor said.
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