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Sacramento Is Quiet, For Now
In anticipation of potential violence during the days leading up to President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, Gov. Gavin Newsom activated the National Guard in Sacramento last week.
But according to Scott Rodd, who covers state government for CapRadio, the area had not seen much activity as of Sunday afternoon. Reporting from downtown Sacramento, Rodd told KPCC that it has been “peaceful [and] quiet” so far.
“The protests that were anticipated haven't materialized,” Rodd said. “I just see one person standing by the fence with an American flag and that's about it.”
The absence of protesters was noted in other parts of the country as well, where anticipated rallies didn’t happen or were smaller than officials believed they might be.
Amplified security is in place in many states and Washington D.C. after the FBI issued a warning about possible armed uprisings by far-right extremists.
Despite the lack of activity in Sacramento, many downtown businesses have boarded up their storefronts, windows and doors.
Rodd noted that barricades have been erected around California’s Capitol building, and that police are out on bikes. Some have armored protection as well as riot gear.
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The National Guard was also present.
“They're definitely prepared,” said Rodd, “even if things stay quiet.”
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