Law enforcement in the nation’s capital are preparing for potential unrest and increasing security measures this summer in anticipation of several high-profile and politically charged events that could trigger protests. From late June, when the Supreme Court is expected to release several important rulings, including on former President Donald Trump’s immunity claim, to July, when DC will host the NATO summit and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, law enforcement agencies are gearing up for a busy period.
The Supreme Court has already implemented bike rack fencing in preparation for the upcoming decisions, with Capitol Police working alongside Supreme Court Police to ensure security. US Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger expressed confidence in the department’s readiness for the upcoming events, stating, “With the political conventions, visits from high profile leaders, and the many issues being debated in Congress, this will be a very busy summer.”
A Metropolitan Police Department official in DC warned of potentially large demonstrations between the NATO summit from July 9 to 11 and Netanyahu’s visit two weeks later, suggesting that this could be the largest protest since the US Capitol attack on January 6, 2021. The department is bracing for potential mass arrests as a result.
Security concerns are expected to remain elevated through key dates in November and January, such as the presidential election, the congressional certification of election results, and the presidential inauguration. Officials are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of these events.
Capitol Police are planning to deploy over 300 officers to provide security at both the Republican National Convention from July 15 to 18 and the Democratic National Convention from August 19 to 22, marking the largest deployment of officers from the department to an event outside of DC. Additionally, various law enforcement agencies are coordinating efforts to track intelligence on potential threats and enhance security in the nation’s capital over the next few weeks.
The Homeland Security Secretary has designated the NATO summit as a National Special Security Event, indicating the seriousness of the security concerns surrounding the event. This designation allows the Secret Service to take the lead on operational security planning with support from federal agencies like the FBI and FEMA.
DC police are increasing staffing ahead of the NATO summit in early July, with officers expected to work 12-hour shifts during the event. The FBI is leading the counterterrorism efforts, sharing intelligence and working to ensure the safety of the summit, while the Secret Service will provide security for foreign diplomats and leaders attending the event.
Concerns regarding protests during Netanyahu’s visit are also being addressed, with Capitol Police preparing weekly intelligence updates and planning to increase officer deployments for his address to a joint session of Congress on July 24. Pro-Palestinian protests have been particularly contentious in recent months, following the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
