U.S. cities are on high alert after a deadly attack in New Orleans and an explosion outside a Trump hotel in Las Vegas raised concerns of more violence during a month packed with major public events.
The Las Vegas incident, involving the destruction of a Cybertruck by an Army special soldier, has amplified fears of targeted attacks against President Donald Trump and his ally, Elon Musk.
Trump remains under heavy Secret Service protection following two assassination attempts last summer, while questions linger about whether Musk’s private security has been reinforced.
Washington Braces for High-Profile Events Amid Security Concerns
Authorities in Washington, D.C., have heightened security ahead of pivotal events in January, including the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter on Jan. 9 and President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20.
Police confirmed an increased presence throughout the city, warning residents to expect visible safety measures. Trump’s victory rally at Capital One Arena on Jan. 19 has already prompted vehicle barriers and heightened vigilance, measures not typically seen at Washington Wizards basketball games hosted there.
Adding to the tension, Trump’s Nov. 5 presidential election win is set to be certified by Congress on Jan. 6—marking the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot by his supporters in 2021. For the first time, this certification ceremony has been classified as a National Special Security Event, placing the U.S. Secret Service at the helm.
Agency spokesperson Matthew Young said, “We are continuously assessing the threat landscape and will adjust plans as necessary.”
Golden Globes and Super Bowl Highlight Nationwide Concerns
The threat of violence looms over other marquee events, including the 81st Golden Globes on Jan. 7 in Los Angeles, which will kick off Hollywood’s awards season.
Meanwhile, the Super Bowl is set for February in New Orleans, a city still reeling from the New Year’s terror attack.
Law enforcement nationwide is ramping up preparations to safeguard these high-profile gatherings, underscoring the nation’s heightened state of vigilance as 2025 begins.
