Nearly 8,000 National Guard troops have been requested by the U.S. Secret Service to support the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20, the Pentagon confirmed.
Sabrina Singh, deputy spokesperson for the Defense Department, said the request for 7,800 troops is expected to be approved soon. This is in addition to the 500 National Guard members already assisting with security during the certification of electoral votes on Monday.
Heightened Security Measures in Place
Tall black fences surround the U.S. Capitol, a reminder of the chaos four years ago when rioters stormed the building. However, officials anticipate no protests or violence as Donald Trump prepares to return to office. The 2025 inauguration has been designated a “national special security event,” enabling federal, state, and local agencies to coordinate extensive resources for safety.
Historic Role of National Guard
The National Guard has a long history of supporting presidential inaugurations, dating back to George Washington. After the 2020 election, more than 25,000 Guard troops secured Washington following the Capitol riots, with no incidents during the 2021 inauguration. This year, over two dozen states have pledged to send troops if needed, ensuring robust security in both Washington, D.C., and state capitals nationwide.
A Promise of Orderly Transition
In an opinion piece, President Joe Biden reflected on the 2021 Capitol attack, praising democracy’s resilience. He assured Americans that this year’s inauguration will mark a peaceful transition of power, contrasting it with the turmoil of the past. Biden emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles as Trump begins his second term.
