President Donald Trump issued a statement on Wednesday and called for ‘no violence’ amid reports his supporters could interrupt President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration.
“In light of reports of more demonstrations, I urge that there must be NO violence, NO lawbreaking and NO vandalism of any kind,” the statement reads.
It adds: “That is not what I stand for, and it is not what America stands for. I call on ALL Americans to help ease tensions and calm tempers. Thank You.”
Trump’s statement came while the House of Representatives debated whether to impeach him for the second time.
The White House shared the statement to its press list after Facebook, Instagram and Twitter froze Trump’s accounts.
Spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany also shared the statement on Twitter and the Trump campaign shared it with followers.
Security has increased on Capitol Hill ahead Biden’s inauguration. A tall anti-climbing fence has also been placed around the complex and extended to the National Mall, where Biden’s supporters can watch him take the oath of office.
The FBI has warned of armed protests being planned in all 50 state capitals, including three different plots to attack the US Capitol.
A memo obtained by ABC News reads: “The FBI received information about an identified armed group intending to travel to Washington, DC on 16 January. They have warned that if Congress attempts to remove POTUS via the 25th Amendment, a huge uprising will occur.”
During the inauguration, there will be no public access to the Capitol.
On Tuesday night, about 3,000 National Guard members were deployed in the Capitol grounds, with weapons and water bottles on hand. Officials are increasing the number to 20,000 ahead of January 20th.
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Replaced!