Information given by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security warns of increased talk among extremists, including members of the Three Percenters extremist group, examining possible plots against the Capitol on March 4, according to sources familiar with the matter, its the date that conspiracy theorists have focused on.
The security is tightened but law enforcement says it is not clear the discussion has moved beyond talk among members. One source notes that it is mostly online talk and not certainly a clue anyone is coming to Washington to act on the discussion.
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In a memo on Monday obtained by CNN, Acting House Sergeant at Arms Timothy Blodgett told members that while they are enhancing security out of precaution, “at this time the USCP has no indication that groups will travel to Washington DC to protest or commit acts of violence.”
Blodgett wrote that more officers will be posted throughout the capitol grounds. He also said that the importance “has reportedly declined amongst various groups in recent days.”
On Monday, US Capitol Police tweeted that it is well “aware of concerning information and intelligence about March 4” and has taken steps to improve security.
“The Department is aware of concerning information and intelligence pertaining to March 4th and continues to work with all of our law enforcement partners. Based on the intelligence that we have, the Department has taken immediate steps to enhance our security posture and staffing for a number of days, including March 4. The Department has communicated our enhanced posture as well as the available intelligence for the entire workforce,” Capitol Police said in the tweet.
QAnon conspiracy theorists think former President Donald Trump will be inaugurated on March 4, returning him to the presidency.
Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat, told CNN that he and his colleagues take the threat “very seriously.” in response to the FBI and DHS warning.
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