WSP said it's the largest response at the Capitol in the state's history and it serves two purposes, for protection but also to send a message about democracy.
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington Governor Jay Inslee has activated the Washington State National Guard to be in Olympia on Monday when state legislators return to the Capitol Campus for the 2021 legislative session. The announcement comes after a group of pro-Trump supporters stormed the U. S. Capitol and the governor’s mansion in Olympia on Wednesday.
Washington National Guard called to protect Olympia Capitol Campus for start of legislative session Monday
Gov. Jay Inslee has authorized up to 750 members of the National Guard to be in Olympia and a large number of state troopers will also be on hand. Author: KING 5 Staff Updated: 11:15 PM PST January 8, 2021
OLYMPIA, Wash. Gov. Jay Inslee has activated the Washington State National Guard to help with security at the Capitol Campus in Olympia when the 2021 legislative session begins Monday.
Inslee has authorized up to 750 members of the Guard to be in Olympia in coordination with the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and local law enforcement. These measures are in addition to the regular Capitol Campus security.
Gov. Inslee activates National Guard to be in Olympia at start of 2021 session January 8, 2021 at 4:54 pm
Trump supporters taunt counter-protesters during political clashes on Dec. 12, 2020 in Olympia, Washington. Far-right and far-left groups squared off near the Washington State Capitol following violent clashes over the previous weekend. (Photo by David Ryder/Getty Images)
As the Legislature is set to convene for the 2021 session Monday, Gov. Jay Inslee announced that he has activated the Washington State National Guard to be in Olympia in coordination with the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and local law enforcement.
“I am authorizing up to 750 members of the Guard and a large number of Washington State Patrol troopers will be on hand, in addition to the regular Capitol Campus security contingent,” Inslee said in a statement.