AUGUSTA- Jan. 12, officials from the Maine Department of Public Safety released a statement stating they were beefing up security ahead of potential protests at the State House starting on Sunday.
However on Sunday, despite the rumors and reports of protesters, no one has showed up.
During the day Sunday, numerous police officers were stationed around the perimeter of the State House, the Cross Building and outside the Blaine House.
“It was kind of intimidating rolling up though and seeing black vans everywhere and Capitol Police and stuff. Not just police, but cars labeled Capitol Police, that was kind of first type of thing I’ve seen before. That was kind of interesting,” said a Lincoln County resident named Gage.
In talking with some people who did stroll through the capitol grounds Sunday, I found out they were expecting a large group of people as well and in the event protesters of the President-elect Biden’s inauguration did show up, they were expecting hostility.
“I feel like if someone did come herewith opposing views and openly said them, they could have a very strong threat to their safety,” said a Whitefield resident named Sam.
Because of reports of potential events lasting through Inauguration Day, capitol and state police on scene have confirmed they will remain on high alert until further notice.
