US Capitol locked down as Trump supporters conflict with police; safety breach reported

The US Capitol locked down Wednesday with lawmakers inside as violent clashes broke out between supporters of President Donald Trump and police.The US Capitol Police announce safety breach inside as lawmakers meet to vote to certify President-elect Joe Biden’s victory. An announcement was performed contained in the Capitol as lawmakers have been assembly and anticipated to vote to affirm Biden’s victory.Due to an “external security threat,” nobody might enter or exit the Capitol complicated, the recording stated. Both chambers abruptly went into recess. The skirmishes occurred exterior within the very spot the place president-elect Biden will likely be inaugurated in simply two weeks. Protesters tore down metallic barricades on the backside of the Capitols steps and have been met by officers in riot gear.Some tried to push previous the officers who held shields and officers may very well be seen firing pepper spray into the gang to maintain them again. Some within the crowd have been shouting “traitors” as officers tried to maintain them again. A suspicious bundle was additionally reported within the space, Capitol Police stated. The skirmishes got here simply shortly after Trump addressed 1000’s of his supporters, riling up the gang along with his baseless claims of election fraud at a rally close to the White House on Wednesday forward of Congress’ vote. “We will not let them silence your voices,” Trump advised the protesters, who had lined up earlier than dawn to get a primary place to listen to the president.