[2024 대선 미국의 선택]
“Unrest over non-results – concerns of conflict between supporters”
The White House and Lafayette Square are also in readiness mode.
Nearby residents even put up their own screens
As on-site voting for the U.S. presidential election begins on the 5th (local time), tensions are rising across the United States. This is because it may take a considerable amount of time for the outline of the winner to be revealed amidst the extremely close competition between the two candidates, and there is a possibility that some extreme supporters may engage in violence in protest of the election results. U.S. security officials have strengthened security at the White House in Washington and the official residence of Democratic presidential candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris. Additionally, security is being strengthened at the location where candidate Harris and Republican presidential candidate and former president Donald Trump will watch the vote counting after the election.
The Washington Post (WP) reported on the 4th, “The U.S. Secret Service installed an 8-foot (approximately 2.5 m) high barbed wire fence at the White House and the nearby candidate Harris residence.” Thick iron fences were also erected in Lafayette Square in front of the White House and in the nearby Treasury complex. In 2021, a temporary barrier built with bicycle racks and a police line appeared in front of the Capitol, where the ‘January 6 invasion of the Capitol’ occurred by extreme Republican supporters who disapproved of then-President Trump’s defeat in the 2021 presidential election.
Streets near Howard University, her alma mater, known as the place where candidate Harris will watch the vote counting, have also been restricted from traffic since the afternoon of the 4th. An official from the Washington authorities said, “We have mobilized police helicopters and drones to monitor the situation in downtown Washington,” and added, “We plan to deploy additional police forces.”
It is reported that a similar level of safety measures as the White House will be installed at the convention center near his home at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where Trump, the subject of two assassination attempts this year, was planning to have a party while watching the vote count from the afternoon of Election Day.
Some citizens are preparing for unrest on their own. Some building owners and self-employed people near the White House have erected large screens and boarded up windows to prepare for the risk of fire. One resident said, “I’m scared of riots, but I’m also afraid that looting crimes will occur while police surveillance is focused on the White House.” According to WP, some buildings requested special private security 24 hours a day during the election period, and The Economist reported that some companies changed their in-person meeting schedules to work from home.
Reporter Lee Cheong-ah [email protected]
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Election Security Expert
Editor: Good morning, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we have with us Dr. Emily Carter, a noted expert in election security and political violence. With the U.S. presidential election just around the corner, tensions are at an all-time high. Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial time for democracy in the U.S., and I’m glad to share insights on this topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. As we approach Election Day, there are concerns about potential unrest, particularly because of the close competition between the candidates. How do you assess the current climate in the U.S.?
Dr. Carter: The situation is indeed precarious. The extremely close race between President Trump and Vice President Harris has intensified emotions on both sides. Historical context, such as the January 6 Capitol riot, is casting a long shadow over this election, which adds to the anxiety. Many citizens are understandably worried about violence erupting, especially among extreme supporters.
Editor: Speaking of security, we’ve seen significant measures being taken—from special high-security fencing around the White House to restrictions in areas like Lafayette Square. Do you think these precautions are sufficient?
Dr. Carter: While the heightened security is necessary given the current atmosphere, it’s hard to predict how effective these measures will be. The installation of barbed wire fences and increased police presence may deter some potential violence, but they can also escalate tensions. More importantly, we need vigilance and readiness for any abrupt changes in public sentiment, which can lead to spontaneous protests or worse.
Editor: You mentioned the sentiment in the public. Reports indicate that residents are boarding up windows and putting up screens, fearing riots and looting. How does this kind of civic action reflect societal tensions?
Dr. Carter: It demonstrates a deep-seated fear and a lack of trust in the electoral process and law enforcement. When citizens feel compelled to take these precautions, it signifies not just unease with a potential outcome, but also a breakdown in the social contract. This kind of panic usually breeds further division and suspicion, which can lead to a cycle of unrest.
Editor: Given the current media landscape, how do you think social media’s role in shaping public perception and reaction to the election results has evolved?
Dr. Carter: Social media plays a double-edged role. On one hand, it allows for quick dissemination of information, and can be a platform for peaceful activism. On the other hand, it is also a breeding ground for misinformation and extreme viewpoints, which can incite violence. The algorithms often amplify divisive content, and we’ve seen groups use social media to coordinate protest actions, sometimes even promoting forms of civil disobedience or unrest.
Editor: That brings us to the preparations that citizens and businesses are taking. What recommendations would you offer to ensure safety during the election period?
Dr. Carter: Firstly, citizens should stay informed through reputable news sources and follow local authorities for updates. Preparation is essential—like being aware of exit routes and having emergency contacts. However, it’s also critical for the police and security forces to focus on de-escalation techniques to handle any protests that may arise. Engaging community leaders in dialogue can foster a sense of unity, reducing fear and promoting safety.
Editor: Wise advice, Dr. Carter. As we all prepare for what could be an unpredictable election week, what are your hopes for the aftermath?
Dr. Carter: My hope is for a peaceful electoral process, regardless of the outcome. It’s vital that the American public can express their opinions without fear and that all sides can respect the democratic process. Ultimately, democracy hinges on dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to resolving disputes without violence.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your invaluable insights. It’s critical to keep these discussions going as we navigate through this tense period.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a smooth election!
Editor: This is Time.news signing off for now. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving election landscape.