N.J. activates National Guard troops in preparation for possible pro-Trump march in Trenton
A convoy of National Guard vehicles rolled into Trenton on Saturday evening as the state braces for a possible pro-Trump march on Sunday. All was quiet in the capital city as of 7:30 p.m.
About 100 National Guard troops will act as security around the State House in Trenton.
Some city streets around the State House and Trenton City Hall are being blocked off as a precaution and will remain closed through Jan. 20.
Starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday, the city closed off Stockton Street at East State Street, Front Street, and the City Hall Parking Lot. East State Street is also closed at Barry Hogan Way.
The New Jersey State Police will close off West State Street from Calhoun Street to Willow Street starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
Earlier this week, flyers circulated online calling for people to march in Washington D.C. and at state capitol buildings across the country at noon on Jan. 17. “Come armed at your personal discretion,” one flyer read.
Gov. Phil Murphy urged people to stay home on Sunday and discouraged counter-protesters from showing up in Trenton.
On Friday, Patrick Callahan, head of state police, said there is no specific or credible threat to the state capital.
Earlier in the week, the FBI warned of possible armed protests at all 50 state capitals and in Washington, D.C., starting Sunday through the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden on Jan. 20.
Krystal Knapp is the founding editor of Planet Princeton. Follow her on Twitter @krystalknapp. She can be reached via email at editor AT planetprinceton.com. Send all letters to the editor and press releases to that email address.