DPS: Minnesota State Patrol to increase presence at State Capitol
Monday, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety reported the Minnesota State Patrol will increase its presence at the State Capitol to "respond to various threats and prevent unlawful entry into the building."
The move comes after last week’s violent siege of the U.S. Capitol by right-wing extremists, as well as reports from FBI warning of plans for armed protests at all 50 state capitals and in Washington in the days leading up to President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration.
FBI warns of plans for nationwide armed protests at all 50 state capitals next week
"We are aware of the national reports of potential insurrection and are tracking possible protest activity as we stand ready to guard the Capitol and protect state employees from harm," a DPS spokesperson said. "We will continue to enhance our response and change tactics as needed."
A fence that was put in place around the State Capitol earlier this summer remains in place.
In Wisconsin, Gov. Tony Evers mobilized the National Guard to assist in security at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison.