Large security presence outnumbers pro-Trump demonstrators at Minnesota Capitol

Roads leading to the Minnesota State Capitol were blocked Saturday as state troopers in neon yellow vests stood guard in anticipation of protests over the weekend.

The heightened security at the statehouse was met with only a handful of pro-Trump demonstrators — a far cry from the estimated 150 people who were expected to attend the rally billed as "Freedom Fest." Law enforcement easily outnumbered the protesters and media who were there.

Minnesota Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington made it clear on Friday the state would be prepared for any attacks similar to the siege on the U.S. Capitol two weeks ago.

"We will keep the peace on the days leading up to the Inauguration in DC, and we are prepared to keep the peace as long as it takes," he said in a news conference.

Earlier this week, Harrington urged people to stay away from the State Capitol unless it was absolutely necessary.