The US White House Press Secretary, Kayleigh McEnany has confirmed that the National Guard is being deployed to the US Capitol building in Washington after protestors stormed the building.
Earlier protesters breached barricades amid violent clashes between President Donald Trump’s supporters and Washington DC police.
Protesters that broke down the metal barriers were met by riot police.
It has been noted that one of the protesters has been shot and is in critical condition.
Both chambers of Congress abruptly recessed as they were debating the Electoral College vote that gave Joe Biden the presidency.
At President @realDonaldTrump’s direction, the National Guard is on the way along with other federal protective services.
We reiterate President Trump’s call against violence and to remain peaceful.
— Kayleigh McEnany (@PressSec) January 6, 2021
The clashes came after President Trump addressed his supporters at Capitol Hill. He reiterated his claims of voter fraud on the US election in November, and Georgia runoff election on Wednesday.
“We will not let them silence your voices,” Mr Trump told the protesters, who had lined up before sunrise to get a prime position to hear the president.
Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021
The US capitol has since been placed on lockdown, and a curfew has been announced for Washington D.C. for 6pm EST.
