The Arlington County Board today called on residents to stay safe and refrain from counter-protesting in Washington D.C. on January 6, when far-right extremist groups are expected to gather in large numbers to protest what they falsely claim to be widespread voter fraud in the November 3, 2020, presidential election. Dozens of courts across the nation, and election officials in every state, have found those claims to be baseless.
Those planning to protest include groups whose stated aim is to disrupt the certification of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris as the winners of the election.
“This Board upholds free speech and the right for all to peacefully demonstrate,” Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey said. “We understand the desire to show support for our election processes, for democracy and the constitution. But my colleagues and I have a responsibility to our constituents to keep them safe. With far-right extremist groups broadcasting their desire to engage in violent acts to upend the results of the presidential election, we ask everyone to stay home on January 6 so the District of Columbia can better manage the situation. Mayor Bowser has asked that people not come to the city to counter-protest, to avoid inflaming an already dangerous situation. We support her request.”