AP
The United States Capitol closed Wednesday with lawmakers inside as violent clashes broke out between supporters of President Donald Trump and the police.
An announcement was aired inside the Capitol as legislators met and were expected to vote to affirm Joe Biden’s victory. Due to an “external security threat,” no one was allowed to enter or exit the Capitol complex, according to the recording.
Both cameras abruptly entered a recess.
The skirmishes occurred outside, in the same place where President-elect Biden will take office in just two weeks.
Protesters tore down metal barricades at the foot from the steps of the Capitol and were greeted by officers in riot gear. Some attempted to push the officers holding shields and the officers could be seen firing pepper spray into the crowd to keep them away. Some in the crowd yelled “traitors” as officers tried to stop them.
A suspicious package was also reported in the area, Capitol Police said.
The skirmishes came shortly after Trump addressed thousands of his supporters, irritating the crowd with his baseless claims of voter fraud at a rally near the White House on Wednesday before the vote for the Congress.
“We will not allow you to silence your voices,” Trump told the protesters, who had lined up before dawn to gain a prime position to listen to the president.