* People in charge of things can be so stupid sometimes. Fortunately, it appears to have ended well and no Illinois National Guard members were treated this shabbily…
I meant ASAP when I said it. Just made a number of calls and have been informed Capitol Police have apologized to the Guardsmen and they will be allowed back into the complex tonight. I’ll keep checking to make sure they are.
My office has been in touch with our Senators and our @IL_Natl_Guard leadership regarding this issue. I’ve been assured our soldiers are being appropriately housed but share Senator Duckworth’s anger on this matter. https://t.co/ZWDjpk7iAn
Big applause for Sen. Duckworth. She stepped up and took care of the Guard troops when no one else would or could. Not the GOP posers like Cotton and Cruz. Not the Capitol Police who never should have kicked them out in the first place. No one.
Over the years I have occasionally needed to interact with Senator Duckworth and her office going back to when she was a Representative. She and her office have always been easily accessible and responsive. Before reading about what’s going on in DC this morning I had just referred a vet to her office to get help resolving a VA issue because I’ve had good experiences with them in the past.
100 guard members out of 20,000 in DC? Not good for those members but no where near a super spreader. And given the strict masking going on in the guard I think they were safer there than at home.
“It would appear the Capitol Police need a top to bottom house cleaning.”
As important as that may be, what the Capitol Police needs is for people to pay attention to it. [Sarcasm font on] But, then again, as it was once “supervised” by Terry Gainer, perhaps it needs an exorcism. [Sarcasm font off]
I would bet the order did not come from the Capitol Police. I did 25 years in the Military, and this action does not surprise me how soldiers are treated.
The worst part was the statement from the National Guard spokesperson in Politico touting how agile they are and that their forces are ready to set up anywhere when ordered…just because they can move at a drop of a hat, doesn’t mean you have to order that.
No tents? Nothing? Not really confidence inspiring that our military can’t (or won’t?) provide some basic amenities within DC. I was stationed in DC while in the Army, Ft. McNair, Washington Navy Yard, 8th and I Marine Barracks are all close to the Capitol, i.e. walking distance. Boling Air Force Base, Ft. Myer, and the Pentagon itself are across the river, short drive away. All of these posts or bases have housing, or at a bare minimum open space to get some tents set up.
This was terrible for the troops’ well being and terrible for the image of the Capitol Police who were already under considerable public scrutiny for their apparent lack of prep and performance on the 6th. The Capitol Police are (like many other critical government agencies) supposed to be on the job and professional through thick or thin no matter who is in charge or what the party make-up of Congress is. They failed. Heads should definitely roll over this. If the Capitol Police were not informed or not involved with the planning/logistics/call-up of all these NG from across the country for the inauguration then Tammy, and the states, and the public deserve answers about this aspect, too.
A great thanks to the National Guard and Sen. Duckworth, who not only served and sacrificed but is a strong advocate.
Are we now going to be at a chronic risk for more insurrections and right wing domestic terrorism? We have to be at heightened alert, especially at the impeachment trial. We’re going to need law and order to protect us from “law and order” and “back the blue” fanatics.
A shocking lack of respect. Couldn’t agree more about the Capitol Police. Honestly, I’m stunned by everything about the leadership of that force. Watched the interview with the former Chief and was aghast. “Who could’ve known this could happen?” Well, anyone paying attention. And this incident just proves the leadership cancer has metastasized way beyond the top leader.
The investigation of their failures now has another line of questioning.
Also, is there any way each of our Guardspeople in DC can receive a COVID-19 vaccine before returning home? It’s the least our Nation can do to thank them for their service.
“Politico says at least 100 guard members have tested positive in their service at the capitol.”
I am assuming they are referring to the national capitol not the state capitols.
As JSS said there are plenty of close military places the Guard could have gone to in shifts. At least get these people mats to lie on instead of concrete or marble. Cap Police keep making poor choices with no fore thought. Nice work by Duckworth.
=== Gov. Jay Inslee announced today that there will be long-term additional security measures in place at the state Capitol in Olympia, even as the Washington National Guard begins to drawdown its presence that followed increased threats leading up to the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration. The continued actions will include increased Washington State Patrol presence and the restricted area on West Campus. People will be able to exercise their free speech outside the fence in non-restricted areas.
“I am pleased that the Washington National Guard in support of the Washington State Patrol successfully protected the Capitol Campus from potential civil unrest,” Inslee said. “While this current mission will be demobilized over the weekend, we are taking steps to ensure the long-term safety and security of the people who work doing the people’s business in Olympia.===
Now you know.
To the post,
So much that has transpired in DC, it’s important that Illinois’ senator takes a very keen interests in our guard troops and how they are treated, I’m proud of those serving, thank them, and to Sen. Duckworth and her being a voice to them during these times.
Officially a super spreader event. Over 200 have tested positive. Glad we could spend billions on billions out of the trillions passed in the CARES act on corporate bailouts and special interests but can’t find the money to house the guard. Way to go….
- Draznnl - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:01 am:
Big applause for Sen. Duckworth. She stepped up and took care of the Guard troops when no one else would or could. Not the GOP posers like Cotton and Cruz. Not the Capitol Police who never should have kicked them out in the first place. No one.
- Flyin' Elvis'-Utah Chapter - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:18 am:
It would appear the Capitol Police need a top to bottom house cleaning. Not sure I would keep the clerical staff at this point.
- Oswego Willy - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:28 am:
Thank you, Senator Duckworth.
- essentially working - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:39 am:
What are the odds this is a “super spreader” event?
- Flyin' Elvis'-Utah Chapter - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:44 am:
“odds this is a super spreader event?”
Bout the same as January 6th, the incident that required such precautions.
- Oswego Willy - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:52 am:
=== What are the odds this is a “super spreader” event?===
You can thank the insurrectionists for the possibility.
- Moderate Mom - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:03 am:
Over the years I have occasionally needed to interact with Senator Duckworth and her office going back to when she was a Representative. She and her office have always been easily accessible and responsive. Before reading about what’s going on in DC this morning I had just referred a vet to her office to get help resolving a VA issue because I’ve had good experiences with them in the past.
- JS Mill - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:16 am:
=Bout the same as January 6th, the incident that required such precautions.=
Actually, probably far less since the troops I have seen on TV have been wearing masks unlike the traitorous insurrectionists.
With respect.
- Precinct Captain - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:28 am:
- essentially working - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 7:39 am:
Politico says at least 100 guard members have tested positive in their service at the capitol https://www.politico.com/news/2021/01/21/national-guard-troops-vacate-capitol-461220
- PublicServant - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:34 am:
I’m proud of our Senator. A true advocate for our men in uniform. Thank you Senator Duckworth.
- Cool Papa Bell - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:42 am:
100 guard members out of 20,000 in DC? Not good for those members but no where near a super spreader. And given the strict masking going on in the guard I think they were safer there than at home.
- Anyone Remember - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:45 am:
“It would appear the Capitol Police need a top to bottom house cleaning.”
As important as that may be, what the Capitol Police needs is for people to pay attention to it. [Sarcasm font on] But, then again, as it was once “supervised” by Terry Gainer, perhaps it needs an exorcism. [Sarcasm font off]
- oifredleg - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:57 am:
Well done, Ma’am!
- Ok - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 8:58 am:
Wherever they are, can someone at least get them some folding chairs?
- Marcus - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:08 am:
I would bet the order did not come from the Capitol Police. I did 25 years in the Military, and this action does not surprise me how soldiers are treated.
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2021/01/22/national-guard-troops-moved-to-a-cramped-parking-garage-complain-of-ingratitude-after-being-ordered-to-bug-out-of-capitol-building-they-came-to-protect/
- Sideline Watcher - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:09 am:
“I’m proud of our Senator. A true advocate for our men in uniform. Thank you Senator Duckworth.”
Agreed. For the women too.
- NIU Grad - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:11 am:
The worst part was the statement from the National Guard spokesperson in Politico touting how agile they are and that their forces are ready to set up anywhere when ordered…just because they can move at a drop of a hat, doesn’t mean you have to order that.
- JSS - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:12 am:
No tents? Nothing? Not really confidence inspiring that our military can’t (or won’t?) provide some basic amenities within DC. I was stationed in DC while in the Army, Ft. McNair, Washington Navy Yard, 8th and I Marine Barracks are all close to the Capitol, i.e. walking distance. Boling Air Force Base, Ft. Myer, and the Pentagon itself are across the river, short drive away. All of these posts or bases have housing, or at a bare minimum open space to get some tents set up.
- Responsa - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:19 am:
This was terrible for the troops’ well being and terrible for the image of the Capitol Police who were already under considerable public scrutiny for their apparent lack of prep and performance on the 6th. The Capitol Police are (like many other critical government agencies) supposed to be on the job and professional through thick or thin no matter who is in charge or what the party make-up of Congress is. They failed. Heads should definitely roll over this. If the Capitol Police were not informed or not involved with the planning/logistics/call-up of all these NG from across the country for the inauguration then Tammy, and the states, and the public deserve answers about this aspect, too.
- Grandson of Man - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:21 am:
A great thanks to the National Guard and Sen. Duckworth, who not only served and sacrificed but is a strong advocate.
Are we now going to be at a chronic risk for more insurrections and right wing domestic terrorism? We have to be at heightened alert, especially at the impeachment trial. We’re going to need law and order to protect us from “law and order” and “back the blue” fanatics.
- Really - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:26 am:
It is nice to see her show concern for our citizens in uniform.
- PublicServant - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:39 am:
=== Agreed. For the women too. ===
Good catch. My bad.
- Occasionally Moderated - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 9:44 am:
Great job Senator. I’m proud of her, she represents us well.
I’m just guessing but transportation was probably the weak link here. To steal a phrase that fits, do better.
- Chicago Cynic - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 10:29 am:
A shocking lack of respect. Couldn’t agree more about the Capitol Police. Honestly, I’m stunned by everything about the leadership of that force. Watched the interview with the former Chief and was aghast. “Who could’ve known this could happen?” Well, anyone paying attention. And this incident just proves the leadership cancer has metastasized way beyond the top leader.
The investigation of their failures now has another line of questioning.
- Streator Curmudgeon - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 10:43 am:
To quote Ricky Ricardo, “Aye aye aye aye aye.”
- Pizza Man - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:11 am:
Our hero, Senator Duckworth.
- Dysfunction Junction - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:16 am:
Well, at least some of them got promotion pins from one of an elected representative who made their visit to DC possible: https://twitter.com/RepLaHood/status/1352318108720132101
- Donnie Elgin - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:18 am:
The story of who ordered the troops out is evolving …
“National Guard Bureau spokesman Wayne Hall said the move was made without the knowledge of lawmakers.
“Our understanding is that the unfortunate request for the National Guard to be relocated was made to the Capitol Police by a couple of staffers.
- hisgirlfriday - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:19 am:
@Marcus - FWIW, Sen Inhofe says the order came from one member of Capitol Police force.
https://mobile.twitter.com/connorobrienNH/status/1352658198268948482
- striketoo - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:20 am:
The Capitol Police seem to go from bad leadership to terrible leadership. Pelosi and (up to now) McConnell should be held accountable.
- Ares - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:24 am:
A hero looking out for fellow heroes. Great!
- Ares - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:28 am:
Also, is there any way each of our Guardspeople in DC can receive a COVID-19 vaccine before returning home? It’s the least our Nation can do to thank them for their service.
- M - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:29 am:
“Politico says at least 100 guard members have tested positive in their service at the capitol.”
I am assuming they are referring to the national capitol not the state capitols.
- Mama - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:31 am:
“@Marcus - FWIW, Sen Inhofe says the order came from one member of Capitol Police force.”
https://mobile.twitter.com/connorobrienNH/status/1352658198268948482
The question is: Where did the Capitol Police force leader get the orders from?
- z - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:34 am:
As JSS said there are plenty of close military places the Guard could have gone to in shifts. At least get these people mats to lie on instead of concrete or marble. Cap Police keep making poor choices with no fore thought. Nice work by Duckworth.
- zatoichi - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:35 am:
-z- 11:34 is me.
- Donnie Elgin - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 11:45 am:
=The question is: Where did the Capitol Police force leader get the orders from?=
Military Times Headline…
Capitol Police: We didn’t order National Guard troops to move to parking garage
https://tinyurl.com/y33dck4d
- Old Sarge - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 12:03 pm:
Thank You
- Oswego Willy - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 1:32 pm:
=== The Troops from Washington State need to get home and take care of things.===
Huh. Has the governor of Washington state called upon the Guard at this moment? Have they responded?
Ah. You’re trolling. My bad.
- Oswego Willy - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 1:38 pm:
- Hickory -
From Gov. Inslee,
Dated yesterday;
=== Gov. Jay Inslee announced today that there will be long-term additional security measures in place at the state Capitol in Olympia, even as the Washington National Guard begins to drawdown its presence that followed increased threats leading up to the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration. The continued actions will include increased Washington State Patrol presence and the restricted area on West Campus. People will be able to exercise their free speech outside the fence in non-restricted areas.
“I am pleased that the Washington National Guard in support of the Washington State Patrol successfully protected the Capitol Campus from potential civil unrest,” Inslee said. “While this current mission will be demobilized over the weekend, we are taking steps to ensure the long-term safety and security of the people who work doing the people’s business in Olympia.===
Now you know.
To the post,
So much that has transpired in DC, it’s important that Illinois’ senator takes a very keen interests in our guard troops and how they are treated, I’m proud of those serving, thank them, and to Sen. Duckworth and her being a voice to them during these times.
- 1st Ward - Friday, Jan 22, 21 @ 3:11 pm:
Officially a super spreader event. Over 200 have tested positive. Glad we could spend billions on billions out of the trillions passed in the CARES act on corporate bailouts and special interests but can’t find the money to house the guard. Way to go….
https://www.wsj.com/articles/security-eases-in-washington-as-inauguration-week-ends-11611326520