U.S. Army leadership responsible for any National Guard deployment in the capital region denied any special preparations were underway ahead of the Nov. 3 presidential election but asserted the Guard would be ready if needed.

“If we’re called upon, we will act in support of that, to protect federal property and support law enforcement,” Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said when asked about D.C. National Guard deployment if civil unrest occurs surrounding the Nov. 3 presidential election.

Recommended Stories

DC National Guard activated, reinforcements promised, as rioters lay siege to Capitol

‘Not engaged in clearing protesters’: Esper and Milley say military did not clear Lafayette Park

Despite unclear threat, National Guard protects Capitol in snowy conditions