SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Jan. 14, 2021 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Spencer Cox has declared a state of emergency ahead of potential protests at the Utah State Capitol this weekend.
The precaution comes after the siege of the U.S. Capitol that occurred on Jan. 6, in Washington, D.C., which resulted in five deaths including a U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick and significant damage to the historic building, said a statement from the Office of the Governor.
“We respect the right of Utah residents to peaceably assemble as guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution,” said Cox. “But we draw the line at threats to physical safety or to the Utah Capitol building. No violence of any kind will be tolerated.”
Executive Order 2021-5 applies to the Capitol Hill complex, facilities and grounds and is effective Jan. 15-21.
The governor has asked the Utah National Guard, Utah Highway Patrol and various area police departments to stand ready to ensure the safety of lives and property at Utah’s Capitol, the statement said.
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