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The decision to convert an underground parking lot into a dormitory for the National Guard soldiers protecting the United States Congress sparked resentment in Washington, forcing authorities to back down quickly.
About 25,000 troops were deployed to the United States capital to ensure security for President Joe Biden’s inauguration on Wednesday after supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol on January 6. Several of these soldiers used to rest in the corridors of Congress on the floor or even on field beds. But on Thursday afternoon, after the inauguration ceremony and the resumption of congressional hearings, the soldiers were moved to a nearby underground parking lot.
Images of soldiers sitting on the ground leaning against concrete poles in the garage under the faded neon light, and their limited access to the internet or access to restrooms or electrical outlets, infuriated elected officials of both parties, Republican and Democrat. .
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the decision was “unacceptable.” “I have informed those responsible for the security of the Capitol that it will not happen again and I promise to all members of the National Guard that it will not happen again,” he added.
For his part, Democratic Congressman Brendan Boyle considered that “it is an insult to all units of the National Guard that carry out orders and patrol in the cold and rain throughout the night,” noting that the soldiers “protected the Capitol when most we needed them. “
Republican Sen. Tim Scott saw this as “unacceptable and dangerous,” while Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth, who worked in the National Guard, offered to present her position to the reservists.
Hours later, the soldiers were transferred back to the Capitol complex.
On Friday afternoon, the First Lady of the United States, Jill Biden, paid a surprise visit to a group of servicemen in front of Congress and offered them candy. “The National Guard will always have a special place in the hearts of the entire Biden family,” he said, referring to the late son of President Beau Biden, who was a former member of the Delaware National Guard.
Jill Biden took photos with the soldiers.
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