What Never Came
The streets were empty on a normally bustling Sunday afternoon in New Mexico’s capital. Businesses around the Roundhouse were closed in anticipation of the violence following threats against many of the state’s lawmakers. It was an abnormally warm and beautiful day for January, and all anyone could do was wait for the expected.
A caravan of 12 state troopers sped by me on my way up to the capitol. Law enforcement from around the state were called in for extra security. After the attempted coup on our nation’s capitol inspired by the rhetoric of former president Donald Trump and many of his former allies, all precautionary measures were taken to avoid another violent episode.
Officers and armored vehicles patrolled its perimeter. Curious Santa Feans looked in awe at how their quiet city transformed into a fortress. (Justin Schatz | La Tonique)
The Roundhouse, normally surrounded by tourists admiring its architecture and statues, now lay behind two barricades. Officers and armored vehicles patrolled its perimeter. Curious Santa Feans looked in awe at how their quiet city transformed into a fortress.
A tweet by a reporter from Las Cruces Sun News on Sunday warned that there were expected protests throughout the week. A rally by supporters loyal to Donald Trump took place a week before with many decrying the election results. Although small, the rally in the wake of increasingly violent protests at other state capitols was enough to convince authorities to take extra precautions. These precautions were best observed in the heavy presence of New Mexico State Guardsmen throughout the city.
The protest was expected at noon on Sunday followed by more throughout the week leading up to Biden’s inauguration. Media from throughout the state waited alongside law enforcement. The capital held its breath for what was to come.
Hours passed and the scene at the capital cautiously deescalated. The smell of pizza hovered in the air. A few officers had ordered pizza. The streets began to fill with onlookers. Shops opened and a sense of normalcy returned to the warm January Sunday.
The founder of Cowboys for Trump, Couy Griffin, had been arrested due to his involvement with the storming of the nation’s capital. Griffin had been one of the primary organizers of the numerous and enthusiastic pro-Trump rallies held in the months leading up to the election.
Social media was quiet and continues to be quiet regarding any future protests contesting the election. The movement in New Mexico seems to have paused as Trump retires to Mar-a-Largo. Supporters of Trump may be without direction as their leader reluctantly conceded the White House, but they have lost none of their zealous dedication to the man.