Local officials on high alert; Small pro-Trump rally gather peacefully in front of courthouse

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EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM)-Joseph R. Biden took the oath of office today – under tight security – and is now the 46th President of the United States.

Local law officials say they don’t expect any issues but are on stand-by and patrolling the area for the safety of the community.

Captain Brian Stephens with the Eureka Police Department says they are working with other local agencies.  

“Given some of the other activities that took place across the country on January 6^th, they are just taking the precautionary measures,” he said.  

Stephens says their job is to protect and serve – but allow the community to practice their first amendment right to assemble peacefully regardless of party affiliation.

“We have staged officers at both headquarters of both the Republican and Democratic parties and now we are just monitoring the Republican gathering,” he said.

About a dozen trump supporters gathered in front of the Humboldt County Courthouse to pay homage to former President Trump.

“I feel sad that President Trump’s last day is today, this seems like a perfect day to speak up for our First Amendment rights,” said Heidi, who asked that we don’t use her last name.  

Jack Moore is also a Trump supporter; he says he hates to see him go.

“I am personally here to thank President Trump for all he did for the country,” he said.

The outgoing president leaving the Capitol Wednesday morning skipping his successor’s swearing in – the first in 152 years – but wishing the administration success.

Mike Pence in attendance – with three former presidents and President Biden – who paid their respects at Arlington National Cemetery.

Republican Chair Doug Brower would not comment on camera but did send a joint statement with Democratic Chair Danny Kelly, earlier this month, asking for peaceful expression of speech moving forward.

Law officials say they have not heard of any threats in and around the area – but remain on tactical alert.

“We just want to ensure that we have resources available that folks are safe, and we want to make sure that we will provide that safety and service to the community,” said Captain Shawn Morris with the California State Highway Patrol.