Northam issues State of Emergency in Virginia; sends help to DC

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Governor Ralph Northam has issued a State of Emergency said he is sending personnel to assist in Washington D.C. as protesters in support of President Donald Trump have stormed the United States Capitol.

Northam said he is sending members of Virginia’s National Guard and 200 Virginia State Troopers to DC at the request of Mayor Muriel Bowser.

At the request of leaders in Arlington and Alexandria, Northam has issued a curfew for these areas from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. with limited exceptions.

“The violence we saw at the U.S. Capitol today was nothing short of an armed insurrection and a humiliating assault on American democracy. The President incited this mob with his refusal to accept the lawful results of a fair and secure election. And the members of Congress who have enabled him—and continue to encourage and praise his efforts—bear just as much responsibility,” Northam said in a statement in part.

Northam said he issued the State of Emergency so that the state can continue to respond.

“I continue to pray for the safety of every member of the House and Senate, all the staff, the journalists, everyone who works in the Capitol. And I commend the Virginia National Guard and Virginia State Police for quickly stepping up in this time of great need,” Northam said.

The governor and his team are also working with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer to respond to the situation in the nation’s Capitol.

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