November 10, 2024

The Critical Period of Presidential Transition

The transfer of power in the United States is a critical period that requires careful management to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition. However, recent intelligence reports have highlighted a growing threat of terrorism during this period, particularly from domestic violent extremists (DVEs) who are motivated by election-related grievances and conspiracy theories [1].

Rising Threat from Domestic Extremists

According to recent bulletins prepared by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), there is an increasing risk of election-related violence from extremists who believe in widespread election fraud or have other election-related grievances [2]. These extremists are considering a range of activities to disrupt the 2025 peaceful transfer of power, including plans to engage in violent activities [3].

Impact on National Security

The weeks between Election Day in November and the swearing-in of a new president in January are usually packed with activities aimed at helping a new administration take over managing one of the world's most powerful countries [4]. Any disruption during this period can have serious consequences for national security [5]. The incoming president is responsible for making more than 4,000 political appointments, overseeing a budget of nearly $4 trillion, and managing a huge organization that employs more than 2 million federal employees and military personnel [6].

Preparations and Security Measures

In response to these threats, states are working closely with local and state law enforcement to lock down the Electoral College meetings, which take place simultaneously in all 50 state capitals and Washington, D.C. in December [7]. These preparations underscore the seriousness of the threat and the need for heightened security measures to ensure the peaceful transfer of power [8].

Conclusion

The threat of terrorism during the transfer of power of the US Presidency is a significant concern that requires careful attention and proactive measures to mitigate [9]. By understanding the risks and implementing robust security measures, we can help ensure a smooth and peaceful transition of power.

Citations

[1] Beitsch, R. (2024). U.S. Intelligence Alert: Extremists May Disrupt 2024 Elections. *The Hill*. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/4957125-domestic-violent-extremists-2024-election/

[2] Beitsch, R. (2024). U.S. Intelligence Alert: Extremists May Disrupt 2024 Elections. *The Hill*. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/4957125-domestic-violent-extremists-2024-election/

[3] Beitsch, R. (2024). U.S. Intelligence Alert: Extremists May Disrupt 2024 Elections. *The Hill*. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/4957125-domestic-violent-extremists-2024-election/

[4] Burke, J. P. (2018). Presidential Studies Quarterly, 48(4), 789-805. doi:10.1111/psq.12455

[5] Burke, J. P. (2018). Presidential Studies Quarterly, 48(4), 789-805. doi:10.1111/psq.12455

[6] Burke, J. P. (2018). Presidential Studies Quarterly, 48(4), 789-805. doi:10.1111/psq.12455

[7] Kumar, M. J. (2020). The transfer of power: A roundup of research on US presidential transitions. *Journalists Resource*. Retrieved from https://journalistsresource.org/home/transfer-power-presidential-transitions/

[8] Kumar, M. J. (2020). The transfer of power: A roundup of research on US presidential transitions. *Journalists Resource*. Retrieved from https://journalistsresource.org/home/transfer-power-presidential-transitions/

[9] Beitsch, R. (2024). U.S. Intelligence Alert: Extremists May Disrupt 2024 Elections. *The Hill*. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/4957125-domestic-violent-extremists-2024-election/