Follow Us

Ohio Gov. DeWine activates National Guard ahead of presidential debate in Cleveland

The city is hoping a large law enforcement presence prevents any violent protests.

Published: September 29, 2020 10:32am

Updated: September 29, 2020 4:39pm

Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine has activated several hundred National Guard members for Tuesday night's presidential debate in Cleveland over concerns about possible violent protests. 

Cleveland storefronts are already boarded up as guardsmen patrol streets in preparation for potential unrest.

DeWine said he activated 300 guardsmen to "ensure a safe and secure environment" during the debate.

Black Lives Matter Cleveland President LaTonya Goldsby has planned a "Presidential Debate Protest" for Tuesday night,

"We are looking to get together and have a peaceful demonstration and talk about the issues as it relates to Cleveland," Goldsby said. "This presidential debate has just created chaos within the city."

The Secret Service will be the main security on the event site, and the FBI, National Guard and local police will monitor areas outside of the debate site, Case Western University.

"We're hopeful that just having a presence, a large enough presence in the right places, will prevent any further necessity," said Maj. Gen. John Harris, the adjutant general of the Ohio National Guard. 

Just the News Spotlight

Support Just the News