WASHINGTON — U.S. intelligence officials say the Jan. 20 inauguration is an attractive target for international and domestic terrorist groups, but they know of no specific threat that might disrupt the celebration.
An intelligence assessment obtained by The Associated Press says the high visibility of the event, the presence of dignitaries and the significance of swearing in the country’s first black president make the inauguration vulnerable to attacks.
Threats against President- elect Barack Obama have increased since he was elected. This, and other considerations such as the large crowds expected, factored into security plans that will close bridges and 3.5 miles of downtown Washington on Jan. 20. The security perimeter covers more of the city than previous inaugurations.
