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Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) issued the following statement after Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman recommended permanent fencing at the U.S. Capitol in the wake of the January 6th attack:

“I adamantly oppose the construction of permanent fencing around the U.S. Capitol Complex.

“A fence didn’t fail us on January 6th. Law enforcement leaders did. It is abundantly clear that we need to enhance Capitol security, but that security must be flexible to the threats we face. It’s also imperative that our law enforcement leadership takes seriously the danger of extremist violence.

“The mission of the Capitol Police is to protect Congress' ability to carry out our responsibilities in a 'safe, secure, and open environment.' I believe we can keep Members, press, staff, my constituents, and all those who work here safe without walling off the symbol of our democracy. 

“It’s the People’s House—let’s keep it that way.”

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