The Politics Hour: Regional leaders weigh in on inauguration security and the future of local federal workers

The Politics Hour with Kojo Nnamdi

"We have to change our plan. But we can do that... We'll continue to make sure that wherever it is, however it's done, that it's done safely and without any disruption," Manger said.

Then, D.C. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Lindsey Appiah got behind the mic to explain the city's preparations and provided advice for those planning to attend the events across the city.

"We always support people’s right to exercise their first amendment rights, but we can’t tolerate violence or any sort of destruction of property or any of those things. So, we say come down, participate, pack your patience, but also you understand you gotta abide by the law here," Appiah said.

Thirty-five hundred police officers from around the country will assist D-C’s police department, the Deputy Mayor noted, supplemented by drones.

President-elect Donald Trump vowed during his campaign to drastically reshape the federal workforce, including possibly relocating tens of thousands of employees and making big cuts. Many local federal workers are concerned about what the future might hold. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) and Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) discussed how a second Trump term could impact the thousands of federal workers in the region.

Connolly and other members of the House re-introduced legislation that would guarantee some protections for federal workers. While several Republicans do support the bill, Connolly is pessimistic about it passing through a Republican-controlled House.

"I think it’s an uphill battle because all too many of my friends on the other side of the aisle, in the House anyway, have swallowed the kool-aid. It’s almost like dealing with a cult," Connolly said.

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