“I was, as many Americans and many citizens of the world, watching the events of last Wednesday unfold in our nation’s capital,” Spadafore said. “My thoughts instantly turned to what could happen here. We are the seat of government for our state, and we've seen folks show up with weapons, trying to intimidate lawmakers, all those types of things. … We need every available resource we can muster to make sure that any of those First Amendment demonstrations remain peaceful."

The FBI warned local law enforcement agencies Monday about the possibility for armed protests and violence at all 50 state capitols, according to the Associated Press which was followed by an open carry firearm ban at the Michigan Capitol.

Whitmer’s Deputy Press Secretary, Chelsea Parisio told The State News in an email, “This is something that we are monitoring closely and will ensure that the necessary security measures are in place. No additional details to share at this time.” 

In other efforts to secure Michigan’s Capitol, the Michigan State Police asked commissioners to install a 6-foot fence around the Michigan Capitol building.

The security of Michigan’s Capitol has been called into question since April of last year after armed mobs stormed the capitol and the FBI discovered a plot to kidnap Whitmer and other Michigan officials.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel tweeted on Jan. 12 that “the Michigan Capitol is not safe.” 

“When someone tells you, they are going to show up in your home and bring weapons and potentially be violent, you should take them at their word and heed that warning,” Spadafore said. “And that's what we're going to do, call all available law enforcement agencies and resources to help ensure the safety of our residents and visitors.”