Capitol Police plans to remove outer fence and make other security changes

US Capitol Police intends to reduce perimeter fencing and is considering scaling back the National Guard presence at the Capitol as law enforcement forces examine how to protect against threats amidst a tense political climate and criticism from some lawmakers that the suggestions for long-range security are excessive.

The measures, outlined in an internal email, include removing the outer perimeter of the fence along the Capitol grounds within the next two weeks and using bike racks positioned in double rows outside some areas within one week to create a barrier between police and potential threats, giving officers more time to react effectively. Capitol Police still believes they are operating in a heightened threat environment due to the political climate and rise in domestic violent extremism, according to the email. Officials believe an attack from a single person, commonly known as a "lone wolf" attack, poses the biggest risk.