Binghamton Mayor Concerned About Possible Protests in City

Government officials around the nation and in the Southern Tier are bracing for potential violence instigated by disgruntled supporters of President Trump.

Following the storming of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters, Binghamton Mayor Richard David said there are legitimate concerns about possible problems caused by people unhappy with the outcome of the election.

The mayor said he's had conversations with police chief Joseph Zikuski about "the safety and security of the city" including governmental buildings.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, David said "if it can happen in Washington, D.C., it can certainly happen anywhere."

The mayor said he believes the city police department is prepared for any type of protest that might occur in the next few weeks. But he said the advance notice and "the size of an event" are important factors.

David said the city often has been able to coordinate police response with organizers of past marches or demonstrations.

Law enforcement officers at Binghamton City Hall during what was billed as an "Upstate Uprising" rally on September 12, 2020. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)