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Gov. DeSantis activates Florida National Guard ahead of possible protests

The move comes days before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration and as Florida Senate staff has been asked to work remotely due to concerns.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis has activated the Florida National Guard ahead of possible protests in the state.

According to the governor's order, the amount of personnel needed to assist the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and state and local authorities will be designated by the Adjutant General.

"I direct the Florida National Guard to coordinate with and support the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in its efforts to support state and local law enforcement for security missions and assignments necessary to maintain peace," the governor wrote.

The order takes effect immediately and will remain in "full force" until January 24, 2021, or until assistance is complete. Any termination of the National Guard will be at Gov. DeSantis' direction. 

The move comes days before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration and as Florida Senate staff have been asked to work remotely due to concerns over Capitol protests.

Florida President Wilton Simpson believes protests in Tallahassee are "very likely" for Sunday but says that he believes Florida's Capitol is secure.

"Out of an abundance of caution, I am requesting that staff work remotely this Sunday, rather than traveling to the Capitol Complex," Simpson's email to senators read.

Earlier this week, the FBI warned about armed Capitol protests that are being planned across all 50 states.

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