Store owners around the US are boarding up their windows and doors. However, they are not preparing for a hurricane, they are preparing for the 2020 presidential election.

Based on the riots and protests that have become commonplace with the Trump administration in office, people are expecting a repeat of the Black Lives Matter and COVID-19 protests that they saw throughout this crazy year. Elections are taking place and many people are worried that protests and lootings will occur in defiance of this.

When we think of protests and riots, America does not automatically pop into mind. However, after this year’s events we have almost come to expect them during chaotic times, such as this election between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. According to the Free Press Journal, a poll showed that three out of four Americans were concerned about election day violence. 

So throughout the country, stores that were looted and damaged earlier this year as a result of some sort of riot or protest have taken proactive action to save themselves from the damage. Wooden boards can be seen being nailed over windows in hopes to stop looters who might try and break through. USA Today stated that large portions of downtown Washington, several blocks near the White House, have been sheathed in wood and makeshift barricades. People are saying that stores haven’t looked this protected since a hurricane took place. 

It’s sad that we have come to see such times in America where violent behavior is so expected and accepted. But it also demonstrates that the people are not happy with the current handling of events. Shop owners don’t want to risk their goods and are taking extra safety precautions to try and head off any damages that may arise from future protests.