Smaller than expected "Justice for J6" rally met with large police presence

• About 400 to 450 people were inside the protest area, excluding law enforcement, Capitol Police said.

Driving the news: Media and police officers — from the U.S. Capitol Police and D.C.'s police department — vastly outnumbered the demonstrators in attendance, according to AP.

• Former Trump campaign staffer and rally organizer Matt Braynard opened the rally, asking for a round of applause for police officers.

State of play: Security preparations ramped up ahead of the pro-Trump demonstration, where hundreds of protesters were expected to show support for individuals arrested for storming the Capitol on Jan. 6.

• Security fencing around the Capitol was reinstalled and multiple congressional offices closed ahead of the rally.
• Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved a request from Capitol Police to provide 100 D.C. National Guard troops in case law enforcement requires additional support.
• A permit for the rally allowed 700 people, but police were concerned that some demonstrators could arrive with weapons, per AP.

Go deeper: Senate offices closing ahead of "Justice for J6" demonstration

Editor’s note: This post has been updated with new details throughout.