Phoenix, law enforcement prepare for President's rally in Downtown Phoenix
All eyes will be on the Phoenix Convention Center on Tuesday, as President Donald Trump will hold a rally there. The challenge for police in Phoenix, however, is to allow people to exercise their right to free speech, while keeping the event safe.
On Tuesday, mailboxes in parts of Downtown Phoenix will be removed by the U.S. Postal Service, only to return a day later. This is to ensure no one will try to put a bomb in one of them, while the President is in town.
Public officials and law enforcement officials remain tight-lipped on their safety and security preparations for the rally.
"Tuesday will be difficult day for city and law enforcers who keep everyone safe," said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. "I am confident we have the right team in place to make that happen."
The goal is to make sure there is as little disruption to people's normal routines as possible. Officials, during a news conference on Monday, said only a few streets around the Phoenix Convention Center will be closed off.
"Monroe Street, 5th Street, 3rd Street, Jefferson will be contained around the Convention Center, but no major road closures are we anticipating as a result of this event tomorrow," said Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams.
Law enforcement officials said, on Monday, they are defending people's right to speak out, in a peaceful manner.
"Peace is the only option tomorrow," said Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone. "Speak freely, respect others, know men and women in uniform will be on the front line to protect your safety."
Police are reportedly not telling businesses Downtown to close early, unless they want to.
For Lonnie Pollard, he will stay open with his hot dog cart, named "Yogi's Bistro".
"I expect to have a good night," said Pollard. "Most sale's from water. People being thirsty, screaming a lot, whatever position they have."
Police also asking people in and around the Convention Center on Tuesday to help with safety and security.