The US Capitol building has gone into lockdown, with politicians inside, as violent clashes broke out between supporters of President Donald Trump and police.
Both chambers of Congress abruptly recessed as they were debating the Electoral College vote that gave Joe Biden the presidency.
There was confusion in the House chamber as the Capitol doors were locked and debate was suspended.
A representative from the Capitol police spoke from a lectern on the dais and told politicians to remain calm, and that more information would be available soon.
An announcement was played inside the Capitol as politicians were meeting and expected to vote to affirm Joe Biden's victory.
Due to an "external security threat," no-one could enter or exit the Capitol complex, the recording said.
The skirmishes occurred outside in the very spot where president-elect Biden will be inaugurated in just two weeks.
Holy shit pic.twitter.com/dofEG2SmqP
— Jim Newell (@jim_newell) January 6, 2021
Protesters tore down metal barricades at the bottom of the Capitol's steps and were met by officers in riot gear.
Some tried to push past the officers who held shields and officers could be seen firing pepper spray into the crowd to keep them back.
Disbursement of tear gas in the Capitol rotunda, members grabbing gas masks located under each seat.
— Casey J. Wooten (@Casey_J_Wooten) January 6, 2021
Some in the crowd were shouting "traitors" as officers tried to keep them back.
A suspicious package was also reported in the area, Capitol Police said.
View from inside the Capitol as people gather on the West Front. The Capitol is currently on lockdown. pic.twitter.com/XKNKWNbHxZ
— Caroline Brehman (@carolinebrehman) January 6, 2021
The skirmishes came just shortly after President Trump addressed thousands of his supporters, riling up the crowd with his baseless claims of election fraud at a rally near the White House today ahead of Congress' vote.
"We will not let them silence your voices," Trump told the protesters, who had lined up before sunrise to get a prime position to hear the president.
The chaplain is praying in the chamber as protestors have reached the doors.
— Matt Fuller (@MEPFuller) January 6, 2021
Addressing the "Save America" rally on the Ellipse, just south of the White House, following speeches by his sons Eric and Donald Jr, Trump urged Vice President Mike Pence to help overturn Joe Biden's victory in the November election when Congress sat to certify the Electoral College votes.
"If Mike Pence does the right thing we win the election," Mr Trump said.
"All Vice President Pence has to do is send it back to the states to recertify and we become president and you are the happiest people," Mr Trump said, repeating a falsehood he has been promoting leading up to the congressional session.