NEW YORK (Sputnik) – Though demonstrations in front of Trump Tower throughout Election day remained peaceful, in the final hours before the announcement of the results, tensions rose between Republican and Democratic supporters. Police had to interfere on numerous occasions to break up heated arguments and separate members of the crowd.
"In New York City, we are in constant state of high alert, which we maintained in the weeks and months leading up to Election night," NYPD Officer Gerard Fort said. "We are fully prepared for all kinds of violent scenarios. In fact, at this point we almost expect them and take safety measures accordingly. We are always on the lookout."
Tuesday marked one of the highest levels of police presence in the city, with over 5,000 officers reportedly on duty, Mayor de Blasio said in a statement on Monday.
Donald Trump became the next US President on Wednesday, after winning in several key states.