CLEAN : Surreal, heartbreaking, scary: Capitol Hill residents react to events unraveling in their own backyard

The speaker reflects on the changes in their neighborhood, particularly around the Capitol, noting the presence of a large fence and the recent protests. They express a desire for unity despite political differences, especially during the inauguration. The speaker shares a personal connection to the area, describing it as their backyard and expressing sadness over its current state. They voice concerns about potential violence and the impact on democracy, emphasizing the need for a more constructive political discourse.

What recent change in the neighborhood does the speaker find surreal?

• The presence of a large fence around the Capitol

• The increase in traffic

• The construction of new buildings

• The opening of a new park

Why does the speaker find the current state of the Capitol lawn heartbreaking?

• It is boarded up and inaccessible

• It is being renovated

• It is crowded with tourists

• It is being used for a concert

What potential future event is causing concern for the speaker?

• A new law being passed

• A natural disaster

• Potential violence before the inauguration

• A change in local government

What does the speaker fear about the current political discourse?

• It is too focused on international issues

• It poses a threat to democracy

• It is becoming too formal

• It is losing public interest

What does the speaker believe about the events that occurred on Wednesday?

• They were a peaceful protest

• They were a threat to democracy

• They were a celebration

• They were a misunderstanding