Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam declares weapons ban ahead of Richmond gun rights rally

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam declared a temporary state of emergency in Richmond — banning guns and all other weapons from Capitol Square ahead of a scheduled gun rights rally that has already drawn “credible threats.”

The Democrat governor announced Wednesday that authorities found inflammatory online postings by pro-gun and militia groups, some from out of state, who are planning to attend the rally on Monday.

“Let me be clear,” Northam said. “These are considered credible threats by law enforcement agencies.”

“No weapons will be allowed on capitol grounds,” the governor continued. “This includes everything from sticks and bats to chains and projectiles.”