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WASHINGTON, Aug. 27-- The White House has beefed up security ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's speech to accept the Republican Party's renomination from the South Lawn on Thursday night, while protesters are expected to stage demonstrations in the capital city. The Secret Service said in a statement that it, "in coordination with the National Park Service, is announcing perimeter closures of the areas in and around the White House complex," including Lafayette Park, which sits north of the presidential residence. "These measures include security fencing which is being erected and will be clearly marked," the statement added. "These closures are in an effort to maintain the necessary security measures and ensure public safety." Protesters opposing Trump are expected to gather in downtown Washington, D.C. on Thursday night. Shutdown DC, an activist group, has planned to hold a noise demonstration to counter Trump's remarks. A pro-Trump rally will take place at Freedom Plaza, east of the White House, on Thursday night. The event, organized by the Maryland GOP and the Maryland Black Republican Council, expects to draw up to 2,500 participants. Trump will "unload on" 2020 Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and go after the former vice president on "everything from the economy to trade," according to Politico, citing people familiar with the address. "At no time before have voters faced a clearer choice between two parties, two visions, two philosophies, or two agendas," Trump is expected to say. | 
