OAKLAND -- The Oakland Police Department and many others around the country are preparing for whatever may happen on Election Night, November 4th. There is concern there could be a large and very public response because of the historic nature of presidential race and so much interest among American citizens.

Some internet blogs talk about massive protests if it appears that Democratic nominee Senator Barack Obama loses, since he is leading in the polls.

To prepare, Assistant Chief Howard Jordan of the Oakland Police said that police officers are being made aware of the crowd control policies. While he says he doesn't anticipate any problems, the department will be ready for celebrations or even riots. Jordan said there will be no changes in staffing; the same number of officers will be on duty as on any Tuesday. But they could be moved around to deal with large crowds.

Jordan also said that the department has been thinking about this and other contingencies for some time. "We've been keeping track of things that are happening around the nation, probably over the last 3 or 4 months. Watching the news, watching the polls. We have officers to monitor that and looking at things in terms of crowd control." In particular he said that they look to see what other large cities do when the candidates come to town and how they deal with the opponents of those candidates.

Jordan said Oakland wants its residents to know that they will be able to express their first amendment rights. But he also said police will enforce the law and protect people and property so that public safety won't be compromised.