Security for next month's inauguration is going to be pretty tight. So naturally, it makes sense that the organizers are taking a cold-eyed look at the group that figures to pose the biggest threat to President Bush at his swearing-in ceremony: the press. A Wonkette operative forwards this e-mail that's been sent to reporters around town:

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You are receiving this email as your name and information have been submitted to the Capitol Police for a security ID for the purposes of Inaugural activities coverage.  I have been notified by the Capitol Police that you are authorized to appear for a photo and fingerprinting at the Ford Building.

Fingerprinting! So much for the days when al-Qaida could take out a few dignitaries just by pretending they were writing for their high school newspaper. But really, this whole thing might let us figure out a few things about who the real trouble-makers in the press corps are. Anyone who doesn't show up on Jan. 20 to cover the whole Bushfest 2005 thing must have outstanding warrants against them! (Fineman, we're looking at you.)

Full e-mail after the jump. -- "Joe Klein"

From: Pesce, Ed (SAA)
Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2004 1:46 PM
To: Pesce, Ed (SAA)
Subject: Inauguration Procedures

You are receiving this email as your name and information have been submitted to the Capitol Police for a security ID for the purposes of Inaugural activities coverage.  I have been notified by the Capitol Police that you are authorized to appear for a photo and fingerprinting at the Ford Building. 

On or before January 10, 2005, you must go to the Credentialing Center located in the Ford House Office Building (also known as the “Annex 2” building).  It is located at 441 2nd Street, SW.  The room number is H2-116.  Their stated office hours are 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. With the upcoming holidays, I suggest you contact that office the day you intend to appear at (202/226-XXXX) before you go to insure they are open.  If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me at this email address or call the Senate Periodical Press Gallery at 202/224-XXXX.

Thank you for your patience with this process,

Ed Pesce

Dir.

Senate Periodical Press Gallery