It's hard for me to give good reasons, because I don't believe in them. To show support? Why? Why would he need to see who his supporters are at risk to themselves? He couldve prevented this from happening. People supported him already. Maybe, he was wanting those numbers of people to compare to the inauguration so that he could further point out that visible supporters don't match up for Biden, which is pointless since its not like it will do anything. Maybe, the large numbers would be there more for the electors and challengers. It's easier to challenge, when you have a backing to help with opposition. I mean, if 5 dudes showed up and then the rest was antifa/blm/progressive extremists, it might would be discouraging. However, he seems to already do alright at rallies and such, so the extra push doesnt seem to be necessary. I feel that more likely, in trying to get people to carry and travel in groups, its more an attempt to identify and target. People who respond to this and actually go there, would also likely respond if he had a "call to arm" militia style, no? What better way to figure out better who those people are and possibly even take action against them? Wouldn't even have to go find them one by one; just call them patriots and highly encourage them to show up for a fight.