Members of Congress are re-evaluating their security protocols after the deadly attack in Minnesota on Saturday, where the gunman, Vance Boelter, shot two Democratic state lawmakers, killing one and wounding the other.
Boelter reportedly had a “hit list” of 45 elected Democrats, including prominent federal figures such as Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN) and Reps. Hillary Scholten (D-MI) and Greg Landsman (D-OH).
The attack has ignited a fresh debate on the safety of federal politicians, with top leaders condemning the violence and calling for increased security measures.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) have requested a briefing from the U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms Office for Tuesday morning.
Schumer emphasized the need for “moral clarity” and a unified condemnation of political violence, also requesting additional security for Senators Smith and Alex Padilla (D-CA).
The heightened concern comes amidst a significant increase in threats against lawmakers. Thomas Manger, the former Capitol Police Chief, reported earlier this year that threats have “shot through the roof,” escalating from an average of 1,000-2,000 per year to 8,000-9,000 annually.
READ: California Sen. Padilla’s Capitol Hill Tears: Was DHS Clash Political Theater?
While many lawmakers agree on the need to address rising threats, some, like Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), express skepticism about the feasibility of constant security for all politicians, particularly state legislators.
Rounds highlighted that the U.S. Capitol Police typically authorize additional security for House members and Senators “when there is a known threat.” He supported increased investigations into online threats, suggesting that “once you get to the point of threatening that’s when maybe someone needs to have a visit with them.”
Calls for increased personal security funding are gaining bipartisan traction. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) and Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY) have urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to prioritize member safety, citing past assassination attempts and the departure of public servants who no longer feel safe.
Republican members are also reportedly circulating a letter advocating for enhanced security measures. As Sen. Rounds noted, “It’s not just the members who are at risk, it’s also their staffs who are at risk.”
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
