Lawmakers in Washington are increasingly demanding enhanced security measures following the tragic assassination of Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband. This violent act has heightened tensions among both Democrats and Republicans, given recent political violence against public officials, including attacks on former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s home and threats to other lawmakers.
After Hortman’s death, concerns about safety have led members of Congress to push for more comprehensive security briefings. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Joe Morelle have urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to allocate additional funds for lawmakers’ offices to bolster safety measures, reflecting the urgent need for protection as threats against Congress members rise significantly—from 3,939 in 2017 to 9,474 in 2024.
Lawmakers have already begun altering their schedules for safety, with some, like Rep. Hillary Scholten, canceling public meetings due to fear of violence. Meanwhile, Tennessee Republican Rep. Tim Burchett plans to advocate for round-the-clock security services for all officials, highlighting their visibility and vulnerability.
Amid growing alarm, House Administration Committee Chairman Rep. Bryan Steil and Morelle have requested that Attorney General Pam Bondi assign federal prosecutors to address threats against Congress members, emphasizing that the current prosecutorial capacity is insufficient to handle the escalating danger effectively.
The atmosphere in Congress is tense, with many officials expressing a deep concern for their safety and the imperative to protect the institution of democracy. As calls for action intensify, lawmakers are facing a pressing urgency to implement measures that ensure the safety of elected officials and their families amid increasing threats and violent incidents.
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