The recent targeted shootings of two Minnesota state lawmakers have reignited urgent discussions about safety among members of Congress, prompting calls for increased security measures amid escalating political violence and rhetoric. Lawmakers are raising alarms about their safety as they confront the growing risk of violence in the political arena.
In response to the shootings, law enforcement officials have initiated a series of security briefings for congressional members, with discussions on security protocols continuing into the week. Lawmakers have been informed that they can utilize office budgets to invest in home security systems and can allocate campaign funds for private security. However, only a limited number of congressional leaders receive 24-hour protection from Capitol Police, and additional security is assigned based on assessed threats.
Despite these assurances, many lawmakers remain uneasy. “It’s scary as sh–,” expressed a senior House lawmaker, highlighting the pervasive anxiety following the recent incidents. The tragic events in Minnesota included a shooting that left state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband dead, and state Sen. John Hoffman seriously wounded. The suspect, Vance Boelter, allegedly impersonated a police officer to gain access to the lawmakers’ homes before the shootings.
A list of Democratic officials, including Senators Tina Smith and Tammy Baldwin, was found in Boelter’s vehicle, raising further concerns among members of Congress about their safety. Baldwin emphasized the need for a collective effort to reduce political violence, stating, “There’s no place for political violence ever. Words matter.”
In light of the threats, some lawmakers are taking precautionary measures, such as Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Mich., who canceled a town hall meeting after learning her name was also on the suspect’s list. She stressed the importance of open communication with her constituents but acknowledged the need for safety.
Following the Minnesota shootings, House Democratic leaders have urged their Republican counterparts to enhance safety protocols for all members of Congress. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Joe Morelle called for an increase in office budgets to support additional security measures, citing the need for a bipartisan approach to ensure lawmakers’ safety.
The discussions come amid a backdrop of rising threats against lawmakers, with the Capitol Police Threat Assessment Section documenting nearly 9,500 concerning statements and threats against Congress members in the past year—a figure that reflects a worrying trend in political violence.
While the protection of lawmakers remains a priority, providing round-the-clock security for all 535 members of Congress poses significant logistical and financial challenges. However, officials have pointed to existing resources, such as a program established after the January 6 Capitol riot, which allows members to access funds for home security systems.
In the wake of the Minnesota shootings, lawmakers are also considering legislation that would grant them the same protections that judges currently receive regarding personal information privacy. Senator Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., expressed hope that these tragic events might prompt a shift in sentiment within Congress.
As conversations about security intensify, lawmakers continue to grapple with the implications of political violence on their roles and responsibilities. The need for enhanced safety measures is becoming increasingly critical as the nation confronts the realities of threats against its elected officials.
