Lawmakers get safety briefing after Minnesota shootings
Share this @internewscast.com


() A new House proposal would provide additional security to lawmakers when they return to their home districts on recess or during weekends.

The measure comes as Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar joins the growing number of lawmakers advocating for more protection as threats of political violence start to surge.

“I personally think we need one: More security for members, I’ve been a longtime advocate for this and have worked with the police in the Capitol,” Klobuchar said at the Hill Nation Summit. “But we have to do more in the local areas.”

The shootings of the two Democratic Minnesota state lawmakers are still fresh on many lawmakers’ minds. Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband died as a result of the shooting, and Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were seriously injured.

House lawmakers believe that at this moment, given the threat level, something more is needed to keep them safe in their home districts and during events there.

The plan would increase what could be considered as Congress’s individual allowance. Each member gets a certain amount of discretionary money that they can use however they wish. That funding would increase to $20,000 per year just for security, and $10,000 of it can be used for physical security improvements in their homes, according to the U.S. Committee on House Administration.

It would also call for greater collaboration with local law enforcement.

The U.S. Capitol Police said the threat level against politicians has increased in the last couple of years. In 2017, there were nearly 4,000 credible threats and in 2024, that number rose to 9,474. Authorities said the credible threat level could likely reach 10,000 this year.

“I think the rules already allow for any type of hardening for security to happen,” Republican North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said. “I think members just need to use discretion. $20,000 frankly sounds a little ritz to me, but there are people getting active threats, and there are two people serving prison sentences for death threats against me, and I promise I’ll prosecute anybody who threatens my safety and my family’s safety.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Federal Agent Draws Weapon on Pregnant Woman, Incident Captured in Viral Video

A pregnant woman from Illinois, who became the focal point of a…

Have Your Say: Hillsborough County’s Equestrian Center Relocation Needs Your Input!

In Hillsborough County, officials are seeking public feedback on a plan that…

Experience the Joy of Giving: Feed the Hungry’s Heartwarming Holiday Meal Initiative

SAVANNAH, Ga. — In a delightful preview of the holiday season, Feed…

Join the Spooktacular Fun: Downtown Kingsport’s ‘Trick or Treat on the Street’ Celebration!

In Kingsport, Tennessee, the downtown area experienced a delightful transformation on Saturday…

Historic Milestone: East Timor Joins ASEAN in First Expansion in Decades

KUALA LUMPUR – In a historic moment for East Timor, the nation’s…

Pinellas County Hosts Secure Medicine Takeback Event: Protect Your Community & Environment

On Saturday, law enforcement agencies across Pinellas County, Florida, came together for…

High School Athletics Update: October 25, 2023

The postseason excitement has kicked off for boys’ soccer and cross country…

Discover the Rich History of the Now-Demolished East Wing of the White House

WASHINGTON – Betty Ford famously remarked that while the West Wing serves…

Shocking Heist Uncovered: Suspects Nabbed in Daring Crown Jewels Theft at Paris Louvre

PARIS (AP) — Authorities have apprehended suspects in relation to the daring…

ETSU Celebrates Legacy of First African American Students with New Sculpture Unveiling

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — East Tennessee State University (ETSU) proudly introduced five…

Federal Response Escalates: Tear Gas Deployed in Chicago Neighborhood Unrest

CHICAGO (WGN) — Authorities detained at least three individuals following a tense…

Remains of WWII Hero Finally Returned Home After 81 Years Missing in the Pacific

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) – In a poignant moment steeped in both…