How Secret Service combats rising threat of political violence after Minnesota lawmakers shot, Donald Trump assassination attempt
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — Sunday marked the anniversary of an assassination attempt on President Donald Trump that resulted in injuries to the president and others, and the death of one individual.

The growing concern over politically motivated violence has prompted local and state lawmakers to focus on new specialized training offered by the U.S. Secret Service.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Lawmakers from across the nation gathered in Chicago for a bipartisan conference where this training was highlighted, aimed at helping them safeguard themselves amidst the increasing threats.

With recent instances of political violence, federal agents say physical and cyber safety is paramount, especially now on a local level.

In the wake of the chilling assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker, the attempted assassination of another and a flurry of politically motivated violence against more state lawmakers, including the fire-bombing of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home in Pennsylvania, a bipartisan organization founded in Chicago, The Council of State Governments, was moved to act.

“We feel we have an obligation to empower state leaders to take the steps necessary to make sure that they’re protected in an environment in which, frankly, domestic political violence is now an emerging threat,” said David Adkins Executive Director and CEO of CSG.

Adkins talked with the I-Team about state legislators as targets and explained the conference, drawing local lawmakers from across the country here to Chicago, and called on the U.S. Secret Service to speak about the unprecedented threat level now seen against local lawmakers and how they can respond.

“The threats that we have traditionally seen reserved for presidents and vice presidents have now devolved to the lowest levels of state government. And when everyone’s a target, everyone needs to take those steps to prepare,” he said.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Secret Service Field Office Joel Heffernan advised local legislators from as close as West Chicago and as far as Alaska on the best ways to prevent the worst possibilities.

READ MORE | ‘Completely blindsided’: Wife of Minnesota lawmaker shooting suspect Vance Boelter speaks out

“Assessing where you’re vulnerable, whether you have children, your spouse, what their exposure is, who knows where you live, and then having local coordination with law enforcement,” he said.

He gave lawmakers a crash course on personal and cyber security, saying, “I think that temperature is starting to raise with what’s going on in the country. So yes, I do believe it is elevating as we speak.”

State Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, told the I-Team she is feeling that pressure acutely.

“Things are so different. When I go to a restaurant, I pay attention to where I’m sitting. I pay attention to where the exits are. I know who’s in my company, who’s in my nearest vicinity, where my phone is at all times it’s pretty intense,” she said.

Among concerns close to home, the I-Team confirmed with Ald. Jason Ervin that his office was targeted by a bomb threat over the Fourth of July weekend.

Chicago police charged a 28-year-old man Monday.

Ervin said it was particularly concerning because his workplace is in a community center that hosts church services and baby showers. He said a threat to an elected official is a threat to the people.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Harvey Weinstein accuser Kaja Sokola is being sued for defamation. The plaintiff: Her sister

Harvey Weinstein Accuser Kaja Sokola Faces Defamation Lawsuit from Her Sister: A Family Legal Battle Unfolds

In the latest chapter of Harvey Weinstein’s legal saga, two sisters took…
Former ‘South Park’ writer owns Trump Kennedy Center domain names

Ex-‘South Park’ Writer’s Clever Domain Move Targets Trump at Kennedy Center

Former President Donald Trump’s decision to appoint a new board for the…
Preston Stone throws 3 TDs, Northwestern has 4 takeaways in 34-7 victory over Central Michigan at GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit

Preston Stone’s Three Touchdowns and Northwestern’s Four Takeaways Secure 34-7 Triumph Over Central Michigan at GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit

DETROIT — Preston Stone showcased his arm by tossing three touchdown passes,…
Israel FM accuses Palestinian Authority of aiding terror with ‘Pay-for-Slay’ after deadly attack

Israeli Foreign Minister Alleges Palestinian Authority Supports Terrorism Through ‘Pay-for-Slay’ Scheme Following Fatal Attack

JERUSALEM: Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, launched a scathing critique of the…
Marcus Mbow out to answer important Giants question in new role

Can Marcus Mbow Solve the Giants’ Puzzle? Discover His New Role and Impact!

The spotlight is now on Marcus Mbow as he steps into a…
WATCH: Video shows suspect push trooper to ground before stealing patrol cruiser on Christmas Day

Shocking Video: Suspect Overpowers Trooper and Escapes in Stolen Patrol Car on Christmas

A man is now in custody following an unusual incident on Christmas…
Ashlee Buzzard denies murdering daughter Melodee, won’t face death penalty

Shocking Twist: Ashlee Buzzard’s Plea in Daughter Melodee’s Case Avoids Death Penalty

In a recent court appearance, California mother Ashlee Buzzard entered a plea…
Former 'Big Brother' contestant Mickey Lee dead at 35

Former ‘Big Brother’ Contestant Mickey Lee Passes Away at 35

In a heartfelt tribute, fellow contestants of “Big Brother” have been remembering…
Don't Pop the Champagne Just Yet - Bush Admin Alum Warns JB Pritzker Over SCOTUS Nat'l Guard Decision

Bush Era Expert Cautions Governor Pritzker on Supreme Court’s National Guard Ruling

On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court opted not to halt a lower…
Man arrested for attempted murder on Christmas in Fort White

Suspect Apprehended in Christmas Day Attempted Murder Case in Fort White

A 53-year-old man named Johnny McNutt has been taken into custody following…
Wrightwood, California flooding news: 4 weather-related deaths in state, with continued risk of mudslides

California Weather Crisis: Wrightwood Floods Lead to 4 Tragic Deaths Amid Ongoing Mudslide Threats

This week, Southern California experienced its wettest Christmas season in recent memory…
Holiday travel rush picks up in Chicago area as travelers head out for the new year

Navigate the Chicago Holiday Travel Frenzy: Tips for a Smooth New Year Journey

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is forecasting another record-breaking year for holiday…