Congress holds emergency security briefings after Minnesota lawmaker attacks

On Tuesday, June 17, senators received a high-level security briefing from U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms. It’s a direct response to last weekend’s deadly attack on Minnesota lawmakers, which has reignited fears about rising political violence.

What do we know about the attacks?

The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, faces charges in connection with the killing of Minnesota House Democratic leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as shooting state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife during a targeted home invasion.

Authorities reported that Boelter was disguised as a police officer, wearing a tactical vest and body armor. They stated he had a hit list targeting more than 45 Democratic officials, including U.S. Sen. Tina Smith and state Reps. Hillary Scholten and Greg Landsman.

Investigators claimed Boelter had been planning the attacks for a while, driving to several lawmakers’ homes equipped with assault weapons, disguises and detailed surveillance notes.

Why hold a briefing?

Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and John Thune, who are also evaluating security support for members facing threats, requested the briefing.

Schumer said Sunday, June 15, that the bipartisan briefing would address security for Senate members and the country as a whole.

“We have to reevaluate how we are protecting members of Congress and staff in the face of rising threats, but we also have to look at protecting all American people as that happens,” he said.

What about the House?

During this week’s House recess, members will receive a virtual briefing on Tuesday, June 17, from the House Sergeant at Arms, as reported by CBS News. This briefing has been arranged by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Concerns over growing political violence

The shootings in Minnesota have raised concerns about increasing threats of political violence and the safety of elected officials.

In 2024, the U.S. Capitol Police’s Threat Assessment cases increased for the second consecutive year, with over 9,400 concerning statements and direct threats investigated against members of Congress, their families and staff.

Is security for state lawmakers realistic?

While members of Congress have access to some federal security resources, those protections often don’t extend to state or local lawmakers. Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota, a former state legislator and governor, said it’s not always feasible to provide regular protection at the state level.

He mentioned that Capitol Police usually authorize enhanced security for House members and Senators only “when there is a known threat.”

As threats have increased, members of Congress have gained access to new funding to enhance security at their personal homes. However, lawmakers from both parties have repeatedly called for Congress to permit them to spend more money on personal security.