Schumer Calls for Increased Security After Attack on Minnesota Officials

⁣ ‍ Updated June 18, 2025
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Senate Democratic⁣ Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Tuesday that Congress must allocate substantially more funds for senators’ personal security. His call ‍to action follows a ⁤weekend⁢ attack in Minnesota where⁢ a state lawmaker ⁣was killed.

Schumer noted the dramatic increase in threats against senators and other elected officials.He⁣ said Capitol police will develop a comprehensive plan ⁤to better protect lawmakers both⁤ in ‍Washington,D.C.,⁣ and in their home states.The ⁤role of increased protection is vital, Schumer said.

“The Capitol Police and the [Senate] Sergeant ⁣at Arms gave a very⁣ detailed discussion about⁢ how they ⁤can protect members here,back in our states,in our homes,in our offices. The violences, the threats against⁢ elected officials, ⁣including people in the Senate, has dramatically increased,” Schumer said.

Sens. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., and david McCormick, R-Pa., have also voiced support for increased security spending, ⁢Schumer said.

The Democratic leader also urged⁢ public officials and commentators to cease using violent rhetoric, emphasizing the ⁢need for strong condemnation of⁤ violence from all⁤ leaders, including the president.

“The rhetoric that’s encouraging violence⁤ is coming from to many powerful in⁢ this country. We‍ need firm, strong denouncement of all violence and violent rhetoric.That should be from the⁢ president and all of ⁣the elected officials,” he said.

Vance Boelter, 57, was arrested in connection with the shooting of two Democratic officials in Minnesota.Authorities say Boelter had ⁢a hit list of 45 elected officials. He is accused⁢ of killing⁤ Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and wounding state⁢ Sen. ⁣John Hoffman and his wife.

What’s next

The Capitol⁣ Police and sergeant at arms will develop a⁣ security plan and cost estimate for the proposed security enhancements. Congress will then consider the funding request.