Increase in Threats to Congress Members Reported

According to the U.S. Capitol Police, there has been a significant rise in the number of threat assessment cases involving lawmakers in 2023, with over 8,000 cases investigated. This marks an increase of more than 500 cases from the previous year. USCP Assistant Chief of Protective and Intelligence Operations Ashan M. Benedict stated that the upcoming political conventions, member campaigns, and ongoing debates on Capitol Hill are expected to make the year very demanding for the special agents. The USCP is committed to allocating all available resources to ensure the safety of Congress while adapting to an expanding mission. The surge in threat assessment cases is a common occurrence during election years, the release noted, citing an escalation from 7,501 cases in 2022 to 8,008 in 2023. The USCP pointed out that the increase in cases can be partially attributed to individuals feeling a sense of anonymity on social media platforms. The USCP continues to collaborate with the House and Senate sergeants-at-arms to enhance security for lawmakers both at their residences and during congressional events. Additionally, security awareness training for legislators and their staff is being conducted to prioritize safety for all individuals involved.