Congress Boosts Security Funding After Charlie Kirk’s Killing
UPDATE: Following the shocking killing of prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Congress is urgently moving to tighten security measures for its members. House Speaker Mike Johnson gathered lawmakers this week to express their collective grief and fear, stating, “For so many of us, it has felt as if the ground was shaken.”
The assassination of Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, has heightened anxiety among lawmakers across party lines, prompting swift action to enhance their safety protocols. Senate Majority Leader John Thune confirmed late Thursday that a new measure allowing senators to reallocate office funds for security purposes passed unanimously. As the political climate grows increasingly volatile, members of the House are also advocating for substantial increases in security funding.
Lawmakers now recognize that their public engagements require security measures akin to those provided for the president and executive officials. “If you go back several years ago, people were like, ‘Yeah, I understand there’s a risk.’ But now it’s different,” said Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma. “Our families are coming to us and saying, ‘What are we gonna do?’”
Currently, many rank-and-file lawmakers are often left without security when outside Capitol Hill, which is protected by U.S. Capitol Police. Some resort to hiring private security at their own expense. “Members of Congress receive much less security than local officials or judges,” remarked Rep. Greg Casar of Texas. “Political violence is meant to silence us, and we can’t be silenced for the sake of democracy.”
The urgency of these security measures is underscored by alarming statistics from the Capitol Police. The department reported over 9,000 threats in 2024, with projections to handle around 14,000 by year-end. “This is a national security issue. This is a big deal and we’re taking it very seriously,” stated Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, who has faced threats against her loved ones.
The House recently passed a funding bill adding approximately $88 million for security enhancements for lawmakers and judicial members. Notably, a program initiated in July has doubled funding for House members to $10,000 per month for security expenses. Lawmakers are also allowed to spend up to $20,000 on in-home security equipment.
While this funding increase is significant, it does not extend to the president or Capitol Police, who operate under separate budgets. “Federal judges have marshals. Obviously, the executive has federal law enforcement. Members of Congress are unprotected,” highlighted Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida.
Calls for enhanced security measures are becoming increasingly urgent. Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee criticized GOP leadership for not fully grasping the vulnerabilities faced by elected officials. “It’s tough for leadership to understand they’re in their little protective bubble,” he said. “We’re out basically on our own with our families, and that’s a very scary proposition right now.”
As threats escalate, lawmakers are coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure safety during public events. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida is advocating for a comprehensive security strategy that includes protective personnel for all House members. Citing the assassination of her friend, former Rep. Gabby Giffords, she stated, “The risk is too great.”
With political violence on the rise, Congress is taking steps to ensure the safety of its members and their families. The implications of this shift in security approach are profound, reflecting a new reality in American politics that demands urgent attention and action. As discussions continue, lawmakers are determined to push for additional funding and comprehensive safety measures to protect those who serve in public office.
