The U.S. Capitol Police, the agency tasked with securing one of the nation’s most iconic and critical government buildings, is facing renewed scrutiny. Former Lt. Tarik Johnson, who resigned after more than 23 years of service following the events of January 6, has raised fresh concerns about the agency’s leadership under Chief Thomas Manger. According to Johnson, Chief Manger has allegedly been falling asleep during high-level security meetings, including those focusing on plans for the 2025 presidential inauguration—a sensitive event expected to draw significant public and political attention.
Johnson, who previously appeared on Tucker Carlson Tonight on FOX News to discuss his perspective on the Capitol riot, shared his latest concerns in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Labeling the situation as an “Emergency Alert,” Johnson claimed his sources on Capitol Hill reported Manger’s inattention during critical discussions with officers. If true, these allegations cast doubt on the preparedness and leadership of the Capitol Police as they work to secure a high-stakes event in just over a year.
Johnson’s accusations come against the backdrop of lingering questions about the Capitol Police’s readiness during the January 6, 2021, attack. Federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies reportedly had ample warning of potential violence leading up to that day, but key decisions made—or not made—by leadership contributed to the chaos.
Among the most controversial points is the role of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. According to Johnson and other critics, Pelosi declined to deploy the National Guard in the days before the protest, despite a request from then-President Donald Trump. Critics argue her decision left the Capitol woefully unprepared for the surge of demonstrators, many of whom breached the building’s defenses.
Frontline officers, including Johnson, were not informed of the potential threats ahead of time. Johnson has openly criticized the lack of communication and preparation, saying it put both officers and civilians in unnecessary danger.
As the nation looks ahead to the 2025 presidential inauguration, concerns about security are resurfacing. Presidential inaugurations have long been classified as National Special Security Events (NSSEs), requiring a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local agencies to ensure safety. The memory of the January 6 riot has only heightened the stakes, making thorough preparation more crucial than ever.
Johnson’s claims that Chief Manger is falling asleep during meetings dedicated to this preparation have sparked alarm. While the accusations remain unverified, they raise serious questions about the agency’s ability to meet its responsibilities.
“This isn’t just about one man falling asleep,” said a retired law enforcement official familiar with Capitol operations. “It’s about whether the Capitol Police leadership is fully engaged and capable of managing a large-scale security operation with all the complexities involved.”
Johnson’s post on X has fueled calls for an independent investigation into the leadership and readiness of the Capitol Police. Many are demanding transparency and accountability, arguing that the stakes are too high to overlook potential lapses.
Chief Manger, who has served as head of the Capitol Police since July 2021, has not publicly responded to the allegations. However, his tenure has been marked by ongoing challenges, including efforts to rebuild trust within the department and improve its operational capacity.
Lawmakers, too, are likely to weigh in. Security at the Capitol is not just a matter of protecting a building but ensuring the safety of the democratic process itself. Any perception of weak leadership or unpreparedness could have significant consequences for public confidence.
The 2025 inauguration will be closely watched, not only for its symbolic importance but also as a test of the nation’s ability to secure high-profile events in a polarized political climate. With these new allegations casting a shadow over Capitol Police leadership, the pressure is on to ensure comprehensive planning and execution.
For many, Johnson’s warnings are a wake-up call. Whether the concerns about Chief Manger prove to be isolated incidents or indicative of larger systemic issues, they underscore the critical need for vigilance, transparency, and accountability as the Capitol Police prepare for the challenges ahead
2 Comments
I think we only have about 5 black people in 5 white people that are honest in our whole government and obviously this capital. Police that are black have black privilege and are allowed to murder unarmed, white women, so the black capital police. Definitely have black privilege and can murder any white people they want without getting in any trouble
if he cant do his job he needs to be fired … but you are correct , they pull the race card ..sad