Congress Investigates Alleged Security Incidents During Trump Capitol Visits, Including a Gun-Related Episode

Congress is currently investigating two alleged security incidents that took place during President Donald Trump’s recent speeches at the U.S. Capitol. These incidents, as reported by House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil, involve a gun and concerns over a potential metal detector evasion.

The U.S. Capitol Police Inspector General’s office is handling the investigation to ensure transparency and security for both the public and congressional members.

The more recent incident happened on March 4 and was documented in a Capitol Police report. This report detailed a gun found in a backpack, and although the earlier incident from Trump’s Inauguration Day lacks a police file, it was brought to congressional leaders’ attention by the House sergeant-at-arms.

When asked about the specifics of the incidents, Steil emphasized the importance of keeping the Capitol secure while being open to the public.

On March 4, a Capitol Police report confirmed that a suspect attempted to enter a House office building with a weapon during Trump’s address to Congress. The report stated that an officer discovered a handgun with a 15-round capacity magazine inside the suspect’s backpack.

Although the suspect had a Concealed Carry License for the District of Columbia, concerns remain about unauthorized access to the Capitol complex.

House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office is aware of the March 4 incident and is working with House Committees to ensure answers are provided. The incident represents a serious security breach that will undergo thorough investigation. The Speaker’s office is committed to addressing these allegations appropriately.

Additionally, officials reported an earlier security incident on Inauguration Day involving a woman allegedly bypassing a metal detector. There is concern she may have been armed, given her ties to law enforcement, though no definitive findings have been made by the Capitol Police Inspector General.

Capitol Police stated they have no official records of this incident, and no complaints were filed with their Office of Professional Responsibility.

The investigation into these security concerns follows earlier lapses identified during the 2024 election cycle. Previous significant threats against President Trump, including assassination attempts, highlighted vulnerabilities that the Secret Service has since worked to address. With rising threats, the Secret Service continues to bolster security measures for the president.

Security risks extend to congressional members as well, evidenced by the arrest of a Democratic staffer for attempting to bring ammunition into a House office building.

Michael Hopkins, who worked as Rep. Joe Morelle’s communications director, claimed he forgot the magazines in his bag. He now faces charges for unlawful possession of ammunition and was subsequently dismissed from his role.

The Capitol Police have recently faced scrutiny for security failures during the January 6 riots. Investigations revealed lapses, such as officers abandoning a bag of plastic handcuffs and leaving doors unlocked for protestors. These failures highlighted the need for improved security measures within the Capitol.

Rep. Barry Loudermilk led a previous inquiry that criticized the Democrat-led Jan. 6th Select Committee for not adequately addressing security issues. Loudermilk’s report emphasized that the Capitol remains vulnerable to threats. The ongoing investigations aim to address these concerns and restore confidence in Capitol security.