Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas, expressed concerns about her safety after recent shootings involving lawmakers in Minnesota, emphasizing the need for increased funding for Congressional member security.
“No, not at all,” Crockett responded when asked about her feelings as an elected official in the current political climate during a Thursday interview with ABC.
To address this issue, she suggested reallocating funds from various projects, including a recent military parade organized by the U.S. Army, to enhance safety for lawmakers while on the job.
“Here’s the thing. I do this job, and the fact that my safety has become part of it is really troubling,” she noted. “Meanwhile, we’re spending millions for a birthday parade.”
“Can we just redistribute some of those dollars?” she asked rhetorically.
Crockett highlighted that an ongoing resolution contains over $25 million earmarked for 24-hour security for the nine justices of the U.S. Supreme Court.
“I’m not asking for a million, but can we get something? Because right now, we have nothing,” she stated. “Only those in leadership positions have protection. It feels unfair. If we want security, we have to raise enough money for it ourselves.”
“This is definitely a significant issue, especially considering the current climate,” she added.
She mentioned that lawmakers have reached out to their Republican counterparts to discuss legislative efforts aimed at improving safety for all lawmakers.
“We still have a role to play,” Crockett remarked. “Congress isn’t particularly popular, but we’re still elected officials and part of an equal government branch—yet it often feels like we’re treated like afterthoughts.”
Her remarks followed a disturbing incident involving former Minnesota Senator Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were shot at their home by individuals posing as law enforcement officers. Surveillance footage captured the event. The suspect, Vance Belter, 57, has been arrested and faces multiple murder charges at both state and federal levels.
While authorities have not disclosed a motive for the attack, Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz characterized it as “politically motivated.”
Additionally, Belter is alleged to have shot and seriously injured Minnesota Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Ybette, just before Hortman was attacked. Officials revealed that Belter had a notebook listing numerous lawmakers, which is being considered a “hit list.”
