The U.S. Capitol Police announced Thursday that it investigated more than 8,000 incidents of threats against members of Congress in 2023, an increase from the previous year.
There were about 7,500 threats in 2022, but both numbers fell short of 2021's total of about 9,600, which was exacerbated by the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. The number of threats is highest in major election years; USCP said.
The agency constantly tracks a “wide range of threats” through the mail, phone, social media and even the internet. USCP expects the threat rate to further increase in the lead-up to the upcoming presidential election.
“This is going to be a very busy year for our special agents, with political conventions, legislative campaigns, and many issues being discussed on Capitol Hill,” Chief of Staff Ashan Benedict said. “Our team is dedicated to dedicating all of our resources to protecting Congress while continuing to grow to meet our expanding mission.”
The number of threats against members of Congress continued to increase this year, and in 2022 the number of threats will decrease for the first time in five years.
USCP has significantly increased staffing and security measures since the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, including increasing staffing beyond pre-pandemic levels in early 2023.
“Over the past three years, the agency has made dozens of changes to improve information, planning, communications, training, staffing and equipment,” the agency said in a statement.
“U.S. Capitol Police special agents work 24/7 to investigate threats and work with law enforcement to prevent potential attacks on members of Congress.”
In recent months, members of Congress have been the targets of a series of high-profile swatting scandals, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Rep. Brandon Williams (R-New York).
Arrests were also made last year in connection with incidents including anti-Semitic threats against Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and the attack on Rep. Angie Craig (D-Minnesota). .
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