Security at the U.S. Capitol was thrown into turmoil Wednesday afternoon as police arrested an armed man attempting to breach the Capitol Visitors Center (CVC). The incident unfolded just hours before President-elect Donald J. Trump was scheduled to meet with Republican lawmakers inside the building.
According to a statement released by the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), officers intercepted the man at the north security screening area of the CVC around 2:00 PM. Upon inspection, they discovered a machete and at least three knives concealed in his bag. The arrest led to a temporary shutdown of the screening area, heightening tensions as security concerns around the Capitol remain elevated.
As the man approached the north doors of the CVC, his belongings went through the x-ray machine. Officers immediately flagged a suspicious item and halted the screening process.
“During security screening at the CVC’s north doors, our officers spotted a machete in the man’s bag, stopped the x-ray machine, arrested the man, and secured the machete,” read the official statement from the USCP.
In addition to the machete, three knives were also found in his possession. Capitol Police detained the man and confirmed he would face multiple charges for carrying dangerous weapons.
The incident caused the temporary closure of the north-side screening area as officers investigated the scene. Normal operations resumed after officials determined there were no further threats.
The attempted breach comes amid heightened security around the Capitol, with preparations underway for President-elect Trump’s upcoming inauguration on January 20. The Capitol grounds have seen an increased law enforcement presence following a tumultuous presidential campaign that included at least two assassination attempts on Trump’s life.
During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last year, an assailant fired multiple shots at Trump, striking him in the ear. A supporter, Corey Comperatore, tragically lost his life while shielding his family from gunfire during the incident.
President-elect Trump is expected to meet with Republican lawmakers later this afternoon to discuss his legislative priorities. His visit comes during a poignant moment for the nation, as visitors flock to the Capitol Rotunda to pay their respects to the late President Jimmy Carter, who is lying in state.
While there is no direct evidence linking the armed man’s intentions to Trump’s visit or the memorial for President Carter, the timing of the incident has raised concerns about potential security risks.
USCP emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of everyone on Capitol grounds, including lawmakers, staff, and visitors.
“Our officers acted swiftly and professionally to prevent what could have been a dangerous situation,” a Capitol Police spokesperson said. “Security measures will remain rigorous as we continue to safeguard the Capitol during this sensitive period.”
The arrest has sparked a wave of public concern, with many taking to social media to express their fears over security vulnerabilities at such a high-profile location.
“Thank God for the vigilance of Capitol Police,” one Twitter user wrote. “This could’ve been so much worse.”
Others called for even stricter security protocols, particularly in light of Trump’s history as a target for violent attacks.
The incident underscores the heightened risks associated with the Capitol’s role as a focal point for national events. With Trump’s inauguration on the horizon and the Capitol frequently hosting dignitaries and memorial events, law enforcement faces mounting pressure to maintain a robust security posture.
Experts warn that the presence of armed individuals at such critical locations is a reminder of the need for constant vigilance.
“High-profile events, especially involving political figures like President-elect Trump, are natural targets for those looking to make a statement,” said a security analyst. “The quick actions by Capitol Police are commendable, but this also serves as a wake-up call to review and strengthen existing measures.”
As the Capitol prepares for the transition of power, the focus remains on ensuring a safe environment for the inauguration and related events. Officials are also expected to release more details about the armed man’s motives and any connections to broader threats.
For now, the swift response by Capitol Police has prevented what could have been a devastating incident, but the situation serves as a stark reminder of the dangers facing public officials and national landmarks.
As Americans await the peaceful transfer of power, incidents like these highlight the fragile balance between public access and security in a politically charged climate.
