Congress Tension Increases as Lawmakers Get Closer to Confrontations
Before Thanksgiving, Congress experienced two intense confrontations in a single day. This isn’t the first incident of aggression among lawmakers. School House Rock never covered the concept of Capitol Hill brawls, but it’s becoming a relevant topic.
Just before Thanksgiving, Congress appeared to push boundaries as confrontations almost escalated into physical violence. This is not the first time aggressive behavior between lawmakers has been a gripping concern. Former Speaker John Boehner confessed that Rep. Don Young once held a knife to his neck during a heated debate.
Historically, political violence leads to more violence. The riot on January 6, 2021, still leaves lingering distrust among members. The fear that former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric may worsen political violence cannot be overlooked.
A historian who wrote about the Capitol’s descent into violence preceding the Civil War, Joanne Freeman, expressed her unease. She noted that the recurring recent incidents suggest we no longer live in a time of normal politics.
A Congressman on the House floor restraining another Congressman while their leader walks away, a GOP clash between two lawmakers over the speaker gavel, and a challenge to a fist fight during a Senate hearing are only a few shocking instances. The tense atmosphere between Rep. Mike Rogers and Rep. Matt Gaetz and the confrontation between Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert or the challenge of a physical fight by Sen. Markwayne Mullin. These events have shaken Capitol Hill and the US Congress, reflecting the increasing tensions and divisions among lawmakers.
The incidents between Congress members demonstrate the instability and hostility present, leaving legitimate questions about the future of political violence. The blog post on Business Insider was originally published in response to these concerns, marking a turning point in Congress.
