Washington — One month after a violent and allegedly politically motivated attack at the office of a U.S. congressman, injured staff members are in the process of recovery and office safety enhancements have been completed. However, there are lingering concerns about whether Congress is taking sufficient measures to protect its members and their aides from future targeting or assaults.
The May 15 attack on Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly’s Virginia district office resulted in the charging of Xuan Kha Pham, who allegedly struck one of Connolly’s staffers with a baseball bat. Pham also confronted an intern during her first day on the job at the reception desk. It is alleged that the suspect specifically asked for Connolly by name while in the office.
CBS News reports that despite the incident, the intern has bravely returned to work for the summer, highlighting the resilience and unity of the affected staff. Congressman Connolly expressed his pride in his team’s determination and commitment to recovery.
A spokesperson for the congressman stated that their office has implemented additional security upgrades to prioritize staff protection while maintaining their ability to serve constituents in Fairfax, Virginia.
However, following the attack, some members of Congress questioned whether they are allocating enough funding to prevent similar incidents in other communities. Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat urged for discussions regarding additional resources for the district office security program, emphasizing the need for expansion.
On Wednesday, a House panel is scheduled to address legislation regarding security operations for congressional offices, including funding for security enhancements in members’ hometown offices and residences. The allocation of funds will likely be a topic of debate and discussion.
House Sergeant at Arms William McFarland, in a strategic plan released to members, listed the enhancement of security and emergency preparedness in local district offices as a priority.
In the Senate, Sergeant at Arms Karen Gibson has launched an initiative to strengthen security for senators and their home state staff. A “demonstration space” has been established in the Russell Senate Office Building to showcase technology for office security upgrades. The space includes displays of “duress buttons,” mail screening devices, and safety glass for reducing the risk of attacks.
CBS News has learned that at least 50 out of 100 senators have accepted newly issued satellite phones, providing emergency communications in the event of large-scale attacks or telecommunication failures.
Following the attack at Connolly’s office, Xuan Kha Pham has been charged with assault of a U.S. employee causing bodily injury. The case is currently pending in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, with no listed court date available.
When asked about the impact of the attack on his staff, Congressman Connolly commended his team’s resilience, dedication to public service, and determination to represent their constituents.
Several months earlier, another attack raised concerns about the safety of family members and colleagues of Congress members. Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was targeted in their home by an individual wielding a hammer. The attacker, David DePape, allegedly expressed political retribution towards Nancy Pelosi. DePape has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including attempted murder.
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