Pelosi Requests Security On House Floor

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Monday that security is needed for lawmakers as they face an “enemy”.

Her statement came as the Capitol Police Chief said that “vast improvements” are needed to protect the Capitol, including permanent fencing. Such barricades have ringed the complex since the Jan. 6 protest. Many lawmakers have long resisted this as they say it gives the nation’s symbol of democracy the look of a besieged compound.

Pelosi said that more security was needed on the house floor for the enemy inside. She later explained “We have members of Congress who want to bring guns on the floor and have threatened violence on other members of Congress.” Pelosi has not suggested how much money she is requesting for security nor did she give an example of anyone who fits her description.

Lawmakers are legally permitted to carry guns though not on the House and Senate floor. The public is not allowed to carry firearms on Capitol grounds. Members of Congress can keep guns in their offices or transport them on the campus if they’re unloaded and securely wrapped.

National Guard has been in the Capitol since January 6th, as well as other security. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said there is no need for permanent fencing while others request it. It’s likely we see some of the current security continue for the long term but some of it will likely only last temporarily.