
A man armed with Molotov cocktails and a knife was arrested near the U.S. Capitol, thwarting a potential attack on House Speaker Mike Johnson and other political leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Ryan English was arrested for planning to attack House Speaker Mike Johnson and other political figures.
- English possessed Molotov cocktails and a knife when apprehended by U.S. Capitol Police.
- The incident highlights the ongoing threats faced by political leaders and the importance of Capitol security measures.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges in retaining his position amid opposition from some Republican members.
- President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement may help secure Johnson’s speakership.
Thwarted Attack Underscores Security Concerns
U.S. Capitol Police recently arrested Ryan English, a Massachusetts man who traveled to Washington, D.C., with the intent to harm House Speaker Mike Johnson and other political figures. English, armed with Molotov cocktails and a knife, surrendered to authorities before carrying out his planned attack.
Upon searching English, officers discovered two Molotov cocktails made from Absolut vodka bottles in his jacket pockets, along with a folding knife. A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed additional incendiary devices and materials.
“The destructive devices were constructed of 50-milliliter bottles of Absolut brand vodka with a grey cloth affixed to its top. A green BIC brand lighter was also recovered from [his] pants’ pocket” prosecutors stated.
This alarming incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threats faced by political leaders and the critical role played by law enforcement in safeguarding government institutions.
English’s Evolving Plans and Surrender
According to authorities, English initially planned to target Mike Johnson and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as well as potentially attack the Heritage Foundation headquarters. However, upon learning of Scott Bessent’s impending confirmation as Treasury Secretary, English shifted his focus to Bessent.
“Kill Scott Bessent” English reportedly stated, revealing his intentions to authorities.
Realizing the difficulty of reaching his targets, English considered “suicide by cop” before ultimately deciding to turn himself in. He approached a Capitol Police officer, stating, “I’d like to turn myself in.” English now faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds.
Speaker Johnson’s Political Challenges
As House Speaker Mike Johnson narrowly avoided becoming a target of this thwarted attack, he faces political challenges within his own party. A small group of right-wing Republicans threatens to block Johnson’s bid to retain the speakership, echoing the prolonged floor fight experienced by his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy.
“We will get this done. Look, the things that we’re talking about this morning are an illustration that we live in very serious times. We cannot afford any palace drama here. We have got to get the Congress started, which begins tomorrow, and we have to get immediately to work,” Johnson emphasized.
With the GOP holding a narrow 219-215 majority, Johnson needs at least 218 votes to secure the speakership. President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement may prove crucial in rallying support for Johnson among Republican ranks.
Conclusion
The foiled attack on political leaders underscores the importance of robust security measures and vigilant law enforcement at the U.S. Capitol. As Speaker Johnson navigates both external threats and internal political challenges, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the complex security landscape surrounding America’s political institutions.
Sources:
- Lunatic arrested outside Capitol with Molotov cocktails, knives after allegedly threatening to kill Pete Hegseth, Mike Johnson
- Man charged with bringing Molotov cocktails into Capitol intended to kill Johnson, Hegseth and Bessent, police say