The Senate and Assembly both plan to boost security in light of the shootings of two lawmakers and their spouses in Minnesota.
The suspect in the shooting, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, was arrested yesterday and charged with two counts of stalking and two counts of murder, along with two counts of firearm offenses. Boelter allegedly shot and killed former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, while impersonating a police officer. Boelter also allegedly shot state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, who are in recovery.
According to an email statement from the Senate sergeant at arms, that will involve “increased situational awareness practices, strengthened access control points, and updated emergency response protocols.”
“The safety of those who serve, work, and visit the Capitol is my top priority,” Senate Sergeant at Arms Timothy La Sage said. “We remain vigilant and prepared. These enhancements are part of our ongoing commitment to security and public service.”
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The statement also said Senate leadership will continue to work with law enforcement to evaluate risks and make adjustments in real-time.
There will also be more security for the Assembly’s floor session on Wednesday following the shootings, according to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos’ office.
“We have requested an increased security presence for session on Wednesday,” Vos spokesperson Luke Wolff told WisPolitics today.
A spokesperson for the Department of Administration, which oversees Capitol Police, referred WisPolitics to Gov. Tony Evers’ office for questions on increased security this week. A spokesperson for Evers said the administration’s policy is not to share specific security detail logistics, assessments or threats.
Meanwhile, Rep. Angelina Cruz, D-Racine, has decided to reschedule a town hall on education funding in light of the tragedy. Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, and Rep. Tip McGuire, D-Kenosha, were set to attend.
And Rep. Lee Snodgrass, D-Appleton, canceled an event planned for tomorrow because of the events in Minnesota, according to an email obtained by WisPolitics.
“Rep. Snodgrass has chosen to cancel tomorrow’s neonicotinoid information session due to safety concerns and out of respect for those who lost their lives to the unnecessary violence inflicted on our nation’s elected officials over the weekend,” the email said.
Snodgrass’ office declined to comment further on the decision.
