A man armed with Molotov cocktails and knives was arrested near the U.S. Capitol, intending to kill high-profile political figures including House Speaker Mike Johnson.
At a Glance
- Ryan English was arrested by U.S. Capitol Police for planning to kill House Speaker Mike Johnson and other officials
- English traveled from Massachusetts with Molotov cocktails and knives but turned himself in
- He initially targeted Mike Johnson and Pete Hegseth, later shifting focus to Scott Bessent
- The incident highlights ongoing security threats to political figures in Washington, D.C.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges in retaining his position amid GOP infighting
Thwarted Attack Raises Alarm
In a chilling reminder of the ever-present threats to our nation’s leaders, U.S. Capitol Police arrested Ryan English, a Massachusetts man who traveled to Washington, D.C., with the intent to kill House Speaker Mike Johnson and other high-ranking officials. English, armed with Molotov cocktails and knives, ultimately turned himself in to a Capitol Police officer, averting what could have been a catastrophic attack on our democracy.
Upon his arrest, officers discovered the alarming extent of English’s preparedness. “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. A subsequent search of English’s vehicle revealed additional Molotov cocktails and materials, underscoring the gravity of his intentions.
Shifting Targets and Desperate Plans
English’s plan was not static. Initially targeting House Speaker Mike Johnson and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, he later shifted his focus to Scott Bessent, who was set to be confirmed as Treasury Secretary. This change in targets demonstrates the volatile nature of such threats and the need for constant vigilance in protecting our nation’s leaders.
“Kill Scott Bessent,” English declared, according to federal prosecutors, who added that his intent was to “Depose these political offices and send a message.” These chilling words reveal the depth of English’s misguided mission and the potential for violence that lurks beneath the surface of political tensions.
Ongoing Security Challenges
The thwarted attack comes at a time of heightened political tension in Washington, D.C. House Speaker Mike Johnson, already facing challenges in retaining his position, must now contend with this stark reminder of the threats facing political figures. The incident underscores the critical role of the U.S. Capitol Police in safeguarding not only individuals but the very functioning of our government.
“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 said, emphasizing the urgency of moving past internal disputes to address national security concerns.
As the House prepares to vote on Johnson’s speakership, this security breach serves as a sobering backdrop to the political maneuvering. It reminds us that while internal debates are part of our democratic process, external threats require unity and vigilance from all sides of the political spectrum.
