
The arrest of Ryan English, armed with Molotov cocktails near the U.S. Capitol, unveils a chilling plot against House Speaker Mike Johnson and other high-profile political figures.
Quick Takes
- Ryan English arrested for planning to kill House Speaker Mike Johnson and other political figures
- U.S. Capitol Police thwarted the attack, finding Molotov cocktails and a knife on English
- Incident highlights ongoing security threats faced by political leaders
- House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges in retaining his position amid GOP infighting
- President-elect Trump’s endorsement may help Johnson secure the speakership
Thwarted Attack Raises Alarm
U.S. Capitol Police arrested Ryan English, a Massachusetts man who traveled to Washington, D.C., with the intention of killing House Speaker Mike Johnson and other political figures. English, armed with Molotov cocktails and a knife, turned himself in to a Capitol Police officer, averting a potentially catastrophic attack.
Officers discovered two Molotov cocktails made from Absolut vodka bottles in English’s jacket pockets, along with a folding knife. A subsequent search of his car 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.
English’s original plan included targeting Mike Johnson, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and potentially burning down the Heritage Foundation headquarters. However, upon learning of Scott Bessent’s impending confirmation as Treasury Secretary, English shifted his focus to Bessent.
Ongoing Political Security Threats
This incident underscores the persistent security threats faced by political leaders and the crucial role of the U.S. Capitol Police in safeguarding both high-profile individuals and the public. The swift action taken by law enforcement in this case highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in preventing potential attacks.
“Depose these political offices and send a message” federal prosecutors revealed as English’s apparent motive.
The thwarted attack serves as a stark reminder of the complex and dangerous landscape navigated by political figures daily. It emphasizes the need for advanced security protocols and constant vigilance to protect those in positions of power and influence.
Speaker Johnson’s Political Challenges
While facing external threats, House Speaker Mike Johnson is also grappling with internal political challenges. A small group of right-wing Republicans threatens to block Johnson’s bid to retain the speakership, reminiscent of the prolonged floor fight experienced by his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy.
President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement of Johnson could prove crucial in securing his position. However, some GOP members, including Rep. Thomas Massie, remain skeptical.
“I respect and support President Trump, but his endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan. We’ve seen Johnson partner with the democrats to send money to Ukraine, authorize spying on Americans, and blow the budget.” Rep. Thomas Massie stated.
Johnson needs at least 218 votes to win the speakership, with the GOP holding a narrow 219-215 majority. He has been actively engaging with GOP critics to secure their support, emphasizing the importance of organizing Congress quickly due to national security threats and the need to certify Trump’s election victory.
“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 asserted.
As the House prepares for the upcoming public roll call vote, Johnson remains confident about retaining the gavel. If successful, House Republicans plan to vote on a rules change to make it harder to oust the speaker mid-term, requiring at least nine majority party members to trigger a vote for expulsion.
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