Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) sent a letter to incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune (S.D.) calling for a Senate briefing on the New Year’s Day attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas.
“As the FBI continues to investigate the horrific attack that claimed the lives of 14 innocent victims in New Orleans, as well as the incident involving explosives in Las Vegas, I am writing to request a briefing as soon as possible to ensure that all members of the Senate are fully informed of the ongoing situation, as well as the steps being taken to provide enhanced security for other upcoming high-profile events in the coming weeks,” Schumer began.
Schumer said in his letter that given the seriousness of the attacks and the threat of “copycat actors,” the Senate should be briefed on the scope of the attacks.
As the Capitol prepares to host Trump’s inauguration on January 20, Schumer said he believes the Senate should be briefed on the security measures being taken to protect lawmakers and the public during the high-profile event.
“In light of the attacks on New Year’s Day, I believe a comprehensive briefing on the investigations in New Orleans and Las Vegas, as well as security planning for most upcoming public events at the Capitol, is essential to provide Senators with the information they need to make informed decisions about security police, emergency response, and support for the Capitol complex and affected communities,” Schumer wrote.
Schumer, who is stepping down as Senate leader after Republicans take control, told Thune he was ready to work with him to facilitate the briefings as soon as possible.
“Thank you for considering this important request,” Schumer concluded. “I look forward to working with you in the 119th Congress to ensure the safety and security of the American people.”
The Hill has reached out to Thune’s office for comment.
Schumer’s call for his successor comes after two New Year’s Day attacks left communities reeling.
In New Orleans, a 42-year-old man, Shamsuddin Jabbar, was killed. A pickup truck rammed into crowded Bourbon Street early Wednesday, killing 14 people and wounding many more.
The attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism, with Jabar carrying an ISIS flag and explosives.
Just hours later, a man died in a cyberattack outside President-elect Trump’s Las Vegas hotel. Seven others were injured.
Officials are working to determine if there is any connection between the two incidents.
