Schumer: Car attack underscores need for Congress to ‘address security at the Capitol’

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Saturday that the car attack on the Capitol underscores the need for Congress to address security concerns at the complex as lawmakers remain divided over the issue. 

The statement came a day after an attacker rammed a car into a barrier at the Capitol. Capitol Police officer William “Billy” Evans died from wounds he suffered during the attack.

The suspect was shot to death by police after he lunged at officers with a knife.

“Yesterday’s attack at the Capitol, which resulted in the death of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Billy Evans and injured another officer, has only added to the need to address security at the Capitol in a comprehensive way following the insurrectionist attack on January 6,” Schumer said in a statement. 

“Senate Committees are already conducting bipartisan and extensive reviews to ensure the Capitol is as secure as possible while also remaining accessible to the public. We are fully committed to ensuring the Capitol is safe for visitors and all who work here,” he added.

Schumer’s remarks come as lawmakers in both chambers of Congress debate what security measures are necessary to keep the Capitol safe.

Fencing and other blockades were erected around the entire complex after the Jan. 6 riot on Capitol Hill that killed several people, including Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick.

However, members of Congress have demanded answers regarding any intelligence suggesting that the blockades were necessary.

An outer fence stretching blocks away from the Capitol building was taken down last month, but a barrier that closely circles the main building remains standing. 

Officials are still sifting through the events of Jan. 6, but a review conducted by retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré at the appointment of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) recommended that Capitol officials install a permanent fencing system that could be retracted and then erected in emergencies.