At a Glance
- The U.S. Capitol Police investigated 14,938 threats against Congress in 2025, a record high.
- Cases rose from 9,474 in 2024, showing a continuing upward trend.
- The surge is linked to a “false sense of anonymity online” and a spike in violent political rhetoric.
Why it matters: The growing threat landscape puts lawmakers and staff at increased risk, prompting law-enforcement agencies to expand partnerships and enhance security protocols.
Capitol Police released a new annual report Tuesday that details a sharp rise in threats directed at Members of Congress, their families, staff, and the Capitol Complex. The data show a dramatic increase in the number of cases investigated, with 14,938 incidents in 2025 compared to 9,474 in 2024. The report also highlights a broader trend of escalating political violence across the country.
Rising Threats: 2025 Numbers
The report’s core metric is the count of “concerning statements, behaviors, and communications” that the Capitol Police deemed threatening. In 2025, the agency documented 14,938 such incidents. This figure eclipses the 9,474 cases recorded in 2024 and marks the third consecutive year of growth.
| Year | Investigated Cases |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 7,501 |
| 2023 | 8,008 |
| 2024 | 9,474 |
| 2025 | 14,938 |
The table shows a steady climb each year, with the most recent jump reflecting a heightened climate of hostility.
Factors Behind the Surge
Capitol Police officials said the rise in threats is partly due to “a false sense of anonymity online.” The statement notes that digital platforms can make it easier for individuals to issue threats without immediate consequences.
> “Decreasing violent political rhetoric is one of the best ways to decrease the number of threats across the country,” said a spokesperson for Capitol Police.
The agency’s statement emphasizes that rhetoric can quickly turn into actionable threats, especially when amplified by social media.
Recent Incidents Highlighting Risk
The report also catalogues several high-profile incidents that underscore the danger to elected officials.
- A man lunged at Representative Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and sprayed an unknown substance toward her.
- At the Sundance Film Festival, Representative Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., reported being punched in the face by a man who allegedly told Frost that former President Trump would deport him.
- Former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., received pipe-bomb threats after her split with President Donald Trump.
- Swatting incidents have also increased, targeting lawmakers across the country.
These events illustrate the range of threats, from physical assaults to bomb threats, that Capitol Police must address.
Law Enforcement Response and Partnerships
Capitol Police has formal agreements with law-enforcement agencies in states and congressional districts. The report notes that the number of agreements tripled in 2025, a move aimed at improving coordination.
> “The number of agreements tripled in 2025,” said a Capitol Police official. “We encourage agencies that don’t yet partner with us to do so.”
The agency’s expanded network allows for quicker information sharing and coordinated responses to emerging threats.
Implications for Congressional Security
The escalating threat environment forces lawmakers to reassess security protocols. Capitol Police’s findings suggest that reducing violent rhetoric and fostering stronger law-enforcement collaboration are key strategies.
The report’s data also serve as a warning to Congress about the potential costs of inaction. With threats increasing each year, the agency’s findings underscore the need for continued investment in security measures and public education on the dangers of online harassment.
In addition to the threat data, the report mentions that Democratic Congresswoman Robin Kelly of Illinois introduced three articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Wednesday. The articles allege obstruction of Congress, erosion of public trust, and self-dealing.
While the impeachment filings are separate from the threat report, they illustrate the broader political tensions that may contribute to the hostile climate.
Key Takeaways
- The Capitol Police’s 2025 threat count of 14,938 is the highest on record.
- Online anonymity and violent rhetoric are identified as major drivers.
- Recent violent incidents against lawmakers highlight the immediacy of the risk.
- Tripled agreements with state and district agencies aim to improve response.
- Reducing rhetoric and strengthening partnerships are recommended countermeasures.
These findings paint a stark picture of the challenges facing Congress and the importance of coordinated security efforts.
—
All facts are drawn from the Capitol Police annual report released Tuesday and statements made by Capitol Police officials.
