Man attempts to kill Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent with Molotov cocktails
- A Massachusetts man was apprehended outside the Capitol armed with Molotov cocktails and a knife.
- The individual admitted to targeting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent after learning of his Senate confirmation vote.
- This incident raises concerns about security measures in place for public officials and potential risks involved.
On January 28, 2025, a security incident occurred outside the U.S. Capitol in the United States, when a Massachusetts man was arrested after claiming he was armed with Molotov cocktails and a knife. This alarming confrontation prompted a swift response from Capitol Police, who deployed multiple vehicles and bomb disposal units to the scene. The individual, identified in court documents as an assailant who expressed his intent to kill Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, initially had plans targeting other government officials such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson. This shift in focus arose after he learned of Bessent's nomination confirmation for the Treasury position by President Donald Trump, which was being voted on that day by the Senate. The man identified as English approached law enforcement readily admitting his intentions and presented himself for arrest. Upon being apprehended, he revealed that the Molotov cocktails were made with vodka and hand sanitizer, and that he had additional explosives concealed in his vehicle. A search of the car confirmed the presence of vodka and evidence of his planning, including clothing items that suggested he prepared for the occasion. He later expressed delusions that he could reach Bessent by overcoming significant resistance, specifically stating he believed he would have to kill at least three police officers. This incident is particularly concerning given the recent security breaches related to the Capitol, emphasizing ongoing threats to public officials and the heightened state of vigilance prevalent in Washington, D.C. Moreover, the man's state of mind was questioned through a note discovered during the arrest, where he conveyed mixed sentiments, indicating remorse and finality. The event underscores serious issues regarding security measures surrounding governmental figures and the broader implications of political dissent in contemporary society, especially during nomination hearings.