Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Said on Thursday that he “requested and received” the resignation of Senate weapons sergeant Michael Stenger.
Driving the news: Capitol police and security are under heavy criticism over their response to Wednesday’s siege of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Trump.
- The authorities were oppressed by protesters who broke into the Capitol building and headed for the Senate chamber, as well as the offices of some lawmakers. At least four people died after the siege, according to officials.
- On Thursday, Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer (DN.Y.) called for Stenger to resign when Democrats won a majority in the upper house – if Stenger had not already resigned.
The big picture: Arms sergeant Paul Irving gave his resignation, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California) said on Thursday.
What is the next: Deputy weapons sergeant Jennifer Hemingway will serve as an interim weapons sergeant, McConnell said in a statement.
- “I thank Jennifer in advance for her service when we started examining the serious failures that occurred yesterday and we continue and strengthen our preparations for a safe and successful opening on January 20,” said McConnell.
Several lawmakers also swore to investigate the police response to the violent violation of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday.
Go deeper: Biden, activists criticize “double standard” in police response to crowd on United States Capitol