‘Medium level of paranoia’: security concerns still loom on Capitol Hill

Threats to politicians, a strained police force and rising tourist numbers leave many concerned about their safety

As Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez placed personal items on a table before walking through metal detectors and stepping on to the floor of the US House last week the New York Democrat, who has been in Congress since 2019, said bluntly: I have never felt safe here."

Security on Capitol Hill is under strain for both lawmakers and the police officers sworn to protect them, even as they relive the deadly insurrection last year amid the ongoing House January 6 committee hearings.