Members of Congress are not invincible. They are human beings, susceptible to vulnerabilities just like anyone else.
Recent incidents have highlighted the vulnerabilities of Congressional figures due to health scares affecting three prominent members.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., experienced a fall during a Senate lunch last week, resulting in injuries. McConnell, who has a history of health issues, was evaluated by medical personnel and advised to rest.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., was hospitalized in Germany after a fall, requiring a hip replacement. She was attending an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.
Senate Chaplain Retired Rear Admiral Barry Black also suffered a health scare, being hospitalized for a subdural hematoma and bleeding on the brain.
Capitol Hill has seen an increase in threats against lawmakers, with U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger reporting a record number of violent threats and “swatting” calls in November.
Lawmakers like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have faced a high number of threats, leading to tragic incidents like a deadly car accident caused by a false threat at her residence.
In a challenging and volatile environment, lawmakers like Rep. Adam Smith have expressed concerns about the rising level of contempt and threats they face.
The reality is that everyone on Capitol Hill is susceptible to vulnerabilities and threats.