A staff member working for U.S. Senator Cory Booker was taken into custody on Monday after being found in possession of a firearm on Capitol grounds, a violation of federal law that prohibits weapons within the restricted perimeter of the legislative complex.
The arrest occurred while Senator Booker was delivering a lengthy address on the Senate floor, holding the chamber for over 17 consecutive hours as part of a protest against pending legislation. The staffer, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, was reportedly stopped during a routine security screening near one of the Senate office buildings.
According to Capitol Police, the firearm was detected during a security check. Officers stated that the individual was cooperative and taken into custody without resistance. Authorities are continuing to investigate how and why the weapon was brought onto the premises, and whether it was registered or legally owned.
Possession of a firearm on Capitol grounds is considered a serious offense under Washington, D.C., and federal regulations, regardless of permits issued by other jurisdictions. Charges are expected to be filed following a review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Senator Booker’s office has not released a formal comment regarding the incident but confirmed that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement. The senator, a Democrat from New Jersey, remained on the Senate floor throughout the arrest and reportedly continued speaking as the situation unfolded nearby.
The timing of the incident has intensified scrutiny, given the senator’s active participation in ongoing legislative debates and heightened tensions surrounding security protocols at the Capitol. Congressional staffers are required to undergo regular security training, and firearms are explicitly banned from being carried on-site by anyone other than law enforcement.
Capitol Police emphasized that no threat was posed to members of Congress or the public, and there were no disruptions to Senate proceedings. However, the arrest has prompted renewed discussion about security awareness among congressional staff and potential consequences for violations of federal firearm laws.
The staffer remains in custody as investigators work to determine intent and review surveillance footage and personnel records. Additional details are expected pending the arraignment and any disciplinary action from Senator Booker’s office.