House Democratic Staffer Arrested for Carrying Ammunition to Capitol

story

DEC 3 2024

Above: US Rep. Joe Morelle Image copyright: Tom Williams/Contributor/CQ-Roll Call, Inc. via Getty Imagesstory last updated DEC 4 2024

The Facts

Michael Hopkins, 38, a communications director for US Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY), was arrested Monday after he was found in possession of ammunition while attempting to enter the US Capitol's Cannon House Office Building.
Capitol Police said they discovered four ammunition magazines and 11 rounds of ammunition during an X-ray screening of Hopkins' bag, leading to his immediate arrest.
Hopkins faces charges of unlawful possession of ammunition — including one charge for possession of a high-capacity magazine — despite claiming he forgot the ammunition was in his bag.

The Spin

Republican narrative

This arrest is ironic because Hopkins works for an anti-gun Democrat in an anti-gun city run by Democrats. It's refreshing to see a Democrat facing the consequences of rampant hypocrisy. Unfortunately, a Republican staffer bringing a gun into the Capitol would be facing more scrutiny because of the media's liberal leanings.

PJ Media

Democratic narrative

This isn't a case of political hypocrisy, it's a situation that proves gun laws and basic safety protocols apply to everyone. Having firearms in public spaces — including federal buildings and polling places — is dangerous, and the police should be applauded for catching this staffer red-handed. There's nothing wrong with transparent and strong laws to support public safety.

GIFFORDS