MADISON, Wis. — A man caused a stir in the Wisconsin Capitol when he illegally entered the building with a handgun and subsequently returned with an assault rifle, according to a spokesperson for the state.
Disturbance at the Governor’s Office
On Wednesday around 2 p.m., a shirtless individual wearing a holstered handgun approached the governor’s office located on the first floor of the Capitol. The man was demanding to see Governor Tony Evers, who was absent at the time of the incident.
Unlawful Open Carry
The man was promptly taken into custody for openly carrying the firearm in the Capitol, which violates state laws. While concealed firearms are allowed if the person possesses a valid permit, the arrested individual did not have a concealed carry permit.
After being booked into the Dane County Jail, the man later posted bail.
Return With an Assault-Style Rifle
Around 9 p.m. the same day, the man returned to the Capitol’s exterior, this time armed with an assault-style rifle. It is worth noting that the building closes to the public at 6 p.m. Once again, he demanded access to see the governor and was taken into custody.
The incident draws attention to the need for strict adherence to firearm regulations within public spaces.
Madison Police Report Incidents of Violence Against Public Officials
Madison police have reported a recent incident involving a man who has been taken into protective custody and transported to a hospital. The individual remains unnamed, and the police department declined to provide further details in response to an email inquiry.
Governor Evers’ office has chosen not to comment on the matter, as the administration typically refrains from discussing security-related concerns.
This occurrence is part of a disturbing pattern of violent threats aimed at public officials. In 2022, Governor Evers, a Democrat, was included on a hit list compiled by a suspected gunman who fatally shot a retired county judge in Wisconsin. The list also featured other notable figures such as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Moreover, Governor Whitmer herself was targeted in a kidnapping plot back in 2020.
Despite this latest incident, no immediate changes are currently planned regarding security measures in the Capitol or for the governor. The Capitol remains open to the public with unrestricted access from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. without the presence of metal detectors.
More News from Wisconsin
In other news from Wisconsin, State Senate Republicans have voted to remove Wisconsin’s nonpartisan elections administrator from their position. This decision has sparked controversy and debate across the state.
Additionally, Governor Evers has firmly rejected a sudden bid by Republican lawmakers to redraw the state’s electoral map and sideline the high court. The governor has labeled this move as “bogus.”
Furthermore, Wisconsin Democrats are defending the April election of a liberal candidate to the high court amid Republican efforts to pursue her impeachment due to her comments on gerrymandering.
The political landscape in Wisconsin remains dynamic and filled with ongoing debates and disputes.
