Rep. Ro Khanna Backs DHS Funding, Draws Line on ICE After WHCD Shooting [WATCH]

Rep. Ro Khanna said Sunday that Congress should continue funding the Department of Homeland Security while maintaining opposition to certain spending related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, as reported by Fox News.

Khanna made the remarks during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” responding to questions about the incident that unfolded overnight at the Washington Hilton.

“Absolutely, we’ve been funding [DHS]. The Democrats have been saying we want to fund DHS,” Khanna said. “We just don’t want to fund ICE agents for raids against American citizens and immigrants in ways that break the law.”

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Authorities said a suspect identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, breached a security checkpoint at the hotel during the event. Law enforcement officials confirmed that Allen was carrying multiple weapons when he was intercepted by Secret Service agents.

During the confrontation, one agent was struck by a bullet but was protected by a ballistic vest. Officials said the agent is expected to make a full recovery.

Khanna condemned the attack and acknowledged the actions of law enforcement officers at the scene.

“It was absolutely horrific,” he said. “I’m so relieved that the president, the First Lady, every administration official, and all the guests are safe. I appreciate law enforcement, particularly the Secret Service agent who was shot, and I hope he makes a full recovery.”

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The incident has prompted renewed discussion among lawmakers about security measures and the broader issue of political violence in the United States. Khanna called for a bipartisan approach to address those concerns.

“We need a bipartisan national commission on political violence in this country,” he said. “We should look at social media, mental health issues, and the impact of our political rhetoric. We need to do something to bring the temperature down.”

Khanna also addressed questions about confidence in the ongoing investigation, expressing support for federal agencies while suggesting potential changes to event security protocols.

“I do believe they are going to conduct a thorough investigation,” he said. He added that security setups at major events may need review, noting that metal detectors are often positioned close to the ballroom rather than at building entrances.

“It has always struck me as a bit odd that the metal detectors are placed just before the ballroom as opposed to the hotel entrance. Perhaps there are things that need to be fixed.”

Officials have said the motive for the attack remains under investigation. The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump addressed the nation after the incident, commending the response by the Secret Service and stating that the White House Correspondents’ Dinner would be rescheduled.

The shooting has drawn attention to ongoing debates over security at high-profile events in Washington, as well as broader policy discussions surrounding federal agencies tasked with national security and immigration enforcement.

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