Lawmakers briefed on New Orleans New Year's Day attack
Share and Follow


() Following a deadly attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day after a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street, lawmakers have been receiving information from the FBI.

Members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation, as well as members of the House Intelligence Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee, heard from the FBI about the investigation into what is being called a terror attack.

Some lawmakers are frustrated by the number of questions that remain unanswered, while others are giving the FBI grace at this early stage.

The New Orleans attack and another incident in Las Vegas, where a Cybertruck exploded in front of a Trump hotel, have led to questions about whether the two attacks are connected, something investigators say they haven’t found any evidence of so far.

Another question is whether suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar was just inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, aka ISIS, or if he actually worked with the terror group to plan the attack.

Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y., told that he understands the FBI is still investigating, but as the work continues, he’s going to expect to hear more answers from the agency.

As a representative from a state that is familiar with dealing with terror attacks, LaLota said he believes that with big events like the Sugar Bowl approaching, people should be alert.

“I come from New York. 9/11 is on many of my constituents’s minds every day, especially when we go to big cities like New York, and we’re always vigilant,” he said. “There’s a saying: ‘If you see something, say something.’ That inspires us to be vigilant, to respect law enforcement, to communicate with law enforcement if something’s out of place and we should always continue to do so.”

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., posted on X, reassuring Americans that people at the Sugar Bowl will be safe.

Added security precautions were already being put in place at the Capitol ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, including extra fencing and a heavier police presence.

The attack could also color how lawmakers are thinking as the new Congress is set to be seated just days after this major terror attack.

That includes pressure from Trump allies to have Congress confirm his nominees more quickly, especially those in national security roles in agencies like the Defense Department and the Department of Homeland Security.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
How to watch the NFL’s Christmas Day games

Stream NFL Christmas Day Games 2023: How to Watch Live and Enjoy the Holiday Action

The NFL is bringing fans a festive treat with three games scheduled…
'Troubling' colorectal cancer complication is highest in those under 50

Alarming Surge: Colorectal Cancer Complications Skyrocket in Under-50s

Disturbing news has emerged in the fight against colorectal cancer. This form…
Iran executes man convicted of spying for Israeli intelligence

Iran Executes Convicted Israeli Spy: Unveiling the High-Stakes Espionage Drama

Iranian authorities have executed a man accused of espionage for Israel’s intelligence…
Brown University custodian told security suspicious man was ‘casing’ building weeks before shooting: report

Brown University Custodian Alerted Security to Suspicious Activity Weeks Before Campus Shooting Incident

A custodian at Brown University reported witnessing the shooting suspect numerous times…
Man rushed to hospital in apparent self-inflicted shooting at Atlanta airport

Individual Hospitalized Following Suspected Self-Inflicted Gunshot Incident at Atlanta Airport

On Sunday afternoon, a shooting incident at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport resulted…
Shooting at an Oklahoma State University residence hall wounds at least 3 people

ICE Agent Opens Fire in Self-Defense After Being Struck by SUV: Investigative Details Unfold

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — In Minnesota’s state capital, a dramatic incident…
Patriots use rally to top Ravens after Lamar Jackson's injury exit

Patriots Mount Comeback Victory Over Ravens Following Lamar Jackson’s Injury Departure

BALTIMORE — The rest of the NFL may have enjoyed a brief…
J.T. Miller set to miss multiple Rangers games with injury

J.T. Miller sidelined for several Rangers games due to injury

NASHVILLE — The Rangers are facing a temporary setback as their captain,…