Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley has called for the Senate Homeland Security Committee to summon Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and FBI Director Christopher Wray for testimony following a terrorist-linked attack in New Orleans. The incident, which occurred on New Year's Eve, resulted in ten deaths and numerous injuries when a truck was driven into a crowd on Bourbon Street.

In his letter to Chairman-elect Rand Paul, Senator Hawley emphasized the need for accountability from the Biden Administration, stating, "They must give a full account of this attack and any departmental failures related to the incident." He highlighted that both Mayorkas and Wray have been absent from hearings for months and argued that their testimony is necessary before they leave office.

The attack is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism. Local law enforcement described it as "very intentional behavior," while New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell referred to it as a "terrorist attack." Reports suggest possible improvised explosives were found at the scene.

Senator Hawley criticized policy changes under the Biden Administration, claiming they have compromised public safety. He urged for immediate action once Congress reconvenes next week, stressing that "the American people remain at risk unless the outgoing administration is held to account."

Hawley's letter posed several questions to be addressed by DHS and the FBI regarding the perpetrator's background and motives. He expressed his commitment to working with Chairman-elect Paul in restoring public trust through oversight in the upcoming 119th Congress.