Former Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Michael Stenger died this morning. He joined the SAA team in 2011 after a career with the Secret Service and was appointed SAA in 2018.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said Thursday that he has “requested and received” the resignation of Sergeant Major Michael Stanger.
Driving the news: Law enforcement and security agencies on Capitol Hill have come under fire for their response to the siege of the U.S. Capitol building by supporters of President Trump on Wednesday.
The rioters stormed the Capitol and broke into the Senate and the offices of some lawmakers, overwhelming authorities. At least four people died after the siege, according to official figures.
Earlier Thursday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) called for Stenger to be fired if Democrats take control of the upper chamber — if he doesn’t already resign.
The big picture: House Speaker Paul Irving announced his resignation, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Thursday.
Capitol Police Chief Steven Sand will also resign on Jan. 16, a department spokesman said.
What’s next: Deputy Sheriff Jennifer Hemingway will serve as acting sheriff, McConnell said in a statement.
“I thank Jennifer in advance for her service as we begin to investigate yesterday’s critical error and continue to strengthen our preparations for a safe and successful inauguration on January 20,” McConnell said.
Several lawmakers also vowed to investigate law enforcement’s response to the violent destruction of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday.