Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell tells Newsmax TV that Washington is a safe city, despite a shooting near the U.S. Capitol on Thursday that killed a woman who tried to ram her car through the gate of two national landmarks and the reported assault of a Republican congressman.
"The Capitol Police did a wonderful job, as they always do, not only of protecting members of Congress but staff and tourists alike," the Kentucky Republican tells Newsmax in an exclusive interview. "They were able to handle this event without injury or loss of life other than to the perpetrator."
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McConnell was referring to an incident outside the U.S. Capitol in which police said that a woman with a year-old girl in her car led authorities on a high-speed car chase from the White House past the Capitol on Thursday afternoon.
The woman was shot to death by police. She attempted to penetrate the security barriers at both national landmarks.
The child survived, and the driver of the car was not immediately identified.
"Another great job," McConnell says. "We're all deeply grateful for their great work in keeping the Capitol and all the people who visit here and work here safe year in and year out."
In addition, Capitol Police are investigating reports that GOP Rep. Sean Duffy of Wisconsin was assaulted Wednesday night in the Longworth House Office Building as he headed to the Capitol for a vote, according to news reports.
"The Capitol Police do a great job of protecting not only members but staff," McConnell tells Newsmax.
Editor's Note:Read the full Newsmax interview with Sen. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and excerpts: