‘Insurrection was a turning point' Pa. bill looks to punish political violence with life in prison
PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — A Pennsylvania Representative is looking to fight against political violence with legislation that would allow courts to impose life sentences for those who carry out attacks.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Joshua Siegel (D-Lehigh), argues that democracy is under siege. There has been extreme partisanship and 'inflammatory political rhetoric' that led to increases in threats, harassment and violence toward public officials at all levels of government, Siegel wrote, adding that in recent years there has been an 'alarming' increase in political violence.
The legislation lists incidents such as the shooting of Congressman Steve Scalise, the January 6th insurrection, the vandalism and attack on State Representative Alec Ryncavage's office and the recent arson attack on the Governor's mansion in Pennsylvania as examples of the increase in political violence.
'These acts of extremism have no place in our society, and we must act to protect those who serve the public,' The bill reads. 'The January 6th insurrection was a turning point in our country's history, as we witnessed on live television a deadly mob attack and vandalize our Capitol with the intention of committing violence against members of Congress. The failure to hold accountable and adequately punish acts of terrorism against our government and its officials risks normalizing and encouraging future violence.'
Siegel's legislation aims to address the increase in political violence by allowing courts to impose life sentences without the possibility of parole for those who attack, plot or carry out attacks on public officials in the Commonwealth, if passed. He ended the bill memo by asking his colleagues to 'protect those who serve in public office and defend the integrity of our democratic institutions' and 'protect local and state officials and defend the integrity of our democratic institutions.'
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