Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) introduced the Zero Tolerance for Political Assassins Act on May 7, a bill that would require a sentence of 25 years to life in prison for anyone who attempts to assassinate federal politicians.
The legislation addresses concerns about political violence and its impact on democracy. The bill aims to deter attacks against high-ranking officials and uphold the rule of law in the United States.
According to Carter, “Political violence erodes the very fabric of our democracy. In the United States, change is enacted by the people for the people. When radicalized individuals escalate hatred toward others over differing ideologies, they trample on the rights that every American exercises at the ballot box.” Carter also said, “The American people spoke in November 2024, electing Donald J. Trump with a mandate to deliver a safer and more prosperous nation. Yet recently, at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, the President was the target of a third assassination attempt. The cowards who carry out acts of political violence are the greatest threats to democracy. My bill ensures they face proper justice and the full weight of the law.”
The proposed act would apply to individuals targeting positions such as President, Vice President, Presidential Staff, Cabinet Members, Supreme Court Justices, and Members of Congress.
Carter has served as U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 1st district since replacing Jack Kingston in 2015,according to his official website. He has won several general elections: defeating Patti Hewitt in 2024 with 62% of votes; Wade Herring in 2022 with just over 59%; Joyce Griggs in 2020 with more than 58%; Lisa Ring in 2018 with nearly 58%; and Brian Reese in his first congressional race in 2014 with almost 61%.
Observers will be watching how Congress responds to this legislative proposal aimed at curbing political violence.
