A Michigan lawmaker is advocating for clarity after Ted Nugent allegedly brought a firearm into a committee hearing at the Capitol in Lansing. State Representative Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) raised concerns with the Michigan State Police (MSP) regarding a potential breach of Capitol safety regulations during the hearing on Wednesday.
According to Rep. Pohutsky, Nugent attended the joint committee session to discuss his experiences as a hunter with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). She noted that it became apparent during the hearing that he had a firearm concealed under his clothing. Concern was heightened after Representative Morgan Foreman (D-Pittsfield Twp.) informed MSP about Nugent’s firearm while the session was ongoing.
Following the alert, MSP confirmed that they were aware of the situation but did not enter the room during the hearing. Pohutsky emphasized that communication with MSP about Capitol safety had been ongoing, particularly after the tragic killing of a Minnesota lawmaker and his wife. She expressed concerns over the apparent lack of response from MSP on the day of the incident, noting that internal security acknowledged that Nugent’s presence with a firearm violated established policy.
The Michigan Capitol Commission instituted a firearm ban in 2023 for the Capitol building, which allows exceptions only for security personnel and lawmakers with valid concealed pistol licenses. After posting a TikTok video about the incident, Pohutsky received a prompt response from MSP, which indicated that the matter was under investigation.
Pohutsky reported that the Capitol’s firearm detection system was functioning properly during Nugent’s entry and did signal the presence of a weapon. However, it appears that the trooper at the entrance did not notice the alert until Nugent had already entered the committee room, allowing him to continue with his testimony.
The MSP later stated that they were evaluating how the alert was missed and are committed to ensuring that lapses like this do not recur.
This incident raises significant questions about security protocols within the Capitol and highlights the need for vigilant enforcement of firearm policies, emphasizing the importance of safety within legislative environments. By addressing this issue, lawmakers can work towards ensuring a safer atmosphere for all employees and visitors at the Capitol.