U.S. lawmakers voice concerns over threats

Bricks have been hurled through Democrats’ windows, a propane line was cut at the home of a congressman’s brother, and lawmakers who voted for a federal health care bill have received obscenity-laced phone threats in the days before and after passage of the sweeping legislation.

The FBI is investigating the vandalism and threats, which include the shattering of windows at four Democratic offices in New York, Arizona and Kansas. At least 10 members of Congress have reported some sort of threat.

The brick tossed through the window of a county Democratic Party office in Rochester, N.Y., over the weekend had a note attached that said: "Extremism in defense of liberty is no vice,” roughly quoting 1964 Republican presidential nominee Barry Goldwater.

Rep. Louise Slaughter, a New York congresswoman whose window was smashed with a brick, accused the Republican leadership of failing to denounce attacks made against lawmakers who supported the legislation.

The FBI and Capitol police were briefing Democratic lawmakers Wednesday on how to handle the perceived security threats, said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md.

Those who feel they are at risk will be "getting attention from the proper authorities,” Hoyer said, declining to say whether any are receiving extra security. Normally only those in leadership positions have personal security guards.