July 7, 2023
Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) sent a letter to the Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas, over concerns regarding the distribution of funds through the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grant Program. The letter raises questions about the potential weaponization of the program, demanding to know if taxpayer funds are being used to campaign against political opponents rather than focusing on preventing acts of violence and terrorism. Rep. Langworthy is joined on the letter by Rep. Jeff Duncan (SC-03).
“Through the TVTP grant program, DHS is targeting individuals and groups associated with conservative political ideas and Christianity rather than focusing on preventing actual acts of violence and terrorism,” the Congressmen write in the letter. “This practice undermines the fundamental principles of democracy, which rely on the principles of open debate, freedom of expression, and the protection of diverse political ideologies. In a democratic society, it is crucial to foster an environment that encourages robust discourse and the peaceful coexistence of differing viewpoints.”
In their letter, Congressmen Langworthy and Duncan highlight specific instances where the TVTP grant program seems to target individuals and groups associated with conservative political ideas and Christianity. They raise several important questions to seek clarity on the management, eligibility criteria, oversight mechanisms, and measures in place to ensure unbiased and non-partisan approaches within the TVTP program.
