Rep. Tony Gonzales Calls for Harsh Sentence in Pipe Bomb Suspect Case

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) delivered comments this week regarding the investigation into Brian Cole Jr., who was arrested and charged by the Justice Department for allegedly planting pipe bombs near the headquarters of major political parties on January 5, 2021 — one day before the U.S. Capitol was attacked during a peaceful protest.

In an interview with National Report, Gonzales stated that he looks forward to Cole receiving severe consequences if convicted, emphasizing no leniency should be considered for those who threaten democratic institutions. The suspect allegedly planted two pipe bombs near the headquarters of the Republican and Democratic national committees in Washington, D.C., on January 5th.

Gonzales expressed confidence in the FBI’s handling of the investigation, suggesting that the renewed activity indicates the agency is now fulfilling its duties effectively. He also stressed the need for transparency as he anticipates additional information from upcoming FBI briefings.

The congressman called Cole’s actions a clear case of domestic terrorism and noted concerns raised by Donald Trump Jr., linking it to broader worries about political violence in America. Gonzales highlighted that Cole poses an unacceptable threat to the nation, specifically those individuals attempting to disrupt its political system, while stressing that this incident targeted both major parties.

Regarding his bipartisan bill, PEARL Act, which addresses personnel issues at Customs and Border Protection by allowing them to use trained support dogs from local shelters, Gonzales confirmed strong support among colleagues. He believes the measure will help reduce pressure on overwhelmed animal shelters, improve morale for agents facing work-related stress or burnout, and expects it to pass both in committee and with presidential approval.

He also expressed optimism about President Trump’s administration being more decisive than the previous one in addressing such threats.
Rep. Gonzales Calls for Severe Punishment of Pipe Bomb Suspect

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) has voiced strong support for a severe sentence to be sought for Brian Cole Jr., who was charged by the Justice Department this week with allegedly planting pipe bombs near the headquarters of major political parties in Washington, D.C., on January 5th — the eve of the January 6th Capitol attack.

In an interview, Gonzales stated he looks forward to seeing Cole brought to justice without any leniency. He emphasized that “there is no room for someone who tries to harm our political system.”

Gonzales acknowledged concerns raised by Donald Trump Jr., saying they reflect broader frustrations among Americans regarding this case. Cole’s actions were described as an attempt to stir chaos in American politics.

The congressman believes the current administration has handled threats more decisively than its predecessor, contrasting their approaches while expressing hope for progress on the bipartisan PEARL Act, which allows Border Patrol agents to adopt dogs from local shelters to address personnel morale and reduce pressure on overwhelmed animal shelters. He expects the bill’s passage in committee and full approval by President Donald Trump.