Capitol Police Arrest House Speaker Mike Johnson’s Chief of Staff for DUI
On Tuesday night, Capitol Police arrested Hayden Haynes, the chief of staff for House Speaker Mike Johnson, for allegedly driving under the influence. Haynes, who has been working with the Louisiana Republican for nearly a decade, was taken into custody about 45 minutes after President Trump’s speech to a joint session of Congress.
The arrest came after a driver backed into a parked vehicle around 11:40 p.m., prompting Capitol Police to respond and arrest the individual for DUI. The law enforcement agency later confirmed that it was Haynes who was arrested.
NBC News first reported Haynes’ arrest, which occurred shortly after Trump’s speech.
Despite the incident, a spokesman for Johnson stated that the House speaker has confidence in Haynes. Taylor Haulsee, the spokesman, mentioned that Johnson has known and worked closely with Haynes for nearly a decade and trusted him to serve as his Chief of Staff throughout his tenure in Congress.
When asked about the incident, Johnson expressed his full faith and confidence in Haynes’ ability to lead the Speaker’s office, citing his esteemed reputation among Members and staff alike.
When questioned by reporters on Capitol Hill, Johnson reiterated his support for Haynes, stating that he has worked with him, trusts and respects him, and has his full faith and confidence in his abilities.
