Speaker Mike Johnson’s Chief of Staff Arrested for DUI After Trump’s Congressional Address

Hayden Haynes, the chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) late Tuesday night after his car struck a Capitol Police vehicle, according to law enforcement sources and Johnson’s office. The incident occurred shortly after President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress, during which Johnson presided over the House floor and sat directly behind the president.

Capitol Police reported that the crash took place around 11:40 p.m., approximately 45 minutes after Trump’s speech concluded. Haynes was arrested and released with a citation to appear in court. In a statement, Capitol Police confirmed the arrest, saying, “A driver backed into a parked vehicle last night around 11:40 p.m. We responded and arrested them for DUI.”

Haynes, a longtime and trusted aide to Johnson, has served as the speaker’s chief of staff since Johnson assumed the role in October 2023. Prior to that, he worked as Johnson’s chief of staff in his personal office from 2017 to 2023 and held various roles under former Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) from 2009 to 2016.

Johnson’s office expressed support for Haynes, with spokesperson Taylor Haulsee stating, “The Speaker is aware of the encounter that occurred last night involving his Chief of Staff and the Capitol Police. The Speaker has known and worked closely with Hayden for nearly a decade and trusted him to serve as his Chief of Staff for his entire tenure in Congress.” Johnson himself reiterated his confidence in Haynes, telling reporters, “I’ve worked with him. He’s trusted and respected. And he has my full faith and confidence.”

The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of law enforcement and prosecutorial decisions in Washington, D.C. While most crimes in the district are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DUI offenses fall under the jurisdiction of the D.C. Office of the Attorney General, led by Brian L. Schwalb. This distinction is notable given the political dynamics surrounding federal and local law enforcement in the capital.

Haynes’ arrest is the latest in a series of incidents involving high-profile political figures and their staff. Last month, Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) faced an arrest warrant over an alleged assault, though the U.S. Attorney’s Office declined to prosecute.

As the legal process unfolds, Johnson’s unwavering support for Haynes underscores the close working relationship between the two. However, the incident raises questions about accountability and the challenges faced by congressional staff in high-pressure roles.

Key Details:

• Incident: Haynes arrested for DUI after hitting a Capitol Police vehicle.

• Timing: Occurred shortly after Trump’s congressional address.

• Response: Johnson and his office expressed full support for Haynes.

• Context: Highlights broader issues of law enforcement and political accountability in D.C.

Haynes’ arrest adds to the ongoing scrutiny of Capitol Hill staff and their conduct, particularly in a politically charged environment.