Jeffries had used the phrase "maximum warfare, everywhere, all the time" when discussing redistricting fights. Authorities say there is no evidence the alleged gunman, identified in reporting as Cole Tomas Allen, was motivated by Jeffries's remarks.
The exchange unfolds as Jeffries campaigns to lead Democrats and potentially become the first Black House speaker. The backdrop includes prior threats against him — including a Jan. 6 rioter later arrested for threatening to kill Jeffries — and Trump's history of urging prosecutions of political foes.