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Reactions to U.S. Capitol breach during electoral vote count (January 6, 2021)

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Breach of U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021
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Breach of U.S. Capitol during electoral vote count (January 6, 2021)
Aftermath of the January 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol
Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol
Reactions to U.S. Capitol breach
Events in state capitals during electoral vote certification
Counting of electoral votes (January 6-7, 2021)
Impeachment of Donald Trump, 2021

Congress convened a joint session on January 6, 2021, to count electoral votes by state and confirm the result of the 2020 presidential election. Several pro-Donald Trump demonstrations took place in Washington, D.C., that day to protest the 2020 presidential election results. Thousands of Trump supporters went to the Capitol Building as Congress was in its joint session, and both chambers recessed as the group breached the Capitol and the building went into lockdown. Click here to learn more about the events of January 6.

During the breach and in the days that immediately followed, Trump made several statements about the event, and some members of Congress and governors called for Trump to resign or be removed from office. Representatives introduced resolutions on the 25th Amendment and impeachment in the House. Some members of Congress also called on other members to resign. Several Cabinet members and law enforcement officials resigned.

This page covers reactions to the events through January 11, 2021, when three U.S. representatives introduced a resolution to impeach Trump for incitement of insurrection. Click here for further coverage.

Statements from Trump

January 6, 2021

Statements Trump made during the Capitol breach are presented below in timeline format. The Capitol breach began around 2:15 p.m. ET on January 6. For a full timeline of events on January 6, click here.

  • 2:38 p.m. Trump tweeted, "Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!"[1]
  • 3:13 p.m. Trump tweeted, "I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!"[1]
  • 4:20 p.m. Trump posted the following video to supporters on Twitter:
Trump statement, January 6, 2021
  • 6:25 p.m. After the Capitol Building was secured on January 6, Trump tweeted, "These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election victory is so unceremoniously & viciously stripped away from great patriots who have been badly & unfairly treated for so long. ... Go home with love & in peace. Remember this day forever!"

January 7, 2021

Through a spokesperson after his social media accounts were locked, Trump said on January 7, "Even though I totally disagree with the outcome of the election, and the facts bear me out, nevertheless there will be an orderly transition on January 20th. I have always said we would continue our fight to ensure that only legal votes were counted. While this represents the end of the greatest first term in presidential history, it’s only the beginning of our fight to Make America Great Again!"[2]

Trump's spokesperson posted a video of Trump saying, "America is and must always be a nation of law and order. The demonstrators who infiltrated the Capitol have defiled the seat of American democracy. To those who engaged in the acts of violence and destruction, you do not represent our country. And to those who broke the law, you will pay. We have just been through an intense election, and emotions are high. But now tempers must be cooled and calm, restored."[3]

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram lock Trump's accounts

Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram locked Trump's accounts on January 6. The locks were initially temporary. Facebook and Instagram extended them indefinitely, while Twitter permanently suspended Trump's account.[4]

Facebook and Instagram CEO Mark Zuckerberg said, "We believe the risks of allowing the President to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great."[5]

A statement from Twitter read, "After close review of recent Tweets from the @realDonaldTrump account and the context around them — specifically how they are being received and interpreted on and off Twitter — we have permanently suspended the account due to the risk of further incitement of violence."[6]

Resignations

The following Cabinet members and law enforcement officials resigned as a result of the riot on January 6.

Elaine Chao

  • Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao shared her letter of resignation on Twitter on January 7. Chao is married to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

Betsy DeVos

  • Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced her resignation on January 7. DeVos wrote in her letter of resignation to Trump:[7]
“

We should be highlighting and celebrating your Administration's many accomplishments on behalf of the American people. ... Instead, we are left to clean up the mess cause by violent protestors overrunning the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to undermine the people's business. That behavior was unconscionable for our country. There is no mistaking the impact your rhetoric had on the situation, and it is the inflection point for me.

Impressionable children are watching all of this and they are learning from us. ... I believe we each have a moral obligation to exercise good judgement and model the behavior we hope they would emulate. They must know from us that America is greater than what transpired yesterday.

To that end, today I resign from my position effective Friday, January 8, in support of the oath I took to our Constitution, our people, and our freedoms. Holding this position has been the honor of a lifetime, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve America and her students.[8]

”

Law enforcement officials

  • Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Michael Stenger and House Sergeant-at-Arms Paul Irving resigned on January 7.[9] The sergeant-at-arms is the chief law enforcement officer of each chamber.[10]
  • U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund announced on January 7 he would resign at the end of the month.[11]

Reactions from members of Congress

Reactions from Senate members

  • NBC News reported that 37 senators had called for Trump's impeachment, removal, or resignation as of the morning of January 8. All but two were Democrats—Sens. Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Angus King (Maine), who caucus with Democrats.[12]

Senate

Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va.

Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass.

Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.

Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich.

Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii

Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.

Sen. Bob Casey, D-Penn.

Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.

Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn.

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.

Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.

Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del.

Sen. Angus King, I-Maine

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.

Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H.

Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md.

Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn.

Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H.

Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.

Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.

Sen. John Hickenlooper, D-Colo.

Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M.

Below, we highlight statements from Senate leaders and from senators who played a prominent role in the electoral vote-counting process.

“

This afternoon, Congress began the process of honoring the will of the American people and counting the Electoral College votes. We have fulfilled the solemn duty every four years for more than two centuries. Whether our nation has been at war or at peace, under all manner of threats, even during an ongoing armed rebellion and the Civil War, the clockwork of our democracy has carried on.

The United States and the United States Congress have faced down much greater threats than the unhinged crowd we saw today. We've never been deterred before, and we will not be deterred today. They tried to disrupt our democracy. They failed. They failed. They failed to attempt to obstruct the Congress.

This failed insurrection only underscores how crucial the task before us is for our republic. Our nation was founded precisely so that the free choice of the American people is what shapes our self-government and determines the destiny of our nation – not fear, not force, but the peaceful expression of the popular will.[8]

”
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said on January 7, "What happened at the U.S. Capitol yesterday was an insurrection against the United States, incited by the president. ... This president should not hold office one day longer. The quickest and most effective way – it can be done today – to remove this president from office would be for the vice president to immediately invoke the 25th Amendment. ... If the vice president and the Cabinet refuse to stand up, Congress should reconvene to impeach the president."[14]
  • Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) was one of the seven senators who voted in agreement with the objection to Pennsylvania's electoral votes once the Senate reconvened on January 6. He said on January 7, "The president's language and rhetoric often goes too far. I think, yesterday in particular, the president's language and rhetoric crossed the line and it was reckless. I disagree with it, and I have disagreed with the president's language and rhetoric for the last four years. ... If you looked to what I have said, you will not find me say the same language or rhetoric."
In response to the Texas Democratic Party's and other Democrats' call for Cruz to resign, Cruz said, "I do think it's really cynical for them to be trying to take advantage of what was a tragic event that occurred yesterday in Washington—the terrorist attack on the Capitol."[15]
  • Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) also voted in agreement with the objection to Pennsylvania's electoral votes when the Senate reconvened. He said, "I hope that this body will not miss the opportunity to take affirmative action to address the concerns of so many millions of Americans to say to millions of Americans tonight that violence is never warranted, that violence will not be tolerated, those that engage in it will be prosecuted but that this body will act to address the concerns of all Americans across the country. We do need an investigation into irregularities, fraud, we do need a way forward together. We need election security reforms."[16]
On January 7, Hawley said in a statement, "I will never apologize for giving voice to the millions of Missourians and Americans who have concerns about the integrity of our elections. That’s my job, and I will keep doing it."
  • Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), who as the assistant Democratic leader is the third-ranking Senate Democrat, called on Cruz and Hawley to resign on January 8. She said, "At the end of the day, our job is to keep this country a democracy where voices win, not brute force. Any senator who stands up and supports the power of force over the power of democracy has broken their oath of office. Senators Hawley and Cruz should resign."[17]

Reactions from House members

Below, we highlight statements from House leaders and actions taken by House members in response to the riot.

  • House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said on January 7, "I join the Senate Democratic leader in calling on the vice president to remove this president by immediately invoking the 25th amendment. If the vice president and Cabinet do not act, the Congress may be prepared to move forward with impeachment. That is the overwhelming sentiment of my caucus, and the American people, by the way."[18]
  • House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) shared a statement saying he opposed impeachment. Introducing his statement, he said, "Impeaching the President with just 12 days left will only divide our country more. I've reached out to President-elect Biden today & plan to speak to him about how we must work together to lower the temperature & unite the country to solve America’s challenges."[19]
  • Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) introduced a resolution on January 11 calling on Vice President Mike Pence (R) to convene the Cabinet to declare Trump unfit to serve as president under the 25th Amendment.[20] The resolution required unanimous consent to pass without a full vote.[21] Rep. Alex Mooney (R-W.Va.) objected to the resolution, stating, "Speaker Pelosi should not attempt to adopt a resolution of this magnitude without any debate on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives."[22] Pelosi announced the resolution would go to a full vote.[23] View the resolution below.

Reactions from governors

This section includes statements from governors following the riot.

“ This is not a time to be finger-pointing. ... The time now is to be calm and have stability. And the Electoral College is the hallmark of our smooth transition. My focus is on moving forward calmly, with stability, and I urge all Alabamians and Americans to do likewise.[24][8] ”
“ I’m deeply saddened & appalled to see the violence at the U.S. Capitol today. Acts of violence have no place in our great country. Republicans are the party of law & order. These few extremists do not represent our values. Rose & I are praying for the safety of those in the area, in the Capitol, as well as for the many peaceful rally attendees, most especially for our brave women & men in uniform. We settle our disputes through dialogue not violence.[25][8] ”
“ In America, we practice peaceful transitions of power. We respect the law and law enforcement. The scene at the United States Capitol right now is wrong and has no place in our form of government. All should denounce, and it should end now.[26][8] ”
“ I want this administration to end. That was chaotic, he mislead his supporters. It hurt us and sure he can make that judgment but he’s not going to and so we’ve got to figure out how to move forward. ... This was a terrible exercise of judgment and exercise in misleading his supporters, and the result of it is the riots in the nation’s Capitol, destruction of property and loss of life and a black mark on our democracy. Those are serious actions on his part, serious repercussions for our nation.[27][8] ”
“ Peaceful protest is an important mechanism of our democracy but what we are witnessing in our nation’s Capitol building is reprehensible and an outright assault to our democracy and Democratic institutions. ... President Trump must call for an end to this escalating situation, acknowledge the will of the people to bring President-Elect Biden to the White House and move immediately to a peaceful transition of power.[28][8] ”
“ To see those broken windows, the barricaded furniture, people scaling the walls, was really a sad moment in our history.[29][8] ”
“ Mr. President, words have consequences, and your angry words have dangerous consequences. We’re looking at the TV right now. Demand that your agitators stand down, and respect the peaceful transfer of power.[30][8] ”
“ Congress has a constitutional responsibility to uphold the will of the American people and approve the election of a President. The lawless mob at the Capitol today attempted to violently interfere in that constitutional process. Their actions were a disgrace and an affront to our democracy. We had a free and fair election. It’s time to move forward, respect the will of American voters, and go to work on the very serious challenges we face as a country.[31][8] ”
“ Violence or rioting of any kind is unacceptable and the perpetrators must face the full weight of the law. The Capitol Police do an admirable job and I thank them for their hard work.[32][8] ”
“ That has been a disgrace and quite honestly un-American. ... In Georgia we had peaceful protests all summer long, allowing people to let their voice be heard on an array of issues we had going on in our state and country. We certainly did not allow anarchy and we will not allow that now in the state of Georgia.[33][8] ”
“ The news that protestors have stormed the U.S. Capitol is extremely distressing. It is an assault on democracy and everything this country stands for. The vote certification process and peaceful transition of power must be completed as required by the United States Constitution, following a free and fair election. In Hawai‘i, State Sheriffs -Department of Public Safety, are working with the Honolulu Police Department to protect the Hawai‘i State Capitol if necessary.[34][8] ”
“ The violence at the U.S. Capitol is inexcusable and must stop. In Idaho, we uphold the tenets of the First Amendment, but what we are seeing in D.C. is not peaceful expression. Idahoans stand up for law enforcement and respect the rule of law. I am praying for safety of those at the U.S. Capitol and for order to be restored immediately.[35][8] ”
“ As the heart of our democracy was under siege and blood was literally being spilled in our most sacred halls, Donald Trump was praising the attackers. There are real questions about what efforts the President made to protect our Congress or what obstructions he committed that has prevented the ending of the siege.

There is no doubt in my mind that his efforts to encourage a coup represent high treason to this democracy, our Constitution and all Americans. He poses a danger to our nation. He must be impeached and removed from office immediately.[36][8]

”
“ It’s both saddening and sickening to watch a mob devolve into thinking their rules would ever replace the rule of law. I unequivocally condemn the violence at the U.S. Capitol that we are now witnessing. Passion, patriotism and love for our nation should always and only be expressed in constructive ways that seek to honor the ideals on which our nation was founded. Any means of violence runs counter to who we are and is never acceptable.[37][8] ”
“ Standing with and praying for the brave men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police and all who have been endangered by the violence and unrest happening at our nation’s capital. This behavior is unacceptable and not who we are as Americans.[38][8] ”
“ Acts of violence or destruction – especially when targeted at law enforcement and members of the press - is unacceptable. Now more than ever, we need to come together and fight this virus – not each other.[39][8] ”
“ Today is a tough day for our country. Domestic terrorists have stormed and infiltrated our U.S. Capitol building, a building that stands for American democracy. And yes, I called them domestic terrorists. When you try to use force, intimidation, to get what you want, to overthrow an election, to stop the business of Congress, yes, you are acting as a domestic terrorist. ... Today there cannot be Democrats or Republicans, there can only be Americans. And all of us must condemn this in no uncertain terms.[40][8] ”
“ It is sad and tragic what is happening in Washington right now.[41][8] ”
“ “Like many Americans, I condemn the violence and destruction occurring at the U.S. Capitol. Our country has conducted a free and a fair election in which the American people have spoken, and now the peaceful transfer of power – a hallmark of our democracy – must proceed. I do not believe what we are seeing today is sanctioned by most Americans; nor do I believe it represents the true character of the American people. But it is a clear and troubling reflection of our fractured nation. The violence must end, and all leaders, of every political stripe, including the President, must forcefully denounce these actions and defend our democracy. All Americans, regardless of politics, must work to restore the honor, decency, and integrity that is truly reflective of the character of our people and our country.[42][8] ”
“ What we saw in the nation's Capitol was not just an attack on people's representatives, or historic buildings and our law enforcement. It was an attack on the rule of law, the foundations of self-government and who we are as Americans.[43][8] ”
“ I think people should pursue whatever they believe will make [it] possible — through the most expeditious way possible — for the president to step down and for the vice president to assume the powers of the office for the next 14 days so that an orderly transition can take place. ... The whole thing makes me sick. Yesterday’s riot was a dark moment for our country, made even more depressing by the president’s role leading up to it and his wholly inadequate response to the violence.[44][8] ”
“ It's really difficult to articulate just how unprecedented, how dangerous and how outrageous this is. It's shocking to the conscience. It undermines our faith in democracy. This is not a game. Our American democracy is bigger and more important than any individual.[45][8] ”
“ Today, it wasn’t a foreign nation that seized the capitol building and attempted an insurrection. It was citizens of our own country, incited by our president and enabled by many political leaders, who made a direct assault on our democracy. ... We must recognize that democracy cannot be taken for granted. We ask our soldiers to endanger their lives to defend our democracy abroad—we all have a duty to protect it here at home. That means toning down our rhetoric, bridging divides, and upholding our Democratic ideals.[46][8] ”
“ Political violence is always wrong. Law and order must win over mob rule. The country we love desperately needs prayer and God's protection.[47][8] ”
“ People have a right to peacefully protest, but protestors who violate the law must be held accountable. The lawlessness and rioting witnessed today in our nation’s Capitol are unacceptable. We as a nation are better than this.[48][8] ”
“ Yesterday was a sad, tragic day for America. ... Our U.S. Capitol was under siege; our very democracy was under siege. ... I was pleased that the president said, ‘Go home.' ... There probably could have been a stronger statement made there. I’m glad it’s over, and I look forward to a peaceful transfer of power on the 20th of this month.[49][8] ”
“ What is happening at the U.S. Capitol is unacceptable. I condemn the violence in the strongest possible terms. Peaceful protest is the American way. Violence and destruction of property are not. I encourage the violent protestors in D.C. to leave and go home.[50][8] ”
“ The chaos that erupted in the United States Capitol was the opposite of patriotic -- it was undemocratic and un-American. I am thankful for the safety of Nevada's federal delegation, all congressional members and staff, and law enforcement officers.[51][8] ”
“ What is going on at the United States Capitol Building is not Democracy, it is chaos and violence. It is un-American, and must stop immediately.[52][8] ”
“ Our republic is built on the principles of democracy, peace, and the right of the American people to freely choose their leaders. ... The brave men and women of our National Guard will be deployed in order to preserve these sacred principles. May God Bless America and our brave men and women in uniform.[53][8] ”
“ This is beneath the United States of America. It is not who we are. I am sickened beyond words by the scenes from Washington, D.C., this afternoon. It is nothing less than domestic terrorism, enacted in an effort to overturn a free and fair election. ... The president of the United States has stoked this anti-democracy sentiment. He has fanned flames of hatred and violence. His reprehensible attacks on the rule of law and American democracy have directly inspired this unconscionable display of disorder and mob mentality. He is responsible. He has always been responsible. His conspiracies and threats endanger the very fabric of our nation. He – and every one of his enablers – must be held accountable. The president must immediately join leaders across the political spectrum in calling for an end to the chaos he has caused.[54][8] ”
“ The cornerstone of our democracy is the peaceful transfer of power. We must call this what it actually is: a failed attempt at a coup. This is the final chapter of an incompetent, cruel, and divisive administration that has trampled on the Constitution and the rule of law at every turn, and we won't let President Trump, the members of Congress who enable him, or the lawless mob that stormed our nation's Capitol steal our democracy. The election results are clear and the will of the American people will be carried out.[55][8] ”
“ This president has betrayed our country and is therefore unfit to lead it. He should resign or be removed from office.[56][8] ”
“ We support the right to peacefully protest. The violence happening at our nation’s Capitol is reprehensible and does not represent American values, and needs to stop immediately.[57][8] ”
“ I just couldn’t believe what I saw. ... It was just shocking. ... This was a direct attack on our Constitution, a direct attack on everything we hold dear in this country, including the rule of law.[58][8] ”
“ I have always protected and supported the right for peaceful demonstration but we cannot stand for violence. What is happening at the U.S. Capitol right now is unacceptable and needs to stop immediately. This is not what America is about. [59][8] ”
“ Violence answers nothing, solves nothing, offers nothing. Today, we saw attacks on democracy, the Constitution, and the American people. This is not who we are. We will not be intimidated. In Oregon, we will keep working together to build a more just future.[60][8] ”
“ Today, President Trump’s supporters attempted a coup. This was the direct result of a deliberate disinformation campaign by Republicans from the President down to legislators in Pennsylvania. They lied about the results of the election. They lied about voter fraud. They lied about my administration and other governors. They lied about the administration of the election here in Pennsylvania and across the country. On November 3, we had a remarkably well-run election despite historic challenges. ... We have had a peaceful transfer of power every election cycle in our nation’s history but because of the actions of Republicans, we can no longer say that. I am disgusted but I will keep fighting to make our democracy stronger.[61][8] ”
“ Praying for the safety of members of Congress, staff, Capitol Police, media, first responders, and all public servants at the Capitol, and for a peaceful end to this assault on our democracy.[62][8] ”
“ It is hard to believe what we are seeing at our beloved Capitol. We should be alarmed - but also deeply saddened. Protest is honored, but violence cannot be tolerated. Those who believe in America should leave the building immediately. The rule of law must prevail.[63][8] ”
“ We are all entitled to peacefully protest. Violence is not a part of that. What’s happening in the Capitol right now must stop.[64][8] ”
“ The violence happening in our nation’s capitol is inexcusable and an affront to our founding principles and freedoms. I stand with our Tennessee delegation that order must be restored immediately and thank law enforcement for their professionalism.[65][8] ”
“ Peaceful protest is a core tenant of the United States Constitution; violence and mayhem are not. ... The violence and mayhem must stop. America is founded on the rule of law, and the law enforcement officers working to restore order at the United States Capitol must be heeded.[66][8] ”
“ I’m deeply troubled at the chaos, the devastation, the cowardly acts of violence that we are seeing in our nation’s capital on this day. As patriots, as Utahns, as Americans, as people who care deeply about each other, and care deeply about this great nation, I urge you to stand up and speak out against the violence, against the terrorists, against the evil we have seen in our nations capitol today. ... We are better than this in Utah. We are better than this in America. We have been an example to the rest of the world when it comes to our elections when it comes to the way that we protest when it comes to the freedoms and the freedoms and liberties that we so enjoy.[67][8] ”
“ This is a very disturbing time for our nation. What we are seeing today at the U.S. Capitol is not a peaceful protest – it is an unacceptable attack on our democracy. ... The fabric of our democracy and the principles of our republic are under attack by the President. Enough is enough. President Trump should resign or be removed from office by his Cabinet, or by the Congress.[68][8] ”
“ The violence we saw at the U.S. Capitol today was nothing short of an armed insurrection and a humiliating assault on American democracy. The President incited this mob with his refusal to accept the lawful results of a fair and secure election. And the members of Congress who have enabled him—and continue to encourage and praise his efforts—bear just as much responsibility.[69][8] ”
“ On a day in our nation’s capital, where we were to effectuate the most important act of our democracy — the peaceful transfer of power — was forcefully interrupted by those who refuse to accept verdicts of the people, the courts, and the truth itself. ... Those acts of intimidation will not succeed in any way shape or form. ... In D.C., Congress will follow the will of the American people and take yet another step on the long march to protecting people’s right to self-government that has so far succeeded through centuries of frequent tension in our politics.[70][8] ”
“ The violence that we are witnessing right now in Washington, D.C. is absolutely unacceptable and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. People have every right to have their voices heard peacefully. But there is no place in our country for this type of activity.[71][8] ”
“ As are so many Wisconsinites and Americans, I am watching these horrifying events unfold in Washington, D.C. in disbelief. The peaceful transfer of power is at the very heart of our government and our country. This is an attack on our democracy. Period. There must be swift, bipartisan condemnation in no uncertain terms–by the president, by elected officials who’ve sought to sow division and distrust in our election, by elected officials who’ve failed to unequivocally denounce these efforts, all of which fed into today’s events.[72][8] ”
“ The United States of America is resilient. It has weathered many storms because of our form of government and our remarkable Constitution. The violence that we are witnessing in the U.S. Capitol dishonors our legacy and denigrates the “Shining City on the Hill” Ronald Reagan spoke of. Interfering with the peaceful transfer of power is an affront to the very Constitution that has made our country what it is. I believe America will not – cannot – stand for this assault on our democracy. I am heartbroken. I encourage the entire country to follow the example that we have demonstrated here in Wyoming, a proper and peaceful expression of dissent – the cornerstone of free speech.[73][8] ”

See also

Footnotes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 CBS 4 Indy, "Trump says ‘there will be an orderly transition’ as Congress certifies Biden’s electoral win," updated January 7, 2021
  2. ↑ Twitter, "Dan Scavino on January 7, 2021," accessed January 8, 2021
  3. ↑ Twitter, "Dan Scavino on January 7, 2021," accessed January 8, 2021
  4. ↑ USA Today, "President Trump blocked from posting to Facebook, Instagram 'indefinitely,' at least through end of term," January 7, 2021
  5. ↑ USA Today, "President Trump blocked from posting to Facebook, Instagram 'indefinitely,' at least through end of term," January 7, 2021
  6. ↑ Twitter, "Permanent suspension of @realDonaldTrump," January 8, 2021
  7. ↑ The Hill, "Betsy DeVos resigns as Education Secretary," January 7, 2021
  8. ↑ 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 8.12 8.13 8.14 8.15 8.16 8.17 8.18 8.19 8.20 8.21 8.22 8.23 8.24 8.25 8.26 8.27 8.28 8.29 8.30 8.31 8.32 8.33 8.34 8.35 8.36 8.37 8.38 8.39 8.40 8.41 8.42 8.43 8.44 8.45 8.46 8.47 8.48 8.49 8.50 8.51 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
  9. ↑ The Hill, "McConnell ousts Senate sergeant-at-arms after Capitol riots," January 7, 2021
  10. ↑ U.S. Senate, "Sergeant At Arms," accessed January 8, 2021
  11. ↑ The Hill, "Capitol Police chief announces resignation after pro-Trump riots," January 7, 2021
  12. ↑ NBC News, "Over 200 lawmakers are calling for President Trump's removal. Here's who they are," January 8, 2021
  13. ↑ U.S. News & World Report, "READ: Mitch McConnell's Statement to the Senate on the Storming of the Capitol," January 6, 2021
  14. ↑ Fox News, "Schumer: Use 25th Amendment or impeachment to remove Trump after Capitol riot," January 7, 2021
  15. ↑ ABC 13, "Sen. Ted Cruz tells why he still opposed Biden's electoral win in ABC13 exclusive," January 7, 2021
  16. ↑ Fox 2 Now, "Following Capitol Hill riots, Hawley unapologetic for Electoral College challenge," January 7, 2021
  17. ↑ The Hill, "Third-ranking Senate Democrat calls on Hawley, Cruz to resign after Capitol attack," January 8, 2021
  18. ↑ NBC News, "Pelosi joins growing call for Trump to be immediately removed from office, may back impeachment," January 7, 2021
  19. ↑ Twitter, "Kevin McCarthy on January 8, 2021," accessed January 8, 2021
  20. ↑ Speaker.gov, "G:\M\17\RASKIN\RASKIN_002.XML," accessed January 11, 2021
  21. ↑ NBC News, "House Democrats to consider impeachment, 25th Amendment measures," January 11, 2021
  22. ↑ Twitter, "Alex Mooney on January 11, 2021," accessed January 11, 2021
  23. ↑ Speaker.gov, "Pelosi Statement on House Republicans Blocking Unanimous Consent Request," January 11, 2021
  24. ↑ AL.com, "Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey declines to blame President Trump for violence at U.S. Capitol," January 11, 2021
  25. ↑ Twitter, "Governor Mike Dunleavy on January 6, 2021," accessed January 28, 2021
  26. ↑ Twitter, "Doug Ducey on January 6, 2021," accessed January 28, 2021
  27. ↑ KNWA, "Governor Hutchinson speaks on violent protests at Capitol, 'wants this administration to end,'" January 8, 2021
  28. ↑ Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, "Governor Newsom Statement on Protest at U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  29. ↑ KDVR, "Watch: Gov. Polis responds following mob at US Capitol," January 7, 2021
  30. ↑ CT Mirror, "Connecticut officials react to chaos at U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  31. ↑ Facebook, "Governor John Carney on January 6, 2021," accessed January 28, 2021
  32. ↑ Twitter, "Ron DeSantis on January 6, 2021," accessed January 28, 2021
  33. ↑ WSB-TV , "Kemp on violence at U.S. Capitol: 'A disgrace and quite honestly, un-American'," January 6, 2021
  34. ↑ KITV, "Governor Ige releases statement in response to ongoing situation at U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  35. ↑ Twitter, "Brad Little on January 6, 2021," accessed January 31, 2021
  36. ↑ Facebook, "Governor JB Pritzker on January 6, 2021," accessed January 31, 2021
  37. ↑ Indianapolis Star, "What Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said about rioters storming the U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  38. ↑ KCCI, "Reynolds, Loebsack, other Iowa politicians respond to protest at US Capitol," January 6, 2021
  39. ↑ Twitter, "Governor Laura Kelly on January 6, 2021," accessed January 31, 2021
  40. ↑ WLWT, "Kentucky governor calls those who stormed US Capitol 'domestic terrorists,'" January 6, 2021
  41. ↑ KALB, "Louisiana leaders respond to protests at Capitol Building," January 6, 2021
  42. ↑ Office of Governor Janet T. Mills, "Governor Mills Statement on Violence at U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  43. ↑ WBAL TV, "Hogan: 'America would be better off if the president would resign,'" January 7, 2021
  44. ↑ Boston Herald "Charlie Baker says Trump should ‘step down,'" January 7, 2021
  45. ↑ Detroit Free Press, "Michigan leaders denounce US Capitol riot: 'This is happening because of lies,'" January 6, 2021
  46. ↑ WXOW, "Minnesota leaders comment on Capitol rioting," January 6, 2021
  47. ↑ WAPT, "Mississippi leaders speak out about violence at US Capitol," January 7, 2021
  48. ↑ KMBC, "Missouri Gov. Mike Parson reacts to riot at US Capitol," January 6, 2021
  49. ↑ KTVH, "Gianforte: U.S. Capitol protests 'jarring,' 'a sad, tragic day,'" January 7, 2021
  50. ↑ Office of Governor Pete Ricketts, "Gov. Ricketts Comments on Violence at the U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  51. ↑ KVVU, "Nevada Gov. Sisolak issues statement on electoral vote certification, calls Capitol riot 'opposite of patriotic,'" January 7, 2021
  52. ↑ WCAX "Local leaders react to Capitol Hill chaos," January 6, 2021
  53. ↑ northjersey.com, "NJ sends state police and National Guard to DC in wake of pro-Trump riot," January 7, 2021
  54. ↑ Office of the Governor, "Governor issues statement on rioters at U.S. Capitol," January 6, 2021
  55. ↑ WHAM, "Gov. Cuomo calls rioters actions at U.S. Capitol 'failed coup attempt,'" January 6, 2021
  56. ↑ Twitter, "Roy Cooper on January 7, 2021," accessed January 8, 2021
  57. ↑ KFYR, "Gov. Burgum calls for 'violence' at U.S. Capitol to stop," January 6, 2021
  58. ↑ WTVG, "DeWine calls Capitol riots sad day in American history," January 7, 2021
  59. ↑ News On 6, "Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum, Okla. Gov. Kevin Stitt Release Statements On Capitol Hill Riot," January 7, 2021
  60. ↑ Twitter, "Governor Kate Brown on January 6, 2021," accessed January 31, 2021
  61. ↑ Governor Tom Wolf, "Gov. Wolf Condemns Violence in D.C., Disinformation Campaign that Sparked Riots," January 6, 2021
  62. ↑ WPRI, "Local Democrats, Republicans denounce pro-Trump mob violence at US Capitol," January 6, 2021
  63. ↑ WCSC, "McMaster, other SC leaders react to DC riot at US Capitol," January 6, 2021
  64. ↑ KOTA, "South Dakota lawmakers safe, Noem urges Capitol protests to stop," January 6, 2021
  65. ↑ WVLT, "Gov. Lee calls rioting at US Capitol 'inexcusable,'" January 6, 2021
  66. ↑ News 4 San Antonio, "ABBOTT: 'The violence and mayhem must stop,'" January 6, 2021
  67. ↑ ABC4, "'Speak out against the violence': Newly elected Gov. Cox urges Utahn’s to be an example," January 6, 2021
  68. ↑ Twitter, "Phil Scott on January 6, 2021," accessed January 7, 2021
  69. ↑ WSET, "Gov. Northam releases statement on violence at US Capitol," January 6, 2021
  70. ↑ Washington Governor Jay Inslee, "Inslee addresses Washingtonians following day of violence in both the state and nation's capital," January 6, 2021
  71. ↑ WBOY 12 News, "Gov. Justice, other officials release statements following violence at Capitol," January 6, 2021
  72. ↑ WisPolitics.com "Gov. Evers: Releases Statement on Events in Washington D.C.," January 6, 2021
  73. ↑ KULR-8, "Gov. Gordon releases statement on events in D.C.," January 6, 2021
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