WASHINGTON – Emotions ran high among lawmakers as they reflected on the events of January 6, 2021, with some choosing to remember the violence while others advocated for moving on, and a few claiming that the day was not violent at all. The latest certification of Donald Trump’s presidential win amplified these divisions within Congress, particularly as Trump has referred to the attack carried out by his supporters as “a day of love” and has previously promised to pardon those convicted of crimes related to the riot if he were to assume office again.
This year’s session on January 6 saw little of the turmoil witnessed four years ago when rioters attempted to storm the Capitol and halt the electoral vote count. The atmosphere in the room was subdued, with members of Congress methodically announcing each state’s electoral votes, and Vice President Kamala Harris acknowledging her own electoral defeat. Democrats did not raise objections during the proceedings, marking a stark contrast to the dramatic events of the past.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, addressing gathered members by the windows where the initial breach occurred, expressed a desire for Democrats to provide a positive example for their Republican counterparts. Despite having lost the previous year’s election, he emphasized the importance of accepting defeat and working towards future opportunities rather than denying losses.
The outbreak of violence four years earlier occurred as rioters, fueled by Trump’s false assertions of election fraud, forcefully entered the Capitol after battling with law enforcement. Trump has continually claimed he was the rightful winner despite the fact that all 50 states certified Biden’s victory, and numerous court rulings rejected the challenges to the election results.
The Republican Party remains fractured over the events of that day. During the most recent certification of Trump’s victory, some GOP members sought to minimize the violence, defending many of the over 1,250 rioters found guilty of offenses. Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., took to social media early on to describe the actions of some rioters as merely exploring the Capitol, arguing they faced harsh legal consequences for their actions.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., reiterated her belief that all rioters should be pardoned, criticizing the treatment they received under the justice system. Conversely, certain Republicans offered different interpretations of the day, suggesting that Trump’s potential assurances to pardon the offenders could lead to complex political ramifications even within his own party. There are uncertainties as to whether he may aim to pardon all those involved or limit it to those who did not engage in violence.
Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina, a notable Trump ally, reflected on the mayhem, acknowledging that while not all involved were violent, there was undeniable brutality that warranted accountability. Another Republican, Senator Mike Rounds from South Dakota, noted that the events of that day left an indelible mark on his memory, reiterating the gravity of what transpired.
Meanwhile, some Republicans prefer to avoid discussions about January 6 altogether. Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma recalled his experience of barricading doors against rioters but expressed a resolve to leave the past behind. He stated, “You can’t drive while looking out the rearview mirror.” Senate Majority Leader John Thune echoed similar sentiments, indicating a focus on future endeavors rather than dwelling on the past.
Among Democrats, the fourth anniversary served as a moment of reflection on their own experiences from that harrowing day and preparations regarding Trump’s potential return to office. Georgia Representative Hank Johnson conveyed frustration over having to certify Trump’s victory under such circumstances, stating that their duty should not have felt so grave four years prior. He and other Democrats, referred to as the “gallery group,” took a moment to commemorate their shared experience, reinforcing their commitment to remember the day.
Also in attendance was Metropolitan Police Officer Daniel Hodges, who fought valiantly against the rioters four years ago and now attended the certification as a guest. He described this year’s legislative process as “very dry,” stating that it was how they intended it to be back then. Returning to his post afterward, he noted the ongoing responsibility of law enforcement to ensure the safety of both the city and Congress members.
