Schakowsky Statement on Two-Year Anniversary of January 6 Insurrection
Schakowsky attends January 6th Remembrance on the Capitol steps.
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement in recognition of two years since the deadly insurrection against the United States Capitol by supporters of the former president:
"Two years ago today, the U.S. Capitol, and heart of our democracy, was attacked by a violent mob of election deniers. Witnessing firsthand so many of our fellow citizens willing to violate our democratic processes by committing violence is a memory I will never forget, and I hope others will not forget as well. Having served during 9/11, I remember well another time our nation’s fundamental ideals were under attack but being attacked from within our own government by my fellow Americans shook me to my core. Barricading myself in my office, closing the blinds and turning off the lights – these are memories that I will carry with me the rest of my life.
"Despite the horrors of what occurred on January 6th, many in the Republican party have refused to hold Donald Trump and his enablers accountable. As time has moved on, many of Trump’s allies who initially condemned his actions came back to side with him and have downplayed any wrongdoing. Before the glass was swept up and the true damage assessed, 138 House Republicans, led by Kevin McCarthy, voted against certification of a fair and free democratic election, essentially seeking to finish the job of the rioters to end American democracy.
"This brings us to the current crisis facing the House of Representatives. Republican leaders created a permission structure for Republicans to violate not only House norms, but also Federal law without any consequence from party leaders. As a result, Kevin McCarthy finds himself beholden to the darkest forces on the far right that attacked our democracy two years ago today. No matter what happens and no matter who becomes the House Speaker, Republican leadership is so compromised that they will remain beholden to these dark forces.
"Despite these turbulent and unsettling times, I am hopeful for the future of our country. I am inspired every day by Americans who care so deeply about upholding democracy and advancing progressive values. I promise to fight every day and speak truth to power to ensure that this country works for all Americans and upholds our ideals of freedom, democracy, and equality for all."
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