Rep. Bennie Thompson's Opening Statement on the 5th Anniversary of the January 6th Attack

Remembering January 6th

• 🇺🇸 Bennie Thompson opened a hearing to mark the 5th anniversary of the January 6th attack, thanking law enforcement for their protection.
• 🚨 He described the January 6th attack as a bloody riot incited by President Donald Trump, which pushed democracy to the breaking point.
• 💥 The attack involved violence against officers, with many suffering lasting injuries and some dying from the trauma.

Upholding the Constitution and Rule of Law

• ⚖️ Thompson emphasized the importance of remembering the events of January 6th and not allowing history to be rewritten or lessons to be forgotten.
• 🗣️ He stated that the work of the January 6th Select Committee was to uncover facts and ensure such an event never happens again.
• 🤝 The committee's work highlighted the importance of officials putting their country over party, remembering their oath to the Constitution.

Ongoing Threats to Democracy

• ⚠️ Thompson warned that the danger has not dissipated, noting President Trump's refusal to acknowledge election loss and the rewarding of those who promoted the "big lie."
• 🚫 He criticized the Department of Justice becoming an instrument for retribution, where upholding the rule of law is punished and loyalty to one man is rewarded.
• ✊ Democracy, he stated, depends on the courage of defenders and the willingness to hold accountable those who wish to destroy it.

The Path Forward

• 🗺️ The hearing is presented as another step toward justice, honoring oaths, and demonstrating that the constitutional republic is stronger than its enemies.
• 🎤 Thompson looked forward to testimony from courageous defenders of American democracy, aiming to preserve truth and uphold the rule of law.