Following the unprecedented attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, newly disclosed footage presents unique insights into the event’s aftermath. These recordings reveal how, during the chaos, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi labelled the then-incumbent President Donald Trump as a “domestic enemy”.
In one of the unseen footage, recorded the day after the breach, Pelosi adopts the same sentiment while preparing for a press briefing. She also contemplates deploying the 25th Amendment, which could have led to Trump’s removal from power.
The Congress’s confirmation of the election results sparked further criticism from Pelosi towards Trump’s actions. “He’s going to pay a price for that,” she had said, expressing her disapproval of what she felt was the President’s exploitation of democratic processes.
What makes this footage particularly intriguing is that it was captured by Pelosi’s daughter Alexandra Pelosi and recently retrieved by the Republican-led House Committee on Administration. This committee, in its investigations, cites these recordings as a part of the substantial evidence to indict Trump for instigating the attack.
As part of these clandestine tapes, Pelosi is observed accepting her portion of the blame for the perceived weak security measures at the Capitol.
Unveiling aftermath of Capitol attack through footage
She also voiced her frustration towards the late arrival of the National Guard.
The tapes also give an account of how Steven Sund, US Capitol Police Chief, and Paul Irving, House Sergeant at Arms, behaved during the incident. Both had to resign, with Pelosi insisting on holding ex-President Trump principally responsible for the chaos unleashed.
The aftermath of this incident highlights the zeal of Pelosi to combat destructive ideologies. She viewed these events as a crucial juncture in holding Trump accountable for his deeds.
The exclusive footage supplied by Alexandra Pelosi gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the upheaval in the political process and Pelosi’s firm resolve to hold Trump to account.
Despite the tense and volatile atmosphere, Pelosi remained steadfast in her views. Her belief in constitutional processes and the rule of law resonated repeatedly during this period.
Apart from the tension and urgency, the footage also underscores Pelosi’s exasperation with the ex-President and his supporters’ “monstrous” actions.
While several Republicans criticize Pelosi for inadequate security measures, Pelosi continually advocates for an in-depth probe into the Capitol riot. She deems this necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future, to fully grasp the event’s magnitude and the “monstrous” actions that outweighed any cautionary measures.