After four years of the gross incompetence, divisiveness, prejudice, and nonfeasance from the kleptocracy led by Donald J. Trump, our nation, our state, and the whole world, must address not only the persistent pandemic and its long-term economic and societal consequences, but the more widespread sense of isolationism and societal misdirection, as reflected in a rioting mob of self-proclaimed Trump supporters who broke into the U.S. Capitol building and chambers on Jan. 6, two weeks before Biden’s inauguration. The mob, aroused by an incendiary “rally” speech from Trump, marched to the Capitol, smashed windows and doors, urinated and scattered feces in chambers, stole federal property, and forced a temporary evacuation and delay of proceedings.
It was the first time since the War of 1812 that the Capitol had been attacked. But this time, the vandals were not a foreign enemy, but our fellow Americans. It was a stunning affront to democracy, fueled by anger and violence. The mob fought through police barricades, stormed the building and entered lawmakers’ chambers. The Electoral College certification process was stopped and Vice President Mike Pence and members of Congress were evacuated.One civilian was shot dead,
At the same time, however, Trump supporters and enablers took to social media to spread lies and hate, some falsely repeating the insurrection was an ultra-liberal plot by “antifa” to infiltrate a “peaceful” protest. Antifa is not an organization. It is “anti-facism,” the ideological and political opposition to the far right.