GOP Backs Trump, Targets Liz Cheney in Capitol Riot Investigation

GOP Backs Trump, Targets Liz Cheney in Capitol Riot Investigation

House Republicans have released their findings on the January 6th Capitol attack, echoing former President Donald Trump’s desire to punish his perceived enemies. The report singles out Liz Cheney, a former GOP representative and vocal critic of Trump, as the target for prosecution. This move reinforces Trump’s efforts to exact retribution against those who held him accountable for his role in inciting the insurrection.

Loudermilk’s Interim Report: Shifting Blame and Rewriting History

The report issued by House Administration Committee Chairman Barry Loudermilk, R-Ga., attempts to shift the blame for the Capitol riot away from Trump. It focuses on the January 6th committee’s investigation, claiming that Cheney and other members committed wrongdoing. The report’s findings align with Trump’s own rhetoric, which has consistently denied his responsibility for the attack.

Cheney’s Defense: A Detailed Rebuttal

Cheney has strongly defended the January 6th committee’s work, dismissing Loudermilk’s report as “disregard[ing] the truth.” She highlighted the committee’s substantial evidence against Trump and accused Loudermilk of fabricating allegations to protect the former president.

Trump’s Revenge: Targets for Prosecution

Trump has repeatedly threatened to prosecute those who blame him for the Capitol riot. His targets include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Cheney, and members of the January 6th committee. Special counsel Jack Smith, who indicted Trump, is also on Trump’s retribution list.

Biden’s Pardoning Power: A Potential Shield

President Joe Biden is considering issuing pardons to protect members of Congress and others who face the wrath of Trump. However, some of those involved have stated that they do not seek or want pardons from Biden.

Security Failures: A Focus on the Lag in Response

The GOP panel’s findings also address the multiple security failings that contributed to the Capitol riot. They criticize the delay in calling in the National Guard, which eventually restored order at the Capitol.

Targeting Cheney: Witness Tampering Allegations

Loudermilk’s report accuses Cheney of witness tampering in her interactions with Cassidy Hutchinson, a former White House aide who testified against Trump. The committee alleges that Cheney’s actions violated federal laws and should be investigated by the FBI.

Loudermilk’s Defense: Protecting the Institution

Loudermilk claims that his report is necessary to protect the institution of Congress and hold those responsible accountable. He argues that the Capitol remains unsafe and that the security failures of January 6th must be addressed.

Thompson’s Refutation: Baseless Allegations

Chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., of the January 6th committee, dismissed Loudermilk’s report as baseless. He maintained that Trump bears ultimate responsibility for the attack and that Loudermilk’s attempts to rewrite history are futile.