President Donald Trump took to Twitter on Wednesday night to condemn the violence at the U.S. Capitol last week.
Using the @WhiteHouse account, the president did not address impeachment but spoke of the events at the Capitol on Jan. 6.
"As I have said, the incursion of the U.S Capitol struck at the very heart of our Republic," Trump said from behind his desk in the Oval Office. "It angered and appalled millions of Americans across the political spectrum.
“I want to be very clear — I unequivocally condemn the violence that we saw last week.”
Five people died as a result of the storming of the Capitol by demonstrators protesting the election results. Trump had alleged voter fraud resulted in Joe Biden winning the election.
In his address, Trump said violence and vandalism never should be included in the movement he has led.
“’Making America Great Again’ has always been about defending the rule of law,” Trump said with hands folded on the desk. “Supporting the men and women of law enforcement, and upholding our nation’s most sacred traditions and values.
“Mob violence goes against everything believe in and everything our movement stands for. No true supporter of mine could ever endorse political violence. No true supporter of mine could ever disrespect law enforcement or our great American flag. No true supporter of mine could ever harass their fellow Americans. If you do any of these things, you are not supporting our movement, you are attacking it and you are attacking our country. We cannot tolerate it.”
Trump said we’ve seen political violence “spiral out of control” during the past year consumed by the coronavirus pandemic.
“We have seen too many riots, too many mobs, too many acts of intimidation and destruction. It must stop.
“Whether you are on the right or on the left, a Democrat or a Republican, there is never a justification for violence. No excuses, no exceptions. America is a nation of laws. Those who engage in the attacks last week, will be brought to justice.”
Trump said he was asking all of his supporters to, “be thinking of a way to ease tensions, calm tempers and help to promote peace in our country.”
The president said the Secret Service has warned him about reports of potential demonstrations in the coming days in Washington, D.C., and at state capitals around the country. He added thousands of National Guardsmen would help defend the capital as the inauguration approaches next Wednesday, and he had directed federal agencies to use all necessary resources to maintain order.
“Every American deserves to have their voice heard in a peaceful and respectful way,” Trump said. “That is your first amendment right, But I cannot emphasize [enough] there must be no violence, no law-breaking and no vandalism of any kind. Everyone must follow our laws and obey the instructions of law enforcement.”
As he ended his address, Trump said: “Let us choose to move forward united for the good of our families, our communities and our country.”
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