Dear Friends-

Most Americans will never know how perilously close our democracy came to being overturned by anarchists committed to insurrection and stopping the peaceful transfer of power. It is startling to think 71% of Republicans believe the Big Lie that our 2020 election was “stolen.” 

It’s heartbreaking to think about the lives lost by valiant Capitol Police officers and the trauma of Capitol Police, congressional staff, and my colleagues. I witnessed firsthand the mob overtake Capitol Police officers from the window of my office. It was a sad day for democracy and an eye-opener, but we returned to the Capitol, we voted and defeated the insurrection. 

We have video, text messages, and first-hand accounts documenting the events, and yet some downplay and even deny what happened. Immediately after January 6th, I called for an investigation into the causes and events that led up to this insurrection, and I proudly voted to create the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol.  

Congress continues its work to root out the causes and conspirators that sought to breech American democracy a year ago today. While the Select Committee investigates, the House has passed bills like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, the Protecting our Democracy Act, and the For the People Act to counter the dangerous effects of foreign money, corruption, cronyism and misinformation in our electoral process.  

My thoughts are with everyone who carries the hardship of that day. The time to act is now.  

To follow what I’m working on both in Washington and in Connecticut, visit my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or follow me on Instagram.  

Regards,
 
John B. Larson
Member of Congress