SPLC: President Trump’s Quest to Steal the Election Endangers Lives at the Capitol

WASHINGTON, D.C. – At President Trump’s prodding, thousands of extremists have stormed the Capitol complex in Washington D.C. to prevent lawmakers from certifying President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.

Lecia Brooks, chief of staff for the Southern Poverty Law Center, issued the following statement in response. 

“Today’s violent, chaotic protests are the product of a despicable attempt by our sitting president to steal an election. Time and time again, he encouraged protestors to fight for him and to get “wild”– with no regard for the safety of our cities and the American people. It’s no surprise then that protestors are now storming the Capitol – barrelling over barricades, climbing construction structures, and threatening the safety of officers, Congresspeople, and the entire city. At least one person has been shot. 

“These horrifying scenes are unprecedented in American history – and rest squarely on the shoulders of the president, his enablers, and his allies in the right-wing media.

“Remember, President Trump supported tear-gassing peaceful protestors for a photo-opp in front of a church. The contradiction in his response to protests is clear: ‘If you’re with me, commit all the violence you want. If you’re against me, then protests are unacceptable.’

“President Trump, the election is over. Stop the madness before lives are lost.”