Press Release

Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) released the following statement after the violent January 6 siege on the United States Capitol:

"This has been a dark week in our nation's history.

The violent storming of the United States Capitol by a lawless mob seeking to thwart the certification of the presidential election was an assault on our democracy.

The images of extremists desecrating the seat of our democracy - many proudly waving Confederate flags and anti-Semitic symbols - filled me with a deep level of anger and sadness.

Those who laid siege on the Capitol and committed these heinous crimes, including the tragic death of a Capitol Hill police officer, must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

Let's be clear: this riot was incited by the President of the United States, who spent months fomenting distrust in our democratic process with his wild conspiracy theories and public efforts to overturn the will of the American people.

By inciting this riot, President Trump violated his constitutional oath to faithfully execute the duties of the Presidency and has shown to be incapable of leading our country over the next 11 days. For the safety and security of our country, he must be immediately removed from office.

Despite the seditious acts that took place this week, and the undermining of our democracy by the President, the will of the voters was ultimately upheld. On January 20th, the peaceful transition of power will take place and President-elect Biden will be sworn in to lead our country.

As we reflect on the tumultuous events of this week, let us not forget that our democracy is precious, but worth protecting. We must move forward together with strength and resolve."