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Donald Trump during his speech on January 6th
Photo: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / AFP
At least two witnesses have apparently revealed before the US House of Representatives investigative committee how much Donald Trump is said to have identified with the protesters during the storming of the Capitol on January 6.
This is reported by the New York Times, citing several anonymous sources close to the committee.
On January 6th, an angry crowd headed for the Capitol in Washington, some of the demonstrators shouted "Hang Mike Pence" while Vice President Pence was escorted to safety.
According to the report, Trump is said to have complained about the security measure and remarked in the White House that Pence should perhaps be hanged.
He is said to have commented approvingly on the shouts of the demonstrators.
It is apparently unclear in what tone Trump said these sentences, whether he could have meant them sarcastically, for example.
According to the New York Times, the information was based on statements by Trump's then chief of staff, Mark Meadows.
He is said to have reported to colleagues in the White House on January 6 about Trump's behavior.
At least two witnesses reported Meadow's alleged statements to the investigating committee.
The New York Times report names one witness.
It is said to be Cassidy Hutchinson, a former employee of Meadows.
According to the New York Times, a Trump spokesman called the investigative committee's work a "continuation of the Democrats' smear campaign," but did not elaborate on the allegations.
Trump goaded the mob – and also mentioned Pence
January 6, 2021 has become a defining date for the United States.
A mob stormed the US Capitol in Washington that day.
The processes – and above all the masterminds – of the attack on the US Capitol are still being examined.
The committee of inquiry should primarily clarify whether and to what extent Trump was involved in the processes.
Among other things, Trump's family members are also questioned.
Public hearings of the committee are to take place for the first time in June.
Apart from Democrats, only two Republicans are represented on the committee, both of whom are proven Trump critics.
Protesters on Jan. 6 wanted to prevent Democrat Joe Biden's November 2020 election victory from being confirmed.
Five people were killed in the attack, including a police officer.
Trump faced impeachment over the attack.
The trial ended without a binding verdict.
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Under Punishment: Capitol Storm Committee Summons Congressmen
If true, the testimonies will illustrate how much Trump may have supported the violent intentions of the January 6 protesters.
Pence had refused that day to make Trump president despite his election defeat.
Immediately before the storming of the parliamentary seat, Trump had goaded his supporters in a speech and also mentioned Pence.
"Mike Pence will have to stand up for us," says Trump, among other things.
"And if he doesn't, it will be a sad day for our country."
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