What Did Pelosi Say About Trump as a "Domestic Enemy"?
Following the attack on the US Capitol by Donald Trump’s supporters on January 6, 2021, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi referred to the then-president as a “domestic enemy,” according to newly published footage. The film spans fifty minutes of Pelosi’s Capitol evacuation and she with Democratic colleagues and staff throughout the tumult.
How Did Pelosi Prepare for the Press Conference and Discuss the 25th Amendment?
The video shows Pelosi getting ready for a January 7, 2021, press conference when she planned to demand the US Capitol Police Chief resign and draw attention to Trump’s involvement in the violence. “There is a domestic enemy in the White House,” Pelosi heard stating. “Let’s not soften words about this.” She opted not to use the word in public comments, even with her harsh language. She then spoke about the likelihood of using the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office, enabling a temporary or permanent transfer of authority from the president to the vice president.
How Did Pelosi Reflect on the Attack and Trump's Future?
In a later film from the early hours of January 7, Pelosi is seen in the rear of an SUV contemplating the events of the day and Trump’s influence. “I simply feel sick about what he did to the Capitol and the nation today,” she adds. “He will pay a price for that.” Her daughter, Alexandra Pelosi, filmed this video, which offers a personal perspective on her response to the day’s events and her expectation of consequences for Trump.
What Was the Reaction to the Footage Handed Over to Congressional Investigators?
Recently turned over to the Republican-led House Committee on Administration, the footage Alexandra Pelosi recorded Investigating the results of the Democratic-led House January 6 select committee—which concluded that Trump had enough proof to be convicted of encouraging the attack—this committee is looking into Leading the House Committee on Administration, Georgia Republican Congressman Barry Loudermilk dismissed the tape as not offering anything fresh. “Nancy Pelosi has not taken ownership of her inability to guard the Capitol grounds on January 6, 2021, for almost three years. Rather, she has emphasised the failing effort of President Trump,” he said.
How Did Pelosi Handle the Evacuation and Address Security Concerns?
Additionally, in the new video, Pelosi’s January 6 Capitol escape is shown. As her security detail and colleagues are en route to safety, she is shown guiding them to “prepare for what could happen” and to “consider the worst”. Pelosi asked about the election result certification situation during the evacuation. “If they stopped the procedures, they would have succeeded in stopping the validation of the president of the United States,” she said.
What Are the Insights into Responsibility for Security and National Guard Delays?
In many portions of the film, Pelosi asserted ownership of Capitol security. “We will have failed if they halt the proceedings,” she remarked. “And we must own some guilt for not making the security answerable for what may have transpired. We have to wrap up the processes.” Given that the president can send the National Guard into the District of Columbia, her irritation is evident as she wonders why the guard did not show up at the Capitol during the attack. “I find it unbelievable how dumb these people are,” Pelosi said. “And I accept full responsibility.”
What Discussions Are Shown About the Capitol Police Chief and Sergeant at Arms?
The video also shows Pelosi and her team talking about the positions of US Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund and House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving, who had intended to retire following the inauguration. One of Pelosi’s aides discussed with Mr. Irving, who said, “underestimating the crowd size and underestimating the president’s influence,” per one video footage. Soon after the disturbance, Sund and Irving were forced to step down.
How Did Pelosi Focus on Trump and Call for Resignations?
The video also shows Pelosi on the phone with a communications assistant getting clearance for a pre-written statement demanding Sund’s resignation. “I believe our emphasis should be on the president,” she says. “Let’s not stray from our path.” This video highlights Pelosi’s deliberate attention to Trump’s responsibility and the broader consequences of the incident.
