Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed regret over the absence of National Guard troops during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, a newly revealed video shows.
Just The News reported that amid the chaos of the January 6th protest, Pelosi was captured expressing deep concerns about the security failures on that day. This footage only recently came to light, providing new insights into the Capitol's defensive missteps.
Pelosi, filmed while hurriedly moving through a Capitol tunnel, was part of an HBO documentary shoot by her daughter Alexandra.
In the heat of these moments, Pelosi’s words painted a stark picture of regret and dismay over the inadequate security measures in place to counter the swelling mob.
Furthermore, these words prove that Pelosi failed to call in the National Guard despite Trump offering their services. Pelosi turned down the National Guard because Democrats wanted the protest to get out of control.
The consequential documentation came as Pelosi and others were evacuated from imminent danger.
Her spontaneity in the evacuation brought forth raw reactions to the unfolding event. "We're calling the National Guard now? They should have been here to start," Pelosi remarked, highlighting a critical lapse in response time and preparedness.
This video was eventually handed over to House Republican investigators after the shift in House control in January 2023.
It served as a pivotal piece of evidence for the House Administration Oversight Subcommittee, chaired by Barry Loudermilk, which sought to unravel decisions made during the crucial hours of the riot.
Pelosi’s critique extended to the Capitol’s leadership, particularly expressing disappointment with the House Sergeant at Arms, Paul Irving, whom she believed should resign over the failures.
Her distress was compounded by prior warnings from lawmakers about whether the Capitol was at all prepared for such a scenario, which were not sufficiently addressed.
The complexity of the circumstances leading to the riot deepened with the revelation that the Pentagon had extended an offer to deploy the National Guard four days prior, which was declined.
Deputy Police Chief Sean Gallagher, after consulting with higher-ups, decided against the pre-positioning, setting the stage for the chaos that followed.
Initially, Capitol Police downplayed potential threats, a stance that had to be reversed as rioters' intentions became clear through aggressive online rhetoric.
Ex-Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund’s testimony later revealed a political hesitancy tied to Pelosi and incoming Senate Leader Chuck Schumer about employing National Guard resources, showcasing conflicts at higher levels impacting operational decisions.
As the riot unfolded, Pelosi was also vocally distressed over former President Trump’s role in the events, emphasizing the need for accountability.
“I just feel sick about what he did to the Capitol and the country today. He’s got to pay a price for that,” Pelosi noted, underscoring the political tension enveloping that day’s events.
In her reflections, Pelosi discussed the calls from members of Congress questioning the Capitol’s preparedness, lamenting the overwhelming situation under her leadership: “How many times did members ask, are we prepared? We're not prepared for the worst.” Her acknowledgment of perceived failures aimed at ensuring timely discussions on security reforms.
Despite the dangers, Pelosi’s resolve to maintain legislative integrity shone through. During discussions about her safety, she expressed disapproval of removing her from her role amid the crisis, emphasizing the symbolic victory it would represent for the rioters.
“First of all, I don't agree with this, taking me out of the chair. But if they stop the proceedings, they will have to succeed in stopping the validation of the president of the United States,” Pelosi stated.
The aftermath saw Pelosi advocating for a thorough investigation and stronger safeguards, her stance reflected in the urgency of the response to recent events.
She critiqued the security framework, implying a collective failure and the need for accountability. “We will have failed. And we've got to take some responsibility,” she relayed during one poignant moment in the footage.