DC braces for first prime-time public hearing on Jan. 6 Capitol attack

We are a day away from the first prime-time public hearing for the Congressional investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021 attack at the U.S. Capitol.

The House committee tasked with investigating the attack said it will present never-before-seen material documenting the riot and said it will provide the public with its initial findings of the attempt to prevent the transfer of power that day.

A U.S. Capitol police officer who suffered a traumatic brain injury in the attack will also provide testimony about her experience on the ground.

According to the Department of Justice, around 140 police officers were hurt in the Capitol riot and more than 840 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.

“The task before the committee is to tell the truth and find out what happened on January 6th,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA), a member of the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol.

The attack temporarily disrupted Congress’ certification of President Biden’s election win.

It also led to the second impeachment of former President Donald Trump, who was acquitted of inciting the deadly attack.

“Uncover the truth, the whole truth, nothing but the truth,” said Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). “Present it to the American people. Tell the American people what happened, why it happened, and how do we prevent this type of violent insurrection and attack on our democracy from ever happening again.”

There are two Republicans on the Jan. 6 House Select Committee, alongside seven Democrats.

House Republicans are calling it political theater and are accusing Democrats of trying to distract the public from problems like inflation.

“This committee is not about seeking the truth,” said Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY). “It is a smear campaign against President Donald Trump, against Republican members of Congress and against Trump voters across this country.”

“Their goal is to stop President Trump from running in 2024. Plain and simple,” said Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH).

Thursday’s public prime-time hearing is the first of six that the committee will hold.

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