This email came from my Congressman, Dan Kildee of Flint on Jan. 7^th.

Attack on our Democracy

Janet

Like you, I am horrified by the attack on the U.S. Capitol and our democracy.

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine I would have to lie on the floor of the House Chamber, fearing for my own life and for the safety of others, as police dispersed tear gas and guns were drawn to stop an angry mob from taking over Congress.

I am grateful to the U.S. Capitol Police for their efforts to protect Members of Congress, our staff members and the institution at large. This moment we now find ourselves in requires brutal honesty and hard truths—about how this could have happened and where we go from here. Every American, regardless of party, should be outraged about this attack on our democracy.

Let me be clear: President Trump, and his enablers, have brought us to this moment of violence and chaos. For years, many Republican leaders have turned a blind eye as the president ratcheted up his hate-filled rhetoric. Just yesterday, hours before angry mobs of Trump supporters broke into the U.S. Capitol, Rudy Giuliani called for “trial by combat.” The president’s son threatened Members of Congress who didn’t vote to overturn the results of the election, saying “we’re coming for you and we’re going to have a good time doing it.” And the president himself expressed his love for those that had just broken into the Capitol, calling them “very special” people.

We have every right to be angry, but no one should be surprised that this type of rhetoric led to the deadly violence we saw yesterday.

There’s no warranty or guarantee on the back of the Constitution. As the world witnessed yesterday, things can fall apart quickly. This democracy is what we make of it. If we want to preserve our way of life and the rule of law, then it requires all of us to remain vigilant, speak truth to power and demand better.

Thankfully, democracy prevailed. Despite yesterday’s horrific events, Congress came back into session and certified the results of the 2020 presidential election. In 13 days, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will be sworn in as the next President and Vice President of the United States. Their leadership is sorely needed so that our country can begin to heal.

— Dan

Congressman Dan Kildee – a Flint native – is proud to represent Michigan’s Fifth District. As a Democratic party leader, Dan is fighting hard to ensure every American has access to quality health care, clean water and a good-paying job. The path to protect the Democratic majority in the House runs right through the Midwest, and as Heartland Engagement Chair, Dan’s job is to protect and elect Democratic candidates.