The horrific images of the violent mob taking over the U.S. Capitol building are ones that will never be forgotten.
Hours after a group of pro-Trump rioters stormed the Capitol, Congress reconvened to tabulate the votes of the Electoral College on Wednesday.
The ceremonial act of counting the votes, which represents the voices of the people in our democracy selecting the next leader of the free world, confirmed that Democrat Joe Biden will be inaugurated as president on Jan. 20.
Once Vice President Mike Pence certified the final votes from the state of Wyoming, President Donald Trump suggested he will give up his seat after denying the results for months.
“Even though I totally disagree with the outcome of the election, and the facts bear me out, nevertheless there will be an orderly transition on January 20th,” Trump said in a statement posted to Twitter by his social media director.
The change in tone by the president was late, but something his supporters needed to hear.
After the traumatic events of this past week, a peaceful transition is needed for the country to heal and move forward.
The Justice Department, federal courts, and state government have repeatedly all confirmed that the 2020 election was held in a free and fair manner, and that Biden won the race in the Electoral College 306-232. These are facts that some Americans may not like, but need to accept.
At least four people died during the riot, including one woman who was shot by an officer outside the House chamber. On Thursday, it was announced a U.S. Capitol police officer died of injuries.
Pence deserves credit for stepping up during the chaos, as he ordered the National Guard to stop the chaos while also fulfilling his duties of certifying the votes despite Trump wrongfully saying that he could overturn the election.
During the certification, Indiana Reps. Greg Pence, Jackie Walorski, Jim Banks and Jim Baird objected to certifications. While they might not like the results, those lawmakers should join the president in asking for their constituents to support a peaceful transition.
Jan. 6, 2021 will forever remain a stain on the history of the United States. Where the country goes from here is up to each and every citizen.
