Trump Denies Responsibility for Capitol Riots

Adam Bear, Staff Writer

After a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol building on January 6, questions and concerns have arisen about Trump’s involvement in the planning and execution of the event. Multiple rioter testimonies to the FBI have indicated that Trump encouraged or even ordered his supporters to storm the Capitol. One rioter, a retired firefighter from Pennsylvania, said he felt “instructed” by Trump to go to the Capitol.

Trump also encouraged his supporters to protest in Washington several times in December and January through Twitter. In addition, during a speech on January 6, Trump encouraged his supporters to go towards the Capitol, which they did.

In reaction to the riots, the House of Representatives has impeached Trump for his involvement, but legal experts are unsure on whether Trump could face criminal liability for the events. The testimony from the rioters is likely to be cited in Trump’s impeachment trial in the Senate.

Despite his impeachment and other factors that indicate Trump’s liability for the violence, Trump has denied involvement and responsibility. Other politicians, such as Suffolk County representative Lee Zeldin, have denied Trump’s involvement. Whether Trump faces real legal consequences is yet to be seen.