More details are coming out and it looks even worse for Pelosi.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has publicly acknowledged her failures in securing the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, a day marked by violent unrest instigated by then-President Donald Trump’s supporters. Newly released footage sheds light on Pelosi’s candid reflections and criticisms during the chaos, as she grappled with the unfolding disaster and the apparent shortcomings of Capitol security.
In the footage, recorded by her daughter Alexandra Pelosi, the former Speaker is seen expressing frustration and taking responsibility for the security lapses. She candidly admits, “We completely failed. We must take some responsibility for failing to hold the security accountable for what may have happened,” and emphasizes, “I can’t believe the stupidity of all this. And I take full responsibility.”
This recent release, made public by the Republican-led House Committee on Administration and obtained from HBO, expands on earlier footage from Pelosi’s daughter’s documentary archives. It shows Pelosi expressing dismay over the lack of preparedness, saying, “How many times did the members ask, ‘Are we ready? Are we ready?’ We’re not ready for the worst. We are calling in the National Guard. Now? They should’ve been here to start out.”
Pelosi also criticized her staff, including her chief of staff, Terri McCullough, for failing to anticipate the severity of the situation. In one exchange, she is heard saying, “It’s stupid. They thought they had what? They thought these people would act civilized? What is missing here in terms of anticipation?”
Despite her focus on Trump, she later dismissed suggestions to call for the resignation of Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund, focusing instead on holding the President accountable.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.) and other House Republicans have seized upon these revelations to criticize Pelosi, arguing that her failure to secure the Capitol has been overshadowed by efforts to blame Trump. Kash Patel, former chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense, has called for justice, asserting that President Trump’s return to the White House in 2024 is essential to “drain the swamp,” restore accountability, and combat political corruption.
This footage underscores the ongoing debate over accountability and leadership surrounding the January 6th events, highlighting the need for transparency and reform in safeguarding our nation’s institutions.
WATCH:
🚨NEW FOOTAGE: Nancy Pelosi admits the events that took place on January 6th was her ‘responsibility’
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) August 28, 2024
“ I can’t believe the stupidity.. I take full responsibility.” pic.twitter.com/56DNyixqCV