NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty issued a joint statement condemning the attack on the Capitol Wednesday.
“Yesterday was a shocking day of lawlessness. We watched in horror as rioters breached the security of both Houses of Congress and inflicted significant property damage upon those historical halls. Our Republic will rise above the chaos that ensued yesterday in the Capitol. These violent assaults on our democratic processes threaten to unwind the fabric of this country. As Americans, we must unite in our commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. We are grateful for the heroic law enforcement officials who helped restore peace, allowing us to complete our work. Last night we reconvened with our Senate colleagues to fulfill our constitutional duty to certify the 2020 election results and prepare for a peaceful transition of power. On January 20th, we will prove to the world that America is still the shining city on the hill.”
The senators arrived at the Capitol that day, planning to object to the electoral votes being counted in joint session. However, following the riot, in which four people lost their lives, both senators did not object to the election results.
Their initial decision drew criticism from fellow lawmakers and former Senator Bob Corker who spoke with NewsChannel 5 Wednesday, saying they were participating "in [a] rouse on the American people."
Even though Blackburn and Hagerty changed course, all Tennessee GOP House members voted against election certification:
- Rep. Tim Burchett
- Rep. Scott DesJarlais
- Rep. Chuck Fleischmann
- Rep. Mark E. Green
- Rep.Diana Harshbarger
- Rep. David Kustoff
- Rep. John Rose
