Statement on the Insurrection at the U.S. Capitol

The attack at the Capitol was meant to split the foundations of our democracy: the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power. It is a stark reminder that white supremacy, white nationalist terrorism, and political violence continue to profoundly threaten our friends, neighbors, and the American Experiment.

These have been clear and present dangers to our national security and will be for years to come. In 2019, former DHS Secretary Kevin McAleenan affirmed that “the continued menace of racially-based violent extremism, particularly white supremacist extremism, is an abhorrent affront to the nation, the struggle, and unity of its diverse population.”

This attack has its roots in decades of mob violence, white nationalist terrorism, and hate crimes. As the dust settles, it is the shared responsibility of our national security community to improve our analyses, confront systemic biases, and ensure all communities and citizens are safe.

The President’s incitement and the willful and deliberate aid and comfort provided by those who know better — who continue to spread false conspiracy theories — should be unequivocally condemned.

We noticed the disparate treatment meted out to protesters, whose ideology and skin color differed dramatically from those who protested police brutality this summer. Even as the dread, horror, and rage we felt during this failed insurrection subside, these problems will remain.

Now, we’re settling into a protracted sense of sadness, and even anger. Anger at the way things are, the courage to face them fully, and change them. There will be many efforts in the days and weeks ahead requiring dedication and commitment. Today, our first step is straightforward: we will not participate in public or private events, meetings, or publications that include current or former public officials or other enablers who incited, aided, abetted, or otherwise participated in the assault and we will terminate relationships with any entity that hosts them. This extends to anyone who cannot meet a basic standard of decency regarding democracy, the rule of law, and human rights — or attempts similar acts of terror.

We are resolved to move forward with our mission: to ensure that our government looks like the American people, to perceive all threats to our Constitution, and safeguard all our lives. We trust that you will join us. We look forward to the hard conversations and the challenging work ahead of all of us.