Former MPD Officer Accuses GOP Lawmaker After Jan. 6 Riot Beating
During a recent hearing on Capitol Hill, tensions ran high as former MPD officer Michael Fanone confronted Republican Rep. Troy Nehls regarding the January 6, 2021, riot. The hearing featured testimony from Jack Smith, the ex-special prosecutor who led two unsuccessful prosecutions against former President Donald Trump.
Former MPD Officer’s Outburst
Rep. Nehls, representing Texas, attempted to shift responsibility for the Capitol riot away from Trump and toward Capitol Police leadership. He asserted that the Capitol leadership had prior intelligence about the potential for violence. “The fault does not lie with Donald Trump,” Nehls declared.
This assertion prompted a visceral reaction from Fanone, who had been severely beaten during the riot. He interrupted Nehls with a loud cough followed by a sharp retort, saying, “Fk yourself.” This incident highlighted the ongoing frustrations of officers who faced violence that day.
Capitol Police Officers Respond
Alongside Fanone were three other Capitol Police officers—Aquilino Gonell, Harry Dunn, and Daniel Hodges—who also expressed criticism toward Trump in the aftermath of the insurrection. Their presence underscored the impact of the riot on law enforcement officials present that day.
Jack Smith’s Testimony
During the hearing, Jack Smith emphasized the dire implications of failing to hold Trump accountable. He articulated concerns about “catastrophic” threats to American democracy stemming from the insurrection and the aftermath.
- Smith stated that not holding individuals accountable for criminal behavior undermines the electoral process.
- He warned that it endangers election workers and could have lasting effects on democracy.
The conversation and confrontations during the hearing reflect ongoing divisions in the political landscape surrounding the January 6 incident. As more information comes to light, the discussions continue to evolve on the implications for democracy and accountability.
