U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos (IL-17) issued the following statement after returning to the House Floor to continue the Electoral College count, following an attempted insurrection earlier in the day:
“Earlier today, I joined my colleagues on the Floor of the U.S. House to begin the debate on objections to the Electoral College count. Now, after one of the worst days in the history of our democracy, we return to complete our work and fulfill our Constitutional duty.
“I have always been fiercely patriotic and proud to uphold our American values. Our nation has never cowered to terrorists or bowed down to tyrants. We have never allowed ourselves to be intimidated by those who would use the force of violence over lawful action. And under my watch, today will be no exception.
“There is no doubt that this day is a stain on the story of our nation. But this evening, we will move forward with the strength of our convictions and the knowledge that the actions we take will resonate throughout history.
“In this moment, we all have a choice to make. We can choose to fan the flames of hatred and sow the seeds of division. Or we can choose to join together, stand strong and honor the very core of our nation’s democratic values.
“This evening, democracy will prevail. Congress will make sure that every American’s vote counts —without interference by politicians who have put their party over the people.”
