Today on Sojourner Truth, our weekly roundtable.
Outrage grows at what some are calling a coup attempt by Donald Trump, which culminated on January 6, the day the presidential election results were certified by Congress. However, the certification was delayed, as a mob (including white supremacists and Q-anon Trump supporters) was allowed to invade the U.S. Capitol building, including the House and Senate chambers. One Capitol police officer was killed. A woman Trump supporter was shot and killed by police. Three others died from what have been described as medical emergencies. Meanwhile, Capitol police only made 14 arrests during the invasion and occupation. Protesters were assisted by Capitol police, many of whom were seen having friendly exchanges with occupiers. Also, they were allowed to leave the building and in some cases they helped them go down the steps. This is in stark contrast with how Black Lives Matter protests have been dealt with by law enforcement.
Democrats in Congress are calling for the immediate removal of Trump either by use of the 25th Amendment or by impeachment. Several Trump cabinet and staff members have resigned. Trump had encouraged the crowd to march to the Capitol and to "be strong." He has since condemned the violence and said there would be a peaceful transfer of power. These are empty words, many say, considering the blame for what happened on Wednesday has been clearly placed on his feet. This, in addition to the telephone call he made to the Georgia Secretary of State, basically asking him to find votes for him so that he could be declared the winner of the election there. Some are saying the attempted coup in Washington, D.C. was orchestrated with help from some members of law enforcement and the military.
Our panelists are Laura Carlsen, Dr. Gerald Horne and Jackie Goldberg.
