Kinzinger tears into Republicans after Pelosi’s Jan. 6 video release: ‘Furious’

Former Representative Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) shared his newfound frustration with the Republican Party on Wednesday, following the release of video footage featuring then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi in the aftermath of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. In this video, Pelosi remarked that former President Trump must “pay a price” for his actions on that day.

When questioned about the footage that highlighted Pelosi’s call for the National Guard to be deployed earlier during the riot, Kinzinger reflected that the images reignited painful memories from that day. He described his feelings during a segment on “CNN News Central” with anchor Sara Sidner.

“She was reacting how we all did, and it just kind of takes me back to that and makes me furious that my party decided to — to memory-holed that whole day,” Kinzinger stated, expressing discontent over his party’s approach to the Capitol riot’s history.

The video shows Pelosi addressing the nation early the day after the Capitol incident. She indicated that Trump needed to “pay a price” for his actions which contributed to the events of January 6.

Kinzinger countered conservative arguments that suggested Pelosi was more concerned with Trump than with ensuring the Capitol’s security amid the chaos. He asserted that the primary focus of Congress at that time was seeking justice for the Capitol’s assault.

“The focus of all of Congress on that day was getting justice for what happened,” Kinzinger explained, reflecting on the urgency felt by lawmakers following the riot.

A prominent figure in the investigation of the Capitol riot, Kinzinger served on the House select committee dedicated to the inquiry. He was also among the ten Republicans who voted to impeach Trump after the riot took place.

Even after his departure from Congress, Kinzinger has remained an outspoken opponent of Trump. Recently, he received significant attention for his remarks during a prime-time speech at the Democratic National Convention, where he spoke just before Vice President Harris took the stage.

During his address, Kinzinger articulated that the Republican Party has drifted away from its conservative roots. He stated, “The Republican Party is no longer conservative. It has switched its allegiance from the principles that gave it purpose to a man whose only purpose is himself.”

In his speech, Kinzinger also characterized Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, as “a weak man pretending to be strong,” reinforcing his critical stance on the former president.

The Republican National Committee responded to Kinzinger’s comments by criticizing the media’s portrayal of him. A spokesperson for the committee, Anna Kelly, issued an email stating, “The media should stop treating DNC speaker and Kamala surrogate Adam Kinzinger as a credible voice for the Republican Party.”

Kinzinger’s ongoing remarks highlight a significant rift within the Republican Party post-Trump, as old alliances and principles seem to be questioned. The video clips of Pelosi and Kinzinger’s criticisms prompt reflections on the Republican Party’s current direction.

As this debate continues, the political landscape remains charged with opinions on leadership, accountability, and the future of the Republican Party following the tumultuous events of January 6th.

With ongoing discussions, it’s clear that many within the party are navigating a complex emotional and political terrain as they reconcile with the past.

Source: The Hill