Pelosi denies Maher’s claim she took responsibility for Jan. 6 in video

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi recently addressed comments made by Bill Maher regarding her statements about the security situation during the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. During an interview on “Real Time with Bill Maher,” Maher pointed out footage where Pelosi took “responsibility” for certain aspects of the security and questioned her about the lack of protection on that day.

Maher referred to her video comments, saying, “You say, I’m quoting you, ‘I take responsibility.’” He then asked if her statement implied there should have been more protective measures in place at the Capitol.

Pelosi emphasized the unexpected nature of the situation, stating, “First of all, who could’ve ever thought that the president of the United States would incite an insurrection.” Maher chimed in, claiming that he had foreseen the potential for such a riot, remarking that “Me, I was saying it for years.”

In response, Pelosi clarified, “I’m not ever taking responsibility for [former President] Donald Trump.” She asserted that her accountability only extends to ensuring Trump does not win another term in office.

This discussion followed the emergence of previously recorded footage in which Pelosi is heard inquiring about the delayed arrival of the National Guard during the Capitol riots. The response time during the incident was notably slow, leading to her frustration and concern.

In the footage, she expressed her concern over the readiness of security measures, stating, “How many times did the members ask, ‘Are we prepared? Are we prepared?’ We’re not prepared for the worst.” She questioned the timing of calling the National Guard, saying, “It should’ve been here to start out. I just don’t understand it.”

Pelosi voiced her concerns over why the National Guard did not arrive sooner, remarking on her sense of duty regarding the preparation for such events. “I feel responsible,” she told her chief of staff. “We have a responsibility, Terri. We did not have any accountability for what was going on there, and we should have. This is ridiculous.”

She continued to express her feelings, saying, “I take responsibility for not having them just prepare for more. Because it’s stupid.”

Maher also posed questions about the emotional toll of Pelosi’s long political career, particularly following the traumatic event of her husband Paul Pelosi’s recent attack at their home. She acknowledged the inherent risks tied to her position, stating, “Well I… let me just say I signed up for this. And as for that part of it, well, I signed up for the public arena.”

In her remarks, Pelosi referenced a quote from former President Theodore Roosevelt, stating, “When you’re in the arena. You’re no longer a spectator.” She advised aspiring politicians, saying, “You got to be ready to take a punch,” while also emphasizing the importance of being prepared to respond if necessary.

Following the discussion, a communications director for the Trump campaign released a statement suggesting that Pelosi had rejected an offer from Trump to deploy soldiers and National Guard for assistance in securing the Capitol. They argued that in the unveiled footage, Pelosi indicated she was responsible for security failures, adding, “Pelosi needs to answer why she chose to ignore the warnings and the help that was offered.”

This exchange has reignited discussions surrounding accountability and the various factors leading up to the Capitol riot, continuing to be a focal point in conversations about congressional security protocols during volatile events.

Source: Mediaite