It was supposed to be a day of great pride.

Our nation, despite its differences, would set aside the partisan fighting that is only natural in politics, and with grace, respect, and honor bear witness to the peaceful transfer of power.

A privilege that so many Americans have fought for centuries to defend, was nearly erased in one afternoon.

Instead, they sat in horror while watching Donald Trump send a mob after me and my Democratic colleagues, after the Vice President for daring to follow the law, and after anyone who stood in the way of their attempted coup.

In the months and years since, prosecutors and investigators have tried to piece back together what was torn apart on that day, fighting to bring accountability to insurrectionists, cop killers, and even Presidents. I don’t have to tell you that the search for justice and accountability is far from over.

Any words here that promise you that this kind of depravity is over would ring hollow. Our democracy is an experiment that demands our participation, demands that we fight to defend it against threats to liberty wherever they roam.

I’m honored to have you by my side in that fight. But our nation is still at risk. This year, how our country votes goes beyond policy decisions and the direction we go, but strikes at the very core of our nation’s values and principles. Will we be ruled by the people, or dictators and mobs? I’m standing with democracy, friend. Can I count on you to join me? »

Thank you,

Congressman Raul Ruiz