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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 8, 2021

Contact: Brooke Lillard, 202-225-3361



Blue Dog Leadership Honors Officer Brian Sicknick, Calls for Domestic Terrorists to be Held to Account



WASHINGTON-Today, Rep. Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), the Blue Dog Coalition's Co-Chair for Communications and Outreach and a former police officer, issued the following statement on the death of Officer Brian Sicknick, a twelve-year veteran of the U.S. Capitol Police, who died on January 7, 2021 due to injuries sustained while serving in the line of duty to defend the U.S. Capitol complex on January 6, 2021:



"Wednesday was a dark day in American history. The Blue Dogs wholeheartedly condemn the violent acts that took place at the U.S. Capitol. We believe those who infiltrated the Capitol and attacked those protecting the Capitol complex to have perpetrated a domestic terror attack against the United States of America with the political motivation of preventing the certification of the results of a free and fair election-the cornerstone of American democracy. These terrorists must be held to account under the fullest extent of the law.



"While under security lockdown, Congress resolved to reconvene as soon as possible and finish the certification of the election results. Members and staff could not, and did not, let these insurrectionists stop us from serving the American people and fulfilling our constitutional duty to confirm and acknowledge the certificates from the electors from each state. The press continued to inform the world of the events as they unfolded, so the public could see the clear consequences of the actions of those who have consistently chosen political convenience and conspiracy over the good of our country and the truth.



"We must not forget that this was possible because of the heroic efforts of those like Officer Brian Sicknick, who sacrificed his life to protect the Capitol complex, and, in turn, American democracy. The Blue Dogs send their deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Officer Sicknick. Our nation should never forget his service and patriotism."



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The Blue Dog Coalition is an official caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives comprised of fiscally-responsible Democrats, who are leading the way to find commonsense solutions. They are pragmatic Democrats, appealing to the mainstream values of the American public. The Blue Dogs are dedicated to pursuing fiscally-responsible policies, ensuring a strong national defense for our country, and transcending party lines to get things done for the American people. Visit our website<[link removed]> to learn more, and get the latest news updates by following us on Twitter<[link removed]> or liking us on Facebook<[link removed]>.