Friend,

This weekend, I talked to CNN’s Brian Stetler about the extremism that led to the January 6th insurrection.

I studied violent extremism in other countries during my time working for the State Department and the United Nations, but I never expected to face it in the House Chamber, like I did on my fourth day in office.

Like you, I’m incredibly disappointed by the Senate’s acquittal of Donald Trump. But this was not the final step towards accountability. We need to ensure that there’s accountability for anyone who incited, encouraged, or committed acts of violence against our democracy. There is no doubt that white supremacy played a role in the attack, and we must continue to confront it head-on.

To heal as a nation, I am calling for a truth and reconciliation commission, a tool that’s been used in many countries around the world. It’s not about silencing dissent, it’s about coming to terms with our past -- the gory and the glory -- to help us move forward together.

If we are ever going to heal and unify, we need to reckon with our history and find a common narrative of what we want our country to be moving forward. I look forward to having those conversations with all of you.

In solidarity,

Sara