John,

Today marks the one-year anniversary of one of America’s darkest moments: when armed insurrectionists launched a violent and deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol with the intent of halting the sworn duty of lawmakers to certify the 2020 presidential election.

Despite the existential threat it faced on January 6th, our democracy prevailed — largely because of the bravery exhibited by the officers of the U.S. Capitol Police and other law enforcement officers.

But we also know that those who wanted to topple our democracy haven’t given up, and they have moved their assault to state capitols and legislatures across the country.

The lies and extremism that led to the January 6th insurrection and its dangerous aftermath have no place in the United States of America, and elected leaders must help lead the way in standing up for the truth, protecting our democracy, and making sure that it’s the vote of the people that decides all future elections.

We must never forget what happened one year ago today, and we must recommit ourselves to the hope and promise of a democratic government. It is up to us to defend it.

Thank you,

Roy Cooper