Former President George W. Bush issued a statement Wednesday evening about the events that unraveled at the US Capitol earlier in the day.
Bush said he was appalled by the reckless behavior of some political leaders as well as the lack of respect shown nowadays for the country’s institutions, traditions and law enforcement.
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“The violent assault on the Capitol — and the disruption of a Constitutionally-mandated meeting of Congress — was undertaken by people whose passions have been inflamed by falsehoods and false hopes,” he wrote.
The former president also referred to the situation happening in DC as insurrection.
“To those who are disappointed in the results of the election: Our country is more important than the politics of the moment,” he said.
Below is a transcript of his full statement:
“Laura and I are watching the scenes of mayhem unfolding at the seat of our Nation’s government in disbelief and dismay. It is a sickening and heartbreaking sight. This is how eletion results are disputed in a banana republic — not our democratic republic. I am appalled by the reckless behavior of some political leaders since the election and by the lack of respect shown today for our institutions, our traditions, and our law enforcement. The violent assault on the Capitol — and the disruption of a Constitutionally-mandated meeting of Congress — was undertaken by people whose passions have been inflamed by falsehoods and false hopes. Insurrection could do grave damage to our Nation and reputation. In the United States of America, it is the fundamental responsibility to every patriotic citizen to support the rule of law. To those who are disappointed in the results of the election: Our country is more important than the politics of the moment. Let officials elected by the people fulfill their duties and represent our voices in peace and safety. May God continue to bless the United States.”