The Reality of Republican Support for the Capitol Insurrection
In the aftermath of the January 6th insurrection at the US Capitol, the phrase 130 Republicans supported the insurrection has been widely circulated. However, this claim requires a deeper analysis. While significant numbers of Republicans show support for various aspects of the insurrection or the democratic process, it is important to differentiate between types of support and the actions taken.
Support for the Inauguration and Election Results
According to youGov, a substantial number of voters identify that events at the US Capitol are a threat to democracy. Specifically, in the weeks following the insurrection, a Reuters poll found that approximately 45% of Republicans supported the Capitol invasion. This figure has likely decreased as more information has been revealed, but it indicates a noteworthy degree of Republican support for some form of action regarding the election.
Types of Support
1. Support for Examining the Election Results:
Many Republicans supported the President's position that the election results needed a more thorough examination. On the morning of January 6th, nearly 100 of Republicans either supported this stance or were at least sympathetic to it. They believed that irregularities in the democratic process warranted a closer look.
2. Support for a Protest:
A significant number of Republicans apparently supported a march on the Capitol and a demonstration, similar to the 2017 Pussy Hat protests. While not necessarily advocating for the violence that occurred, this support hints at a desire for public political engagement and protest.
3. Support for Forceful Action:
It is crucial to clarify that approximately zero percent of Republicans actually supported invading the Capitol building by force. There is zero evidence of plans or coordination for such an action among Republicans or supporters of former President Trump. The actions that took place involved a small group and were not indicative of widespread support for violent disobedience.
Divorce from Insurrection
Given the chaos that unfolded and the subsequent use of the term insurrection, it is important to distinguish between the actions of the small group involved and any form of insurrection. An insurrection involves a planned, organized attempt to overthrow the government. The small group that invaded the Capitol on January 6th was neither organized nor planning to overthrow the government. They were, in fact, engaged in vandalism and conduct that endangered public safety.
Supporters of the incursion often argue that there were organized forces waiting in the wings ready to carry out a coup with heavy weapons and militia groups. However, reality does not align with such narratives. It is highly unlikely that smaller groups and individuals could orchestrate such an operation without significant support and coordination. Moreover, the majority of Americans, including a significant number of Republicans, view these actions as a breach of the rule of law and an attack on democracy.
Conclusion
The complex situation surrounding the January 6th insurrection requires a nuanced understanding of different levels of support among Republicans. While some support the examination of the election process or peaceful protests, there is no evidence of widespread support for the violent action that took place. The term insurrection is inapplicable to the actions of a small group without the support of organized militia or a clear plan to overthrow the government.