President Trump urged the American public on Wednesday to refrain from violence before President-elect Joe Biden took office, again calling for a peaceful transition of power.
Why it matters: The statement was released while the House debated whether to accuse Trump a second time, after the president was accused of inciting the pro-Trump crowd that invaded the U.S. Capitol and left five dead last week.
- DC is currently on high alert before Biden’s inauguration, with the National Guard deployed to the country’s capital.
What they are saying: “In light of reports of further demonstrations, I urge that there should be NO violence, NO violation of the law and NO vandalism of any kind. That is not what I stand for and it is not what the United States stands for. I appeal to ALL Americans to help ease tensions and calm tempers. Thanks.”