Press Releases

Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal voted for H.Res. 503, which empowers Congress to find the truth of the January 6th insurrection at the United States Capitol and ensure that this assault on democracy does not happen again.  This legislation will create a Select Committee charged with investigating and reporting upon the facts and causes, as well as making recommendations to prevent similar domestic terrorist attacks.

“January 6th was more than just a deadly attack on our Capitol – it was an assault on our very democracy,” said Congressman Neal.  “As Members of Congress, we have an urgent and sacred duty to uncover the truth of that terrible day.  That is why I voted to establish a Select Committee to investigate the insurrection and ensure that such an attack can never happen again.”

On January 6th, the United States Capitol Complex was attacked by insurrectionists attempting to impede Congress’s constitutional mandate to validate the results of the presidential election.  The storming of the Capitol threatened the lives of Members of Congress, staff, institutional employees and D.C. and Capitol Police – killing five people, injuring more than 140 law enforcement officers, and instilling terror and trauma among the Capitol Hill community.  In the wake of this domestic terrorist mob attack, many unanswered questions remain about its origins and the response to it.

Congressman Neal was barricaded in his Ways and Means Office immediately adjacent to the House floor as looters and rioters tried to break down their door. After a sufficient amount of time, the other members whom he was with, staff, and police officers were able to safely exit the room and rejoin their colleagues in a secure space with other members and staff.

The Committee will have thirteen members appointed by the Speaker, five of whom will be appointed after consultation with the Minority Leader.  This House-passed resolution does not require Senate approval or a Presidential signature in order to take effect.  This step comes after Senate Republicans, at the request of Mitch McConnell, blocked a popular and bipartisan bill to establish an independent 9/11-type Commission to investigate the January 6th insurrection.  That proposal was negotiated and agreed upon by the bipartisan leadership of the House Homeland Security Committee and was endorsed by the bipartisan 9/11 Commission Chairs, Thomas Kean and Lee Hamilton, as well as 140 national security experts.

“The Capitol has stood for centuries as a symbol of hope and freedom known around the world, and it is our responsibility to ensure its resilience,” continued Congressman Neal.  “I am proud to support this Select Committee, which will help us prevent future domestic terrorist attacks on these sacred grounds, honor those who put their lives on the line to defend our democracy and ensure that the Congress can continue its essential work For The People.”

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