Trump forfeited right to run for president

Dear Republican caucus voters, there are some numbers to consider before voting for Donald Trump.

Trump called a rally for Jan. 6, 2021, stating it would be wild. On the morning of that Jan. 6, multiple cars full of assault rifles and explosives were seized by police.

Two pipe bombs were placed by Republican and Democratic party offices, and a gallows was erected.

Trump spoke to over 10,000 people and told them to be peaceful, but his parting words were to “fight like hell, or you wouldn’t have a country.” Then he told them to march to the Capital.

At 1:30 p.m., violent clashes start with the Capital Police. Donald Trump responded by tweeting his speech. At 2:11 p.m., the rioters broke into the Capitol building, smashing windows and doors.

At 2:24 p.m., Donald Trump tweeted that Mike Pence failed us. The Secret Service moved to protect Mike Pence as rioters chanted to hang him.

At 2:38 p.m., Trump tweets to respect the police but only under pressure  does he tell supporters to be peaceful; he doesn’t ask anyone to leave. 

At 4:05 p.m., President-elect Joe Biden speaks to the nation.

Finally, at 4:17 p.m., Trump tells the rioters to go home. Trump never called the National Guard, never raised a finger to stop the violence he put in motion.

Five people died, one of them a police officer. Four more police would commit suicide, 174 officers were injured, and so far 890 rioters have been convicted of federal crimes. Trump has been charged and is awaiting trial. Next president? Never.  

MARY HALEY

Sandpoint