WASHINGTON — President Trump on Wednesday urged his supporters to “stay peaceful” after thousands of protesters unhappy with the election result stormed the US Capitol.
“Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!” the president tweeted.
Congress was rocked by troubling scenes of chaos on Wednesday afternoon as Trump’s supporters overpowered Capitol police and breached the building.
Vice President Mike Pence and lawmakers who were in session to debate and confirm Joe Biden’s win were evacuated and taken to a secret location.
Thirty minutes later, Trump tweeted again, saying, “I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!”
Tens of thousands of supporters of the president descended on Washington for a raucous rally earlier Wednesday where Trump delivered a fiery speech claiming the election had been stolen from him.