In a shocking revelation, newly released tapes from January 6 show former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi admitting her failures regarding Capitol security during the insurrection. The tapes, filmed in real-time, expose her candid thoughts and criticisms, raising questions about accountability and preparedness on that fateful day.
Key Takeaways
- Pelosi acknowledges a total failure in Capitol security.
- National Guard deployment was delayed due to lack of preparation.
- The tapes reveal internal discussions about accountability and response.
The Context of January 6
January 6, 2021, marked a dark day in American history as a mob stormed the Capitol, attempting to overturn the election results. Amidst the chaos, the response from security forces was heavily criticized. The newly surfaced tapes provide a glimpse into the leadership’s mindset during the crisis.
Pelosi’s Admission of Failure
In the leaked footage, Pelosi is heard saying, “We have totally failed. We have totally failed. Not Trump.” This statement underscores her acknowledgment of the security lapses that allowed the Capitol to be breached.
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- Key Quotes from Pelosi:
- “Why weren’t the National Guard there to begin with?”
- “I take responsibility for not having them prepared for more.”
These comments highlight her frustration and the urgency of the situation.
The Role of the National Guard
Pelosi’s remarks raise critical questions about the National Guard’s role on January 6. According to reports, President Trump had authorized the deployment of the National Guard days before the event. However, the responsibility for requesting their presence fell on local authorities, including Pelosi herself.
- Authorization Process:
- President Trump authorized the National Guard.
- Local authorities, including the Capitol Police and Mayor Bowser, needed to request deployment.
This chain of command reveals a significant gap in communication and preparedness.
Internal Discussions and Accountability
The tapes also capture Pelosi’s discussions with other leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Ilhan Omar. She expressed her concerns about the lack of urgency and preparation among security officials.










