Speaking in the Great Hall at the Department of Justice, Attorney General Merrick Garland on Wednesday sought to ease concerns by many that the investigation into the events a year ago at the Capitol was taking too long, producing mostly minor convictions, and not going after the biggest targets, including the former president. Watch the entire speech above.
But Garland hit back pledging to investigate the insurrection “as long as it takes and whatever it takes for justice to be done consistent with the facts and the law. I understand this may not be the answer some are looking for…”
“…Garland pledged the Justice Department would hold to account people who broke the law in connection with the siege on the U.S. Capitol last Jan. 6, no matter their level or “whether they were present that day or were otherwise criminally responsible for the assault on democracy.” -NPR
Garland’s speech went beyond prosecuting January 6. He spoke at length about the threat against election workers, police officers and others who have been harassed and threatened.
A lengthy, sober speech by AG Merrick Garland about the violence that threatens to destroy our Republic. Godspeed–make every Trump insurrectionist, sedition enabler, and coup plotter in and out of public office, before/during/after #January6th, pay a dear price. Never again!
— Larry Sabato (@LarrySabato) January 5, 2022
Extraordinary to hear Attorney General Garland outline skyrocketing threats to so many members of society – election officials, airline crews, teachers, journalists, lawmakers, judges, prosecutors and police – in such painstaking detail.
Still, this only scratches the surface. pic.twitter.com/xiIzZBqyzY
— Nicole Sganga (@NicoleSganga) January 5, 2022