"Today we learned the Capitol police officer who lost his life in the siege on the U.S. Capitol was bludgeoned with a fire extinguisher by the lawless, seditious mob. As we mourn lives lost and take account of the fragile nature of our democracy, we must hold accountable those whose words instigated, energized, and motivated the insurrectionists. Chief among them: the head of the Arizona Republican Party, Kelli Ward, and those elected leaders who parroted her lies and deceptions.
Their social media messages, including a post asking people if they’re willing to die to combat the results of the 2020 election, added fuel to an already hot fire. Kelli Ward and certain legislators are now trying to distance themselves by deleting social media postings, but we have seen them and saved them. Their words cannot be taken back any more than the lives of the people who died in Washington, D.C this week.
Here’s my message to Kelli Ward and “leaders” like her: take responsibility now and accept your part in this sad, American carnage. Stop calling the 2020 election fraudulent when you know that is not true. Tell the truth to voters. Do not hide behind the 1st Amendment, which you should know does not allow you to incite violence.
History will remember who defended democracy and who actively attempted to undermine it.
Be part of our healing, or contribute to our undoing. That is your choice."