As a former U.S. Capitol Police employee, it was clear to me January 6, 2021 was an intentional ruse. Each year the Capitol Police receive hundreds of requests for various events and gatherings. Not all are approved. Primary factors for denial are manpower and security considerations. But when the sun rose on January 7, there was no doubt the power brokers on Capitol Hill allowed, even emboldened, the events of that day.
Based on experience and knowledge, the denial to obtain sufficient resources to protect the Capitol campus was without a doubt a calculated act. This is what led to the chaos and damage we witnessed at our beautiful historical Capital building. Our so-called leaders allowed the worst of society, who enjoy the freedoms of our republic, to disrespect and destroy lives and property.
Recalling Another Fateful Day
It was shortly after 9/11, Feb 2002, when I joined the civilian ranks of the department. It was clear enhancing security was a high priority. The department budget increased by millions and the police force grew by hundreds. Virtually any request made to enhance security and fortify the campus was approved by the House and Senate. Remember, the primary existence of the Capitol Police is to protect Congress.
The department began to modify skills, tactics, awareness, and training. Requests for events and gatherings were scrutinized a little more. Law enforcement tactics regarding situational awareness was enhanced. Nothing was marginalized when it came to protecting members.
Prior to 9/11 the department had a small civilian force. However, the events of 9/11 led to ensuring officers became focused on security, which led to hiring professional civilians for administrative positions. The changes allowed for reassignment of officers, which increased visual presence and a greater show of force. Law enforcement training increased exponentially, to include a new training facility in Maryland.
I joined the department as the Assistance Procurement Officer and became the Procurement Officer. This required communicating and working with every division in the department. Our office procured everything from dogs and dog food, to vehicles, furniture, various technology tools and programs, cabling and cameras, and heightened security systems. The Capitol campus began its evolution toward a fortified compound.
The Ruse
Knowing the number of resources consumed over the years to protect the members and secure buildings and grounds is why the events of J6 are questionable, particularly to many who worked on the hill. It is inconceivable to me that the department would not be prepared for that day. With all the hype and reporting of a potential incident, the department would have been prepared. The department typically had a plan, a back-up plan, and a back-up to the back-up plan. It was common practice to authorize overtime for major events, which this was.
One indicator of intentionality is the Office of the Speaker of the House lords over the Capitol Police. The Police Chief reported he contacted the House Sergeant at Arms (SA) to seek additional support. This means the Speaker would have been made aware of the request because the SA reports directly to the Speaker and is in constant communication with the person who sits in that seat. This also indicates the offer from the White House to the Speakers office to deploy the National Guard would have been denied by the Speaker. Nothing of this magnitude is authorized without the consent of the Speaker. Pelosi would have been made aware.
Without a doubt the congressional elitists, in both parties, were major culprits in the events of January 6, 2021. They and others were adamant that President Trump would not return to the White House. The smoke and mirrors they deployed were just that. He was a threat, and they could not risk any attempts to diminish or eliminate their perceived power and control.
The results of the 2020 election had the Democrats claiming their guy won. It was a fair election. That their lives were in danger on January 6. That our democracy, which we are not, was at stake. That challenging the vote was unconstitutional and unpatriotic. Scare tactics!
The Result of the 2024 Election
The 2024 election results irrefutably reveal President Trump won the electoral and popular vote. So, what are Democrats crying wolf about now? Some have publicly stated they will challenge the electoral college vote in January, which they have done to previously elected Republicans. Mainstream media is spewing there will be imminent chaos. That his cabinet picks are unconventional, unfit, and not qualified. Mayors and Governors are claiming they will refuse to cooperate with ICE to deport illegal aliens. More scare tactics!
I admit I am thrilled with the result of the 2024 election. Previous policies of President Trump were beneficial to the people, and he will reinstate them and more. And with the current Speaker of the House, we can be assured he will be prepared for chaos should election deniers choose to storm the Capitol. Speaker Johnson will authorize enough security to be ready to stand post and protect life and property. He will not tell the Capitol Police to open the gates, walk away, and stand down.
Author Karen Hiltz, EdD, is a speaker and author from Sebastian, FL. Dr. Hiltz is a Navy veteran, retired federal procurement professional and former professor of business and public school board member. She has a BA and MBA in Management and an EdD in Leadership Studies.
2024 Election
January 6 Committee
Liz Cheney
Nancy Pelosi
Adam Kinzinger
January 6 riot
U.S. Capitol police
January 6 prisoners
Capitol security
police training
January 6 preparedness
Speaker of the House
Donald Trump
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