Val Demings: ‘A coup in progress;’ Members respond to insurrection

Members of Congress who’ve been evacuated back to their offices during the storming of the U.S. Capitol are beginning to respond by tweet:

Democratic Rep. Val Demings:

“A mob storming the U.S. Capitol to overturn an election. A coup in progress. A dark day for America. But this is what they always wanted. Don’t let them deny it. They will lose. We will not be intimidated. Democracy will win.”

Republican Sen. Marco Rubio:

“Mr. President @realDonaldTrump the men & women of law enforcement are under assault. It is crucial you help restore order by sending resources to assist the police and ask those doing this to stand down.

“There is nothing patriotic about what is occurring on Capitol Hill. This is 3rd world style anti-American anarchy.”

At about 2:15 p.m., around one hour into the debate on Arizona’s electors, a commotion broke out in House chambers.

There were a few confusing minutes as Republican Rep. Paul Gosar, who issued the objection, tried to argue his position. He was interrupted twice and not knowing what was going on implored that he be allowed to continue.

After a minute or two, however, the session was recessed. A few minutes later, someone told the members in the House chamber: “Get down under your chairs if necessary. Be prepared. Stay calm.”

CNN is showing footage of protesters in the House chamber, with one sitting in the Speaker’s well.

PBS is reporting someone was shot in the chest inside the Capitol building.

The AP reports law enforcement instructed lawmakers to retrieve masks from under their seats amid the clashes. The Capitol building was placed on lockdown as Trump supporters marched through evacuated public spaces in the building.

A chaplain prayed as police guarded the doors to the chamber, and lawmakers tried to gather information about what was happening.

Among other responses:

Republican Rep. John Rutherford:

“The lawlessness taking place here in our nation’s capital is unacceptable and un-American. You cannot say you stand for law and order and then act this way. Pray for our law enforcement as they secure the area and keep us safe.”

Democratic Rep. Kathy Castor:

It’s entirely outrageous that the defeated president is egging on racist white supremacists for violent action, disrupting a peaceful transfer of power. Have no doubt: Joe Biden will be sworn in as President in 2 weeks.”

Democrat Darren Soto:

“This was a historically dangerous attack on our democracy incited by the violent rhetoric of a treacherous President. We will protect your vote, uphold our Constitution and certify the election of Pres-elect Biden.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis put out a statement:

“Violence or rioting of any kind is unacceptable and the perpetrators must face the full weight of the law. The Capitol Police do an admirable job and I thank them for their hard work.”

State Sen. Shevrin Jones:

“This is a shameful moment in our nation’s history as Donald Trump and his enablers have incited and provoked an outright attack on democracy. These are not political protestors, but violent terrorists attempting to overthrow our government and they must be criminally prosecuted…Donald Trump must be removed from office. The world is watching.”

At about 2:15 p.m., around one hour into the debate on Arizona’s electors, a commotion broke out in House chambers.

There were a few confusing minutes as Republican Rep. Paul Gosar, who issued the objection, tried to argue his position. He was interrupted twice and not knowing what was going on implored that he be allowed to continue.

After a minute or two, however, the session was recessed. A few minutes later, someone told the members in the House chamber: “Get down under your chairs if necessary. Be prepared. Stay calm.”

CNN is showing footage of protesters in the House chamber, with one sitting in the Speaker’s well.

PBS is reporting someone was shot in the chest inside the Capitol building.

The AP reports law enforcement instructed lawmakers to retrieve masks from under their seats amid the clashes. The Capitol building was placed on lockdown as Trump supporters marched through evacuated public spaces in the building.

A chaplain prayed as police guarded the doors to the chamber, and lawmakers tried to gather information about what was happening.