Somerville Officials Slam 'Insurrection' At Capitol Building

SOMERVILLE, MA — Somerville leaders joined together to condemn what they called an "insurrection" at the U.S. Capitol Building Wednesday. Mayor Joseph Curtatone, City Council President Matt McLaughlin, School Committee Chair Andre Green and Superintendent Mary Skipper issued a joint statement Wednesday night, calling the violence "an assault on our beliefs and our values as a nation."

"While this shameful chapter in our national history takes place, we are grateful for our own community's civic strength and want to assure our residents, workers, families, and students, that we are being vigilant at the local level to make sure that no one here imitates the violence we are seeing in our capital," the statement continued in part. "We are committed to the safety of our residents."

The certification of President-elect Joe Biden's election victory was halted by a mob of rioters supporting President Donald Trump, who for days has fanned the flames of his supporters' fury over his loss. Senators, representatives and Vice President Mike Pence were evacuated from Capitol building, which was overrun by people donning Trump flags and gear.

Photos from inside the building showed them in the House Chamber and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's office. Tear gas was also seen coming from the front of the building where some rioters climbed balconies and what is to be the inauguration stage when Biden is sworn in as the 46th President of the United States on Jan. 20.

"Our hearts go out to everyone in Washington tonight. Hopefully, members of both parties come together to condemn this assault on our republic and authorities can quickly restore order," Somerville leaders said. "In the meantime, our local commitment to peaceful, citizen-led government remains unshaken. Our democratic traditions run deep, and they are stronger than this attempt to derail them."

Officials said the school district is preparing to support students and staff in addressing recent events, given the potential emotional stress and questions they may raise for students. Families are encouraged to contact their school principal if they feel their child needs additional support.