Anthony Bucco: 'There Is No Room In Our Democracy For Violence'

MENDHAM, NJ — One day after a violent pro-Trump mob stormed the U.S. Capitol, forced lawmakers into hiding and wreaked havoc on government property, New Jersey politicians were quick to weigh in on the chaos — including U.S. Sen. Anthony M. Bucco, a Republican who represents New Jersey's 25th district.

“The protests turned violent mob yesterday in the halls of our government will leave a disgraceful and embarrassing stain on our nation’s history," Bucco said in a statement. "All of us who serve in government, elected by the people and for the people, must adhere to the peaceful transition of power that has made us the greatest country on earth and preserved our republic for over 200 years."

Following a "Stop the Steal" rally held in protest of the Nov. 3 presidential election results, chaos erupted shortly thereafter. Members of Congress were forced into hiding, offices were ransacked, and the formal congressional tally of Electoral College votes was halted for more than six hours as a pro-Trump mob converged on the U.S. Capitol.

Sen. Bucco didn't mince words when he condemned the actions of the Capitol rioters.

“There is no room in our democracy for violence, the destruction of property, or the disruption of that orderly transition. Democracy will prevail, just as law and order will prevail over disorder and chaos. “Those who broke the law yesterday must be prosecuted to the fullest extent," Bucco said. "I want to thank our law enforcement officers and military personnel who once again selflessly answered the call, put their lives at risk, and restored order to our Capitol. I am always grateful for their service.

Twenty-four hours after the chaos ended, President Donald Trump for the first time acknowledged his defeat Thursday and announced there would be an “orderly transition" on Jan. 20, Inauguration Day, after Congress concluded the electoral vote count early Thursday certifying President-elect Joe Biden’s victory.

“I continue to urge the President to choose leadership in this moment and follow an orderly transition of power in these final days of his administration," Bucco added.

One protester, a white woman, was shot to death by Capitol Police during the riot, and there were dozens of arrests. DC's police chief added that another woman and two men appeared to have suffered from separate medical emergencies which resulted in their deaths as well.

AP News contributed to this story.

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