U.S. Congressman Terry Sewell (AL-07) issued the following statement on Saturday, recognizing the third anniversary of the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol.

“Today, we stand behind the violent and deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol by rioters, at the direction of Donald Trump, to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power and overturn the 2020 election.” As we solemnly commemorate the third anniversary of the attack, I would like to express my gratitude to the more than 140 law enforcement officers, including but not limited to those who were assaulted and lost their lives defending our democracy on that fateful day. I would like to express my gratitude.

“For me, the memory of January 6th is a memory that will stay with me. I will never forget the feeling of terror as I lay on the floor of the House Gallery and the roar of impending violence. The insurrection failed to achieve its objectives, but the very foundations of our country remain under threat from extremist movements that do not share our values.

“We, as elected officials, have a moral obligation to put the interests of the nation above those of any individual or political party. It is our duty to uphold the Constitution and uphold democratic ideals, not trample them. This is my job.

“As we move forward, we must remember that there can be no healing without accountability.”