Denver – Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the statement below about the attack on the U.S. Capitol and American democracy, and the need for justice and accountability for all those responsible, including President Donald Trump:

“Wednesday was a terrible day for our country, our democracy, and our example to the world. It was the Founders’ worst nightmare – the President of the United States inciting a mob to attack Congress and cling to power.

“Americans and the world watched in shock and embarrassment as a mob occupied our Capitol, urged on by the president and his enablers in Congress and the media. Their repeated indulgence of lies and conspiracy brought violence to the Capitol and left five Americans dead.

“This assault on our Constitution cannot go unanswered. We must reject lawlessness and reassert the rule of law. We must repudiate authoritarianism and reclaim democracy. Those who organized and led the assault, those who followed them, and those who incited them – none should be beyond the reach of justice.

“Last year, I voted to remove President Trump from office for his crimes against our republic. Since then, his unconstitutional wrongdoing has only grown worse. He should resign immediately. If he does not, Vice President Pence should invoke the 25th Amendment and remove him from office. Failing that, I will support any effort to impeach the president and uphold the rule of law – including steps beyond January 20 if required.

“Our next task is to ensure that our republic emerges from this crisis stronger, not weaker. We have seen where a politics of lies, dysfunction, and division has brought us. Instead, let us move forward with renewed commitment to truth, integrity, unity, and a commitment to our shared destiny as Americans. This will be difficult after the last four years, and especially after this week, but we must find the courage to come together as Americans and restore our exercise in self-government and example to the world.”