Former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell and D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Daniel Hodges criticized former President Donald Trump for praising rioters who attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021. They questioned Trump’s commitment to law and order when he promised to pardon individuals convicted of storming the Capitol, some of whom assaulted police officers. Gonell and Hodges spoke at a news conference hosted by President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, where they expressed their dismay at Trump’s actions and called them a betrayal of democracy and law enforcement.
During the news conference, Gonell and Hodges highlighted Trump’s salute to a song recorded by individuals convicted of the January 6 attack as “absolutely mind-blowing.” They emphasized the contradiction between Trump claiming to be on the side of law enforcement while supporting violent insurrectionists through his comments and actions. The officers criticized Trump’s support for rioters and denounced his attempts to downplay or excuse the events of January 6, which they personally experienced as defenders of the Capitol.
In response to a video posted by Trump on social media featuring a hog-tied image of President Biden painted on a pickup truck, the Biden campaign accused Trump of promoting violence. Campaign spokesman Michael Tyler stated that Trump’s behavior was not an isolated incident and reflected a pattern of political violence inherent to his political brand. This incident further underscored the Biden campaign’s strategy of spotlighting Trump’s authoritarian tendencies and his unwavering support for January 6 rioters whom he has hailed as “unbelievable patriots.”
Gonell and Hodges have been vocal in their criticism of Trump and Republicans for their handling of the January 6 events, with Gonell describing the day as resembling a medieval battle. He mentioned needing surgery for injuries sustained during the riot that ultimately led to his retirement in 2022. Gonell expressed frustration at the continued spread of conspiracy theories by individuals he had protected during the Capitol defense, holding Trump accountable for the injuries and trauma inflicted on law enforcement that day.
In addition to his involvement in the events of January 6, Trump’s rhetoric and attacks against a federal judge overseeing his criminal case in New York have raised concerns in the judiciary and Congress. Trump’s verbal assaults on the judge and the judge’s family have been deemed threatening, prompting active members of the judiciary to speak out against such behavior. U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton, among others, emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law without the threat of physical harm, underscoring the need for judges to carry out their duties without fear of retaliation or intimidation.
Overall, the criticisms levied by Gonell, Hodges, and other members of law enforcement and the judiciary point to broader concerns about Trump’s conduct, especially in relation to the events of January 6 and his response to legal proceedings against him. The Biden campaign’s efforts to highlight these concerns reflect a broader strategy of holding Trump accountable for his actions and words, particularly those that undermine the rule of law and perpetuate political violence. By speaking out against Trump’s behavior, these individuals aim to shed light on the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring the safety and integrity of institutions such as law enforcement and the judiciary.
