Former U.S. Capitol Police Officer and Jan. 6 Rioter Vie for Congress
Former U.S. Capitol Police Officer and Jan. 6 Rioter Could Both Head to Congress
In a surprising turn of events, a former U.S. Capitol police officer who defended lawmakers during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack and a man who served time in prison for joining the mob could both be headed to Congress next year if they succeed in their primaries later this month.
Democrat Harry Dunn, who bravely defended lawmakers during the attack, and Republican Derrick Evans, who served time in prison for his involvement in the mob, are both seeking their parties’ nominations in strongly partisan districts. If they win their separate contests on May 14, they could serve together in the House of Representatives next year.
Dunn, 40, was inspired to enter politics after his experience on Jan. 6, where he faced racial slurs from rioters trying to overturn President Joe Biden’s election. He emphasizes the need to defend democracy and the Constitution in these perilous times.
On the other hand, Evans, 36, is running on a platform of exposing corruption in D.C. and pushing for Trump’s border wall to be built. Despite his past involvement in the Capitol riot, he sees his actions that day as a badge of courage.
The two candidates have vastly different agendas, with Dunn focusing on strengthening voter protections and reducing corporate influence in politics, while Evans prioritizes building the border wall and pushing for term limits in Congress.
Their campaigns highlight the deep divisions in the country, with Jan. 6 serving as a dividing line that has intensified polarization. Both candidates have raised significant amounts of money for their campaigns, with Dunn leading in contributions and securing the endorsement of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
As the primaries approach, the race between Dunn and Evans will be closely watched to see if these two individuals with such contrasting backgrounds and beliefs can potentially work together in Congress if elected.
