Candidates with Contrasting Views of Jan. 6 Capitol Riot Seek House Seats in Primaries

Former West Virginia lawmaker Derrick Evans and Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn are both making bids for U.S. House seats in their respective state primaries, despite their drastically different roles in the events of January 6, 2021. Evans, who was part of the mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol, wants to make his path to Congress permanent, while Dunn, who defended the Capitol from rioters, is running to defend democracy.

The contrast between these two candidates reflects a larger shift in the political landscape, with some Republicans now viewing Jan. 6 defendants as “hostages” and even supporting their candidacies. Evans, a Trump supporter who proudly cheered on the riot, is challenging incumbent Rep. Carol Miller in West Virginia, while Dunn leads in fundraising in Maryland’s 3rd District race.

Despite their differing views on the events of January 6, both candidates are seeking to represent their constituents in Congress. The upcoming primaries in Maryland and West Virginia will provide a test of how voters perceive the actions of these candidates and their roles in one of the darkest days in recent American history.