Former Vice President Mike Pence publicly condemned Donald Trump’s actions during the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, stating that Trump’s “reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day.” Pence made the remarks Saturday at the annual Gridiron Dinner, a white-tie event attended by politicians and journalists, marking his sharpest criticism to date of his former boss.
Pence’s statement came as both men are potentially preparing to compete for the Republican presidential nomination in the upcoming election. According to the Associated Press, Pence asserted, “President Trump was wrong. I had no right to overturn the election.” He further stated his belief that “history will hold Donald Trump accountable.”
The criticism follows previously reported pressure from Trump on Pence to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election while Pence was presiding over the certification of the electoral votes. Pence refused this request, a decision that reportedly led to rioters at the Capitol chanting calls to “hang Mike Pence.”
Evidence revealed in Trump’s federal January 6th case indicates Trump’s reaction upon learning of the danger Pence faced. Sources familiar with the case have stated Trump responded with just two words when informed that Pence was being targeted by the rioters.
Trump has already announced his candidacy for president. Pence has not formally declared a run but has been actively laying the groundwork for a potential campaign. The widening rift between the two men underscores the increasingly contentious dynamic within the Republican party as it heads toward the 2024 election cycle.
During the January 6th riot, Trump reportedly referenced Pence in speeches and communications, according to reconstructions of the events and indexes of related transcripts. Politico reported that Trump expressed support for the chants calling for Pence to be hanged.
Pence’s remarks represent a significant departure from his previously cautious approach to publicly confronting Trump. The former Vice President has often avoided direct criticism of his former boss, even in the face of mounting scrutiny surrounding the January 6th events.
