FBI Director Chris Wray on Tuesday accused supporters of Donald Trump who carried out a deadly&nbsp;attack on the US&nbsp;Capitol of domestic terrorism and vowed to hold them accountable.

"I was appalled that you, our country's elected leaders, were victimized right here in these very halls," Wray testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

''That siege was criminal behaviour, pure and simple. It's behaviour that we, the FBI, view as domestic terrorism."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-tear-gas-explosives-and-gunfire-trump-supporters-storm-capitol-clash-with-police-354961">In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police</a>

It was Wray's first testimony in Congress since the attack, a failed bid to block Congress from certifying Joe Biden's November election victory, was carried out by supporters of then-President Trump who, in a speech near the White House, exhorted them to march to the Capitol in protest.

The Justice Department has charged more than 300 people on criminal counts ranging from conspiracy to attacking police and obstructing Congress. The rioting led to five deaths.

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At least 18 people associated with the far-right Proud Boys have been charged and nine people tied to the anti-government militia known as the Oath Keepers are facing charges they conspired as far back as November to storm the Capitol to prevent Biden from becoming president.

The FBI has not yet arrested any suspects in the death of Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick, or for pipe bombs that were discovered outside the headquarters of both the Republican and Democratic national committees.&nbsp;

The FBI has obtained a video that shows a suspect spraying bear spray on police officers, including Sicknick, according to a law enforcement source familiar with the investigation.&nbsp;

The suspect has not yet been identified by name, and it is still not clear if the bear spray contributed to Sicknick's death.&nbsp;

In a newly unsealed search warrant, investigators say rioters carried weapons inside the Capitol including tire irons, sledgehammers, tasers, bear spray and, in at least one case, a handgun with an extended magazine.

"Everyone involved must take responsibility for their actions that day, including our former president," the panel's Ranking Republican Charles Grassley said.

"Now, in the wake of January&nbsp;6, we must seriously examine the threats of domestic extremism."

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin said the government has not done enough to protect against threats from far-right extremists and white supremacists, and accused the Trump administration for playing down those threats.

He added that the Trump administration "never set up a task force to combat the numerous incidents" from the far-right, and instead focused on Black Lives Matter activists.

FBI Director Chris Wray on Tuesday accused supporters of Donald Trump who carried out a deadly attack on the US Capitol of domestic terrorism and vowed to hold them accountable.

FBI Director Chris Wray on Tuesday accused supporters of Donald Trump who carried out a deadly attack on the US Capitol of domestic terrorism and vowed to hold them accountable. "I was appalled that you, our country's elected leaders, were victimized right here in these very halls," Wray testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee. ''That siege was criminal behaviour, pure and simple. It's behaviour that we, the FBI, view as domestic terrorism." In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police It was Wray's first testimony in Congress since the attack, a failed bid to block Congress from certifying Joe Biden's November election victory, was carried out by supporters of then-President Trump who, in a speech near the White House, exhorted them to march to the Capitol in protest. The Justice Department has charged more than 300 people on criminal counts ranging from conspiracy to attacking police and obstructing Congress. The rioting led to five deaths. At least 18 people associated with the far-right Proud Boys have been charged and nine people tied to the anti-government militia known as the Oath Keepers are facing charges they conspired as far back as November to storm the Capitol to prevent Biden from becoming president. The FBI has not yet arrested any suspects in the death of Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick, or for pipe bombs that were discovered outside the headquarters of both the Republican and Democratic national committees. The FBI has obtained a video that shows a suspect spraying bear spray on police officers, including Sicknick, according to a law enforcement source familiar with the investigation. The suspect has not yet been identified by name, and it is still not clear if the bear spray contributed to Sicknick's death. In a newly unsealed search warrant, investigators say rioters carried weapons inside the Capitol including tire irons, sledgehammers, tasers, bear spray and, in at least one case, a handgun with an extended magazine. "Everyone involved must take responsibility for their actions that day, including our former president," the panel's Ranking Republican Charles Grassley said. "Now, in the wake of January 6, we must seriously examine the threats of domestic extremism." Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin said the government has not done enough to protect against threats from far-right extremists and white supremacists, and accused the Trump administration for playing down those threats. He added that the Trump administration "never set up a task force to combat the numerous incidents" from the far-right, and instead focused on Black Lives Matter activists.

FBI Director Chris Wray accuses Capitol Hill attackers of domestic terrorism

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war".&nbsp;

In the first congressional hearing on Senate on the attack, security officials pointed that there were not even "remote" and "improbable" chances of a probable violence by the assessments made by intelligence officials.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"No entity, including the FBI, provided any intelligence indicating that there would be a coordinated violent attack on the United States Capitol by thousands of well-equipped armed insurrectionists," said the US Capitol Police's then-chief Steven Sund.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defence-says-trump-bears-no-responsibility-for-us-capitol-attack-as-impeachment-trial-set-to-conclude-363294">Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude</a>

Sund also said that the officials had prepared for a protest, but not "a military-style coordinated assault".

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) sent a report to the US Capitol Police that the rioters arrived in Washington "ready for war".&nbsp;

In the testimony, &nbsp;police chiefs and the House and Senate sergeants told the Senate how they were outnumbered by armed and coordinated attackers.&nbsp;

Washington's acting police chief Robert Contee said his cops were literally "fighting for their lives" on the day of the assault.&nbsp;

The assault on the US Capitol that left five people dead including one police officer drew condemnation from across the world.

Sund, House sergeant-at-arms Paul Irving and Senate sergeant-at-arms Michael Stenger were the top officials who resigned after the incident.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war".

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war". In the first congressional hearing on Senate on the attack, security officials pointed that there were not even "remote" and "improbable" chances of a probable violence by the assessments made by intelligence officials. Watch | "No entity, including the FBI, provided any intelligence indicating that there would be a coordinated violent attack on the United States Capitol by thousands of well-equipped armed insurrectionists," said the US Capitol Police's then-chief Steven Sund. Also read | Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude Sund also said that the officials had prepared for a protest, but not "a military-style coordinated assault". The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) sent a report to the US Capitol Police that the rioters arrived in Washington "ready for war". In the testimony, police chiefs and the House and Senate sergeants told the Senate how they were outnumbered by armed and coordinated attackers. Washington's acting police chief Robert Contee said his cops were literally "fighting for their lives" on the day of the assault. The assault on the US Capitol that left five people dead including one police officer drew condemnation from across the world. Sund, House sergeant-at-arms Paul Irving and Senate sergeant-at-arms Michael Stenger were the top officials who resigned after the incident.

US Capitol riot: Security officials say rioters came 'ready for war'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's </a>impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's </a>election win.&nbsp;

His lawyers argued that his comments, including an aggressive speech asking his supporters to "fight like hell" were protected by the First Amendment of the country's constitution.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"To claim that the president in any way wished, desired or encouraged lawless or violent behaviour is a preposterous and monstrous lie," Michael van der Veen, one of Trump's lawyers said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-trial-defense-denounces-trial-as-act-of-political-vengeance-363266">Trump impeachment trial: Defense denounces trial as 'act of political vengeance'</a>

He also said that the impeachment was an "act of political vengeance" and the Senate should reject it "promptly" and "decisively".&nbsp;

The arguments followed two days of evidence presented by the Democratic impeachment managers to substantiate their claim that the former US president incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol.&nbsp;

The Democrats revealed the never-seen-before video footage of the day US Capitol in which armed rioters were seen wildly looking for Democrats' Nancy Pelosi and former Vice President Mike Pence, two political leaders who were supposed to carry out important duties to certify Biden's win.&nbsp;

In the footage, members of the Congress were seen running for their lives, including Pence along with his family, and some even narrowly escaping the possible attack from the protesters.

Donald Trump's impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President Joe Biden's election win.

Donald Trump's impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President Joe Biden's election win. His lawyers argued that his comments, including an aggressive speech asking his supporters to "fight like hell" were protected by the First Amendment of the country's constitution. Watch | "To claim that the president in any way wished, desired or encouraged lawless or violent behaviour is a preposterous and monstrous lie," Michael van der Veen, one of Trump's lawyers said. Also read | Trump impeachment trial: Defense denounces trial as 'act of political vengeance' He also said that the impeachment was an "act of political vengeance" and the Senate should reject it "promptly" and "decisively". The arguments followed two days of evidence presented by the Democratic impeachment managers to substantiate their claim that the former US president incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol. The Democrats revealed the never-seen-before video footage of the day US Capitol in which armed rioters were seen wildly looking for Democrats' Nancy Pelosi and former Vice President Mike Pence, two political leaders who were supposed to carry out important duties to certify Biden's win. In the footage, members of the Congress were seen running for their lives, including Pence along with his family, and some even narrowly escaping the possible attack from the protesters.

Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> historic second impeachment trial, which opens Tuesday, will follow rules codified in 1868, but the proceedings will run on a tight schedule agreed by Republicans and Democrats.

Pre-trial formalities

After the Capitol riots of January 6, the House of Representatives formally accused Trump of "incitement of insurrection" on January 13, just a week before the defeated president left office.

On January 25, the article of impeachment was delivered by House "managers" to the Senate, the upper chamber.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-donald-trumps-legal-team-blasts-absurd-impeachment-on-eve-of-trial-362293" hreflang="en">Former US President Donald Trump's legal team blasts 'absurd' impeachment on eve of trial</a>

The next day, 100 senators were sworn in as jurors. They negotiated how the case would unfurl at the same time that Joe Biden's new administration works to secure key appointments and to pass a massive Covid economic package.

The trial will take place every afternoon, and the schedule could continue through the weekend after one of Trump's attorneys withdrew his request that the Senate pause on Saturday for religious reasons.

Debate on trial legality

Tuesday will open on legal debate, with Trump's team arguing he cannot even be tried in the Senate since he has left power.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-what-if-they-held-an-impeachment-trial-and-nobody-came-362280" hreflang="en">Opinion: What if they held an impeachment trial and nobody came?</a>

Democrats will respond that there is precedent, and that the former president must be tried to dissuade future attempts to overturn election results.

Each side will have two hours to present its arguments, and the senators will then vote, by a simple majority, on whether to proceed.

With Democrats narrowly in control of the Senate, the trial is unlikely to end there.

Opening arguments

From Wednesday, the prosecution and then the defense will have 16 hours each to present their arguments.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-second-impeachment-trial-to-open-with-debate-on-constitutionality-source-362264" hreflang="en">Trump's second impeachment trial to open with debate on constitutionality: Source</a>

Democrats prosecutors, led by Jamie Raskin, are expected to show videos of Trump's supporters storming the Capitol -- and Trump's incendiary speech just before the riot.

"You'll never take back our country with weakness," Trump told the crowd outside the nearby White House, urging them to "fight like hell."

In return, his lawyers may present speeches by Democrats allegedly whipping up unrest, and will say Trump's speech is protected by freedom of expression.

Oral arguments will could end Friday, or extend into early next week.

Senators' questions

Senators are expected to then have four hours to put questions to both parties.

The two sides will speak again for one hour each if they wish to request or contest summoning of witnesses or additional evidence.

The requests will be decided by simple-majority vote. Both the Democrats and Republicans may wish to move quickly to complete the trial.

The Democrats want to move on and implement Biden's agenda, while the Republicans want to present the trial as a quick and conclusive win.

The verdict

In the final stage, prosecution will have two hours to deliver its indictment and the defense two hours to respond.

Senators can then retire to deliberate and come to a verdict.

According to the Constitution, it will take a two-thirds majority, or 67 senators, for Trump to be found guilty -- a threshold that is not expected to be met.

If he was nevertheless convicted, senators would still have to vote by a simple majority on wheher to bar him from holding office again.&nbsp;

Donald Trump's historic second impeachment trial, which opens Tuesday, will follow rules codified in 1868, but the proceedings will run on a tight schedule agreed by Republicans and Democrats.

Donald Trump's historic second impeachment trial, which opens Tuesday, will follow rules codified in 1868, but the proceedings will run on a tight schedule agreed by Republicans and Democrats. Pre-trial formalities After the Capitol riots of January 6, the House of Representatives formally accused Trump of "incitement of insurrection" on January 13, just a week before the defeated president left office. On January 25, the article of impeachment was delivered by House "managers" to the Senate, the upper chamber. Also read| Former US President Donald Trump's legal team blasts 'absurd' impeachment on eve of trial The next day, 100 senators were sworn in as jurors. They negotiated how the case would unfurl at the same time that Joe Biden's new administration works to secure key appointments and to pass a massive Covid economic package. The trial will take place every afternoon, and the schedule could continue through the weekend after one of Trump's attorneys withdrew his request that the Senate pause on Saturday for religious reasons. Debate on trial legality Tuesday will open on legal debate, with Trump's team arguing he cannot even be tried in the Senate since he has left power. Also read| Opinion: What if they held an impeachment trial and nobody came? Democrats will respond that there is precedent, and that the former president must be tried to dissuade future attempts to overturn election results. Each side will have two hours to present its arguments, and the senators will then vote, by a simple majority, on whether to proceed. With Democrats narrowly in control of the Senate, the trial is unlikely to end there. Opening arguments From Wednesday, the prosecution and then the defense will have 16 hours each to present their arguments. Also read| Trump's second impeachment trial to open with debate on constitutionality: Source Democrats prosecutors, led by Jamie Raskin, are expected to show videos of Trump's supporters storming the Capitol -- and Trump's incendiary speech just before the riot. "You'll never take back our country with weakness," Trump told the crowd outside the nearby White House, urging them to "fight like hell." In return, his lawyers may present speeches by Democrats allegedly whipping up unrest, and will say Trump's speech is protected by freedom of expression. Oral arguments will could end Friday, or extend into early next week. Senators' questions Senators are expected to then have four hours to put questions to both parties. The two sides will speak again for one hour each if they wish to request or contest summoning of witnesses or additional evidence. The requests will be decided by simple-majority vote. Both the Democrats and Republicans may wish to move quickly to complete the trial. The Democrats want to move on and implement Biden's agenda, while the Republicans want to present the trial as a quick and conclusive win. The verdict In the final stage, prosecution will have two hours to deliver its indictment and the defense two hours to respond. Senators can then retire to deliberate and come to a verdict. According to the Constitution, it will take a two-thirds majority, or 67 senators, for Trump to be found guilty -- a threshold that is not expected to be met. If he was nevertheless convicted, senators would still have to vote by a simple majority on wheher to bar him from holding office again.

Fast pace expected for Trump's second impeachment trial

Donald Trump`s second impeachment trial, on a charge of inciting the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol, is to begin on Tuesday with a debate on whether the proceedings are unconstitutional because he is no longer president, a source said.

The trial on a charge of inciting insurrection in a fiery speech to his supporters before they attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6 will then feature up to 32 hours of debate beginning on Wednesday at noon, said the source familiar with the discussions.

Trump`s legal defense team is due to file a brief with the Senate on Monday. The nine Democratic House of Representatives lawmakers who will serve as prosecutors hope to persuade members of the 100-seat Senate to convict Trump and bar him from ever again holding public office.

Republican Trump ended his four-year term on Jan. 20, having lost the Nov. 3 election to Democrat Joe Biden.

A failed bid last month to dismiss the case against Trump on the basis that it would be unconstitutional to hold a post-presidency trial drew the support of 45 of the 50 Republicans in the Senate. The House prosecutors rejected that argument in their brief filed with the Senate last week. They argued for Trump`s conviction to protect American democracy and national security and to deter any future president who might consider provoking violence in the pursuit of power. They argued that Trump had a "singular responsibility" for the Capitol attack.

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/preparations-for-donald-trumps-impeachment-trial-begin-in-us-362250">Preparations for Donald Trump's impeachment trial begin in US</a>

To secure a conviction, 17 Republicans would need to join the Senate`s 50 Democrats in the vote, a daunting hurdle.

Monday`s deadline for the filing by Trump`s legal team comes as the defense prepares to emphasize its argument - laid out in an earlier filing - that the Senate lacks the constitutional authority to conduct the trial now that he has left office and is a private citizen. Challenging the case against Trump on such grounds would enable his fellow Republicans in the Senate to vote against conviction without directly defending his inflammatory speech to supporters shortly before the riot.

The Democratic-led House impeached Trump on Jan. 13 on a single charge of inciting insurrection, focused on that speech. He is the first U.S. president to be impeached twice and the first to face trial after leaving office.

In his Jan. 6 speech, Trump repeated false claims that the election was fraudulent and exhorted supporters to march on the Capitol, telling them to "stop the steal," "show strength" and "fight like hell." The rampage interrupted the formal congressional certification of Biden`s election victory, sent lawmakers into hiding for their own safety and left five people dead including a police officer.

Both parties may have an interest in completing the trial expeditiously. Biden since taking office has called for healing and unity in a nation that was left deeply polarized after Trump`s presidency.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-in-us-senate-back-former-president-trump-on-eve-of-impeachment-trial-362154" hreflang="en">Republicans in US Senate back former President Trump on eve of impeachment trial</a>

Democrats hold slim majorities in both the House and Senate, and the trial could make it more difficult for Congress to pass Biden`s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan and complete the confirmation of nominees to government posts.

Trump`s false claims of a stolen election and his speech before the riot have left fissures in his party. Ten Republicans joined House Democrats in voting to impeach Trump.

Trump`s first impeachment trial, on charges of abuse of power and obstructing Congress arising from his request that Ukraine investigate Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in acquittal by the then-Republican-led Senate.

Trump parted ways with his initial legal team amid a reported dispute over how to respond to the impeachment charge.

The Senate will pause the impeachment trial from Friday evening to Saturday evening to honor a request by a Trump attorney, David Schoen, who observes the Jewish Sabbath, a spokesman for Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on Sunday.

Donald Trump`s second impeachment trial, on a charge of inciting the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol, is to begin on Tuesday with a debate on whether the proceedings are unconstitutional because he is no longer president, a source said.

Donald Trump`s second impeachment trial, on a charge of inciting the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol, is to begin on Tuesday with a debate on whether the proceedings are unconstitutional because he is no longer president, a source said. The trial on a charge of inciting insurrection in a fiery speech to his supporters before they attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6 will then feature up to 32 hours of debate beginning on Wednesday at noon, said the source familiar with the discussions. Trump`s legal defense team is due to file a brief with the Senate on Monday. The nine Democratic House of Representatives lawmakers who will serve as prosecutors hope to persuade members of the 100-seat Senate to convict Trump and bar him from ever again holding public office. Republican Trump ended his four-year term on Jan. 20, having lost the Nov. 3 election to Democrat Joe Biden. A failed bid last month to dismiss the case against Trump on the basis that it would be unconstitutional to hold a post-presidency trial drew the support of 45 of the 50 Republicans in the Senate. The House prosecutors rejected that argument in their brief filed with the Senate last week. They argued for Trump`s conviction to protect American democracy and national security and to deter any future president who might consider provoking violence in the pursuit of power. They argued that Trump had a "singular responsibility" for the Capitol attack. Have a look| Preparations for Donald Trump's impeachment trial begin in US To secure a conviction, 17 Republicans would need to join the Senate`s 50 Democrats in the vote, a daunting hurdle. Monday`s deadline for the filing by Trump`s legal team comes as the defense prepares to emphasize its argument - laid out in an earlier filing - that the Senate lacks the constitutional authority to conduct the trial now that he has left office and is a private citizen. Challenging the case against Trump on such grounds would enable his fellow Republicans in the Senate to vote against conviction without directly defending his inflammatory speech to supporters shortly before the riot. The Democratic-led House impeached Trump on Jan. 13 on a single charge of inciting insurrection, focused on that speech. He is the first U.S. president to be impeached twice and the first to face trial after leaving office. In his Jan. 6 speech, Trump repeated false claims that the election was fraudulent and exhorted supporters to march on the Capitol, telling them to "stop the steal," "show strength" and "fight like hell." The rampage interrupted the formal congressional certification of Biden`s election victory, sent lawmakers into hiding for their own safety and left five people dead including a police officer. Both parties may have an interest in completing the trial expeditiously. Biden since taking office has called for healing and unity in a nation that was left deeply polarized after Trump`s presidency. Also read| Republicans in US Senate back former President Trump on eve of impeachment trial Democrats hold slim majorities in both the House and Senate, and the trial could make it more difficult for Congress to pass Biden`s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan and complete the confirmation of nominees to government posts. Trump`s false claims of a stolen election and his speech before the riot have left fissures in his party. Ten Republicans joined House Democrats in voting to impeach Trump. Trump`s first impeachment trial, on charges of abuse of power and obstructing Congress arising from his request that Ukraine investigate Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in acquittal by the then-Republican-led Senate. Trump parted ways with his initial legal team amid a reported dispute over how to respond to the impeachment charge. The Senate will pause the impeachment trial from Friday evening to Saturday evening to honor a request by a Trump attorney, David Schoen, who observes the Jewish Sabbath, a spokesman for Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on Sunday.

Trump's second impeachment trial to open with debate on constitutionality: Source

The impeachment trial for the former US President Donald Trump will be paused from Friday evening to Saturday evening, the US Senate has announced.

This decision was taken after one of Trump's attorney who observes the Jewish Sabbath had requested the Senate to allow him to practice the ritual and pause the trial.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lawyer-asks-to-pause-impeachment-trial-if-it-runs-into-sabbath-362014">Trump lawyer asks to pause impeachment trial if it runs into Sabbath</a>

Trump's attorney, David Schoen, had sent a letter to top US Senators and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer on Tuesday requesting the impeachment proceedings to be paused during the Sabbath, which will last from Friday to Saturday evening.

"I apologize for the inconvenience my request that impeachment proceedings not be conducted during the Jewish Sabbath undoubtedly will cause other people involved in the proceedings," Schoen said in the letter obtained by The New York Times. "The practices and prohibitions are mandatory for me, however; so, respectfully, I have no choice but to make this request."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-rejects-invite-to-testify-at-impeachment-trial-after-capitol-riots-361597" hreflang="en">Donald Trump rejects invite to testify at impeachment trial after Capitol riots</a>

"We respect their request and of course will accommodate it," Chuck Schumer's spokesman Justin Goodman said a few days after the request was made.

However, this has also raised questions on the timeframe of the impeachment trial, which is due to begin on Tuesday. This one day delay has brought questions about how long will it take to finish the much-awaited trial.

Meanwhile, Trump's lawyers and a few other Republican senators are also challenging the constitutionality of the trial as they argue that since Trump has left the office, he cannot be removed now.

The impeachment trial for the former US President Donald Trump will be paused from Friday evening to Saturday evening, the US Senate has announced. This decision was taken after one of Trump's attorney who observes the Jewish Sabbath had requested the Senate to allow him to practice the ritual and pause the trial.

The impeachment trial for the former US President Donald Trump will be paused from Friday evening to Saturday evening, the US Senate has announced. This decision was taken after one of Trump's attorney who observes the Jewish Sabbath had requested the Senate to allow him to practice the ritual and pause the trial. Also read| Trump lawyer asks to pause impeachment trial if it runs into Sabbath Trump's attorney, David Schoen, had sent a letter to top US Senators and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer on Tuesday requesting the impeachment proceedings to be paused during the Sabbath, which will last from Friday to Saturday evening. "I apologize for the inconvenience my request that impeachment proceedings not be conducted during the Jewish Sabbath undoubtedly will cause other people involved in the proceedings," Schoen said in the letter obtained by The New York Times. "The practices and prohibitions are mandatory for me, however; so, respectfully, I have no choice but to make this request." Also read| Donald Trump rejects invite to testify at impeachment trial after Capitol riots "We respect their request and of course will accommodate it," Chuck Schumer's spokesman Justin Goodman said a few days after the request was made. However, this has also raised questions on the timeframe of the impeachment trial, which is due to begin on Tuesday. This one day delay has brought questions about how long will it take to finish the much-awaited trial. Meanwhile, Trump's lawyers and a few other Republican senators are also challenging the constitutionality of the trial as they argue that since Trump has left the office, he cannot be removed now.

Donald Trump's impeachment trial to be paused for Sabbath

Democrats and Republicans eager to tidily conclude former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump’s</a> impeachment trial within a week may have a fresh obstacle in front of them: the biblical commandment to keep the Jewish Sabbath.

One of the lead defense lawyers for Trump has informed Senate leaders that he is an observant Jew who strictly adheres to the commandment against working on the Sabbath and thus would be unable to participate in any proceeding that stretched past sundown Friday or met Saturday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-rejects-invite-to-testify-at-impeachment-trial-after-capitol-riots-361597" hreflang="en">Donald Trump rejects invite to testify at impeachment trial after Capitol riots</a>

In a letter obtained by The New York Times, the lawyer, David Schoen, asked that the trial be suspended if it was not finished by the beginning of the Sabbath at 5:24 p.m. Friday and that it not reconvene until Sunday.

“I apologize for the inconvenience my request that impeachment proceedings not be conducted during the Jewish Sabbath undoubtedly will cause other people involved in the proceedings,” Schoen said in the letter. “The practices and prohibitions are mandatory for me, however; so, respectfully, I have no choice but to make this request.”

The letter was sent to Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., the majority leader; Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., the minority leader; and Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., who as president pro tempore is presiding over the trial.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-impeachment-lawyer-says-would-be-idiotic-insane-to-suggest-election-fraud-361158" hreflang="en">Trump's impeachment lawyer says would be 'idiotic', 'insane' to suggest election fraud</a>

In a statement Saturday evening, a spokesperson for Schumer said an allowance would be made for Schoen but did not elaborate on how.

While the leaders have yet to agree on a precise timetable for the trial, which is set to begin Tuesday, people familiar with the process had said they were planning for a proceeding that was very likely to stretch into the night Friday and continue Saturday.

Members of both parties are hoping for a speedy trial. Democrats, knowing there are almost certainly not enough votes to convict Trump, want the process over quickly to avoid any further distractions from President Joe Biden’s agenda, particularly his push to quickly pass a stimulus bill and confirm the remainder of his Cabinet. Republicans, who have been badly divided by the push to impeach Trump and do not relish a detailed discussion of his role in provoking the mob that attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, have their own reasons for wanting the trial over with quickly.

Democrats and Republicans eager to tidily conclude former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial within a week may have a fresh obstacle in front of them: the biblical commandment to keep the Jewish Sabbath.

Democrats and Republicans eager to tidily conclude former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial within a week may have a fresh obstacle in front of them: the biblical commandment to keep the Jewish Sabbath. One of the lead defense lawyers for Trump has informed Senate leaders that he is an observant Jew who strictly adheres to the commandment against working on the Sabbath and thus would be unable to participate in any proceeding that stretched past sundown Friday or met Saturday. Also read| Donald Trump rejects invite to testify at impeachment trial after Capitol riots In a letter obtained by The New York Times, the lawyer, David Schoen, asked that the trial be suspended if it was not finished by the beginning of the Sabbath at 5:24 p.m. Friday and that it not reconvene until Sunday. “I apologize for the inconvenience my request that impeachment proceedings not be conducted during the Jewish Sabbath undoubtedly will cause other people involved in the proceedings,” Schoen said in the letter. “The practices and prohibitions are mandatory for me, however; so, respectfully, I have no choice but to make this request.” The letter was sent to Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., the majority leader; Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., the minority leader; and Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., who as president pro tempore is presiding over the trial. Also read| Trump's impeachment lawyer says would be 'idiotic', 'insane' to suggest election fraud In a statement Saturday evening, a spokesperson for Schumer said an allowance would be made for Schoen but did not elaborate on how. While the leaders have yet to agree on a precise timetable for the trial, which is set to begin Tuesday, people familiar with the process had said they were planning for a proceeding that was very likely to stretch into the night Friday and continue Saturday. Members of both parties are hoping for a speedy trial. Democrats, knowing there are almost certainly not enough votes to convict Trump, want the process over quickly to avoid any further distractions from President Joe Biden’s agenda, particularly his push to quickly pass a stimulus bill and confirm the remainder of his Cabinet. Republicans, who have been badly divided by the push to impeach Trump and do not relish a detailed discussion of his role in provoking the mob that attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, have their own reasons for wanting the trial over with quickly.

Trump lawyer asks to pause impeachment trial if it runs into Sabbath

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes.

America's top security and law enforcement agency, the FBI, filed an affidavit this week against the Massachusetts man Brian McCreary who has been accused of inciting violence and disruption in the US Capitol at the beginning of January 2021.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-53-years-wallet-lost-in-antarctica-reaches-91-year-old-owner-361761" hreflang="en">After 53 years, wallet lost in Antarctica reaches 91-year-old owner</a>

While the charges and the affidavit were expected, what came as a surprise — or rather a shock — was that the picture they included in this affidavit was one of the viral pictures available on the internet, which has been circulating as a meme.

In the document submitted by the FBI, there is a picture hanging on the wall behind the 33-year-old McCreary. That wall hanging has an image of a naked man photoshopped into the picture frame.

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I’ve studied extremism for 15 years, I’ve reviewed mostly every court record for decades. I can honestly say very little surprises me. That said, I have absolutely no idea what to say about the Internet image the FBI used in a criminal complaint of the picture hanging on the wall <a href="https://t.co/nznszFmif7">pic.twitter.com/nznszFmif7</a>
— Seamus Hughes (@SeamusHughes) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeamusHughes/status/1357459933818720263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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FBI, however, forgot to mention that the image was used as a meme, or probably failed to notice it. The investigators have presented that image on the fourth page of the document as evidence of that man's violent behaviour in the Capitol that day.

The fully nude man in the photo had gained popularity on the internet through memes and has often been dubbed as 'Wood Sitting On a Bed'. Several local reports have claimed that the man in the frame is Wardy Joubert III who passed away of a heart attack in 2016.&nbsp;

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes.

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes. America's top security and law enforcement agency, the FBI, filed an affidavit this week against the Massachusetts man Brian McCreary who has been accused of inciting violence and disruption in the US Capitol at the beginning of January 2021. Also read| After 53 years, wallet lost in Antarctica reaches 91-year-old owner While the charges and the affidavit were expected, what came as a surprise — or rather a shock — was that the picture they included in this affidavit was one of the viral pictures available on the internet, which has been circulating as a meme. In the document submitted by the FBI, there is a picture hanging on the wall behind the 33-year-old McCreary. That wall hanging has an image of a naked man photoshopped into the picture frame. I’ve studied extremism for 15 years, I’ve reviewed mostly every court record for decades. I can honestly say very little surprises me. That said, I have absolutely no idea what to say about the Internet image the FBI used in a criminal complaint of the picture hanging on the wall pic.twitter.com/nznszFmif7 — Seamus Hughes (@SeamusHughes) February 4, 2021 × FBI, however, forgot to mention that the image was used as a meme, or probably failed to notice it. The investigators have presented that image on the fourth page of the document as evidence of that man's violent behaviour in the Capitol that day. The fully nude man in the photo had gained popularity on the internet through memes and has often been dubbed as 'Wood Sitting On a Bed'. Several local reports have claimed that the man in the frame is Wardy Joubert III who passed away of a heart attack in 2016.

FBI submits affidavit against Capitol riot accused with a meme image of nude man

Since Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the New York Democrat, took to Instagram Live on Monday to describe what the Jan. 6 riot was like from inside the Capitol complex, critics have claimed that she wasn’t where she said she was, or that she couldn’t have experienced what she described from her location.

These claims are false.

While Ocasio-Cortez was not in the main, domed Capitol building when the rioters breached it, she never said she was. She accurately described being in the Cannon House Office Building, which is part of the Capitol complex and is connected to the main building by tunnels.

In her livestream, Ocasio-Cortez recalled hiding in a bathroom and thinking she was going to die as unknown people entered her office and shouted, “Where is she?” They turned out to be Capitol Police officers who had not clearly identified themselves, and Ocasio-Cortez said so on Instagram. She did not claim that they were rioters — only that, from her hiding spot, she initially thought they were.

During the riot, reporters wrote on Twitter that the Cannon building was being evacuated because of credible threats and that Capitol Police officers were running through the hallways and entering offices just as Ocasio-Cortez described.

The false claims about her statements have spread widely online, much of the backlash stemming from an article on the conservative RedState blog and a livestream from right-wing commentator Steven Crowder. On Thursday, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., tweeted, “I’m two doors down from @aoc and no insurrectionists stormed our hallway.”

But Ocasio-Cortez never said insurrectionists had stormed that hallway, and Mace herself has described being frightened enough to barricade her own door.

“As the Capitol complex was stormed and people were being killed, none of us knew in the moment what areas were compromised,” Ocasio-Cortez tweeted in response to Mace’s post. (A spokeswoman for Ocasio-Cortez said the lawmaker had no additional comment.)

Others have corroborated Ocasio-Cortez’s account and confirmed that the Cannon building was threatened, even though the rioters did not ultimately breach it.

Ari Rabin-Havt, a deputy manager for Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign, tweeted that he was in the Capitol tunnels during the attack. As Rabin-Havt moved toward the Cannon building, he wrote, members of a SWAT team yelled at him to find a hiding place.

And Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., said on MSNBC that after the Cannon building was evacuated, she and Ocasio-Cortez sheltered in Porter’s office in another building. She said Ocasio-Cortez was clearly terrified, opening closets to try to find hiding places and wishing aloud that she had worn flats instead of heels in case she had to run.

Since Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the New York Democrat, took to Instagram Live on Monday to describe what the Jan. 6 riot was like from inside the Capitol complex, critics have claimed that she wasn’t where she said she was, or that she couldn’t have experienced what she described from her location.

Since Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the New York Democrat, took to Instagram Live on Monday to describe what the Jan. 6 riot was like from inside the Capitol complex, critics have claimed that she wasn’t where she said she was, or that she couldn’t have experienced what she described from her location. These claims are false. While Ocasio-Cortez was not in the main, domed Capitol building when the rioters breached it, she never said she was. She accurately described being in the Cannon House Office Building, which is part of the Capitol complex and is connected to the main building by tunnels. In her livestream, Ocasio-Cortez recalled hiding in a bathroom and thinking she was going to die as unknown people entered her office and shouted, “Where is she?” They turned out to be Capitol Police officers who had not clearly identified themselves, and Ocasio-Cortez said so on Instagram. She did not claim that they were rioters — only that, from her hiding spot, she initially thought they were. During the riot, reporters wrote on Twitter that the Cannon building was being evacuated because of credible threats and that Capitol Police officers were running through the hallways and entering offices just as Ocasio-Cortez described. The false claims about her statements have spread widely online, much of the backlash stemming from an article on the conservative RedState blog and a livestream from right-wing commentator Steven Crowder. On Thursday, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., tweeted, “I’m two doors down from @aoc and no insurrectionists stormed our hallway.” But Ocasio-Cortez never said insurrectionists had stormed that hallway, and Mace herself has described being frightened enough to barricade her own door. “As the Capitol complex was stormed and people were being killed, none of us knew in the moment what areas were compromised,” Ocasio-Cortez tweeted in response to Mace’s post. (A spokeswoman for Ocasio-Cortez said the lawmaker had no additional comment.) Others have corroborated Ocasio-Cortez’s account and confirmed that the Cannon building was threatened, even though the rioters did not ultimately breach it. Ari Rabin-Havt, a deputy manager for Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign, tweeted that he was in the Capitol tunnels during the attack. As Rabin-Havt moved toward the Cannon building, he wrote, members of a SWAT team yelled at him to find a hiding place. And Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., said on MSNBC that after the Cannon building was evacuated, she and Ocasio-Cortez sheltered in Porter’s office in another building. She said Ocasio-Cortez was clearly terrified, opening closets to try to find hiding places and wishing aloud that she had worn flats instead of heels in case she had to run.

No, Ocasio-Cortez didn't make up account of Capitol attack

The former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> lawyers have declined a request from Democrats to testify at his impeachment trial, which is scheduled in the US Senate next week.

Trump's lawyers have dismissed the invitation as a "public relations stunt". This rejection of invitation has come as the Democrats in the House of Representatives have accused Trump of inciting violence after motivating his supporters to march to the US Capitol and interfere the process of declaring Joe Biden as the next President.

He has been accused of motivating his supporters to "fight" his election defeat, which then led to a violent riot in the US Capitol and death of five people, including a Capitol police officer.

"The president will not testify in an unconstitutional proceeding," Trump's adviser Jason Miller said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-refuses-to-testify-in-unconstitutional-impeachment-trial-361492">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-refuses-to-testify-in-unconstitutional-impeachment-trial-361492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His legal team has also rejected the impeachment charges and have once again asserted Trump's claims of his election defeat being a direct result of voter fraud — that Trump has failed to prove.

In an open letter to the former TV star, Trump, and his attorneys, the Democratic lawmaker Jamie Raskin had invited the team to provide testimony under oath.

"If you decline this invitation, we reserve any and all rights, including the right to establish at trial that your refusal to testify supports a strong adverse inference regarding your actions (and inaction) on January 6, 2021," Raskin wrote in the letter.

Trump's attorney, Bruce Castor, however, said his client has the right to reject this invitation.

"The burden is on the House to prove their case," he said. "I’m not going to help them meet their burden."

The former US President Donald Trump's lawyers have declined a request from Democrats to testify at his impeachment trial, which is scheduled in the US Senate next week.

The former US President Donald Trump's lawyers have declined a request from Democrats to testify at his impeachment trial, which is scheduled in the US Senate next week. Trump's lawyers have dismissed the invitation as a "public relations stunt". This rejection of invitation has come as the Democrats in the House of Representatives have accused Trump of inciting violence after motivating his supporters to march to the US Capitol and interfere the process of declaring Joe Biden as the next President. He has been accused of motivating his supporters to "fight" his election defeat, which then led to a violent riot in the US Capitol and death of five people, including a Capitol police officer. "The president will not testify in an unconstitutional proceeding," Trump's adviser Jason Miller said. WATCH| His legal team has also rejected the impeachment charges and have once again asserted Trump's claims of his election defeat being a direct result of voter fraud — that Trump has failed to prove. In an open letter to the former TV star, Trump, and his attorneys, the Democratic lawmaker Jamie Raskin had invited the team to provide testimony under oath. "If you decline this invitation, we reserve any and all rights, including the right to establish at trial that your refusal to testify supports a strong adverse inference regarding your actions (and inaction) on January 6, 2021," Raskin wrote in the letter. Trump's attorney, Bruce Castor, however, said his client has the right to reject this invitation. "The burden is on the House to prove their case," he said. "I’m not going to help them meet their burden."

Donald Trump rejects invite to testify at impeachment trial after Capitol riots

U.S. President Joe Biden made a late-night visit to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to pay his respects to Brian Sicknick, the Capitol police officer killed when supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol last month.

In a solemn ceremony, the cremated remains of Sicknick, who died of his injuries the day after the Jan. 6 attack, arrived on Tuesday night to lay in honor in the Capitol Rotunda until midday Wednesday.

Biden and his wife, Jill, stood before the remains with their hands over their hearts in silent tribute to Sicknick.

Democratic and Republican leaders of the U.S. Congress filed into the Rotunda for the ceremony. One by one, Sicknick`s fellow Capitol Police officers approached the receptacle containing the remains and saluted. U.S. lawmakers will take their turn on Wednesday morning.

Sicknick was a casualty of the storming of the Capitol by hundreds of Trump supporters after a fiery speech in which the then-president urged them to “fight” his election loss to Biden. Four others died in the violence.

The incident led to Trump’s second impeachment and next week he will face trial in the Senate on a charge of inciting insurrection. Trump’s lawyers argued on Tuesday that lawmakers cannot legally impeach a former president and he once again stoked claims of voter fraud.

Since the 19th century, the caskets of about three dozen distinguished Americans have been honored at the Capitol. Twelve have been former presidents, who along with other government officials, judges and military leaders are said to “lie in state.”

In the Jan. 6 violence, Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit in the head, according to his father. An ambulance crew resuscitated him twice as he was rushed to a nearby hospital. He died Jan. 7 and no charges have been brought in the case.

Sicknick, who had served in the New Jersey Air National Guard, joined the Capitol Police in 2008.

The category of “laying in honor” was created after two Capitol Police officers were fatally wounded in 1998 by a gunman who ran to the offices of then-Majority Whip Tom DeLay.

Sicknick, who died at 42, is the fifth American to lay in honor at the rotunda. The other two were civil rights leader Rosa parks in 2005 and the Reverend Billy Graham in 2018.

Members of Congress will be able to view Sicknick on Wednesday morning. There will be a congressional tribute on Wednesday before a ceremonial departure.

U.S. President Joe Biden made a late-night visit to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to pay his respects to Brian Sicknick, the Capitol police officer killed when supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the U.

U.S. President Joe Biden made a late-night visit to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to pay his respects to Brian Sicknick, the Capitol police officer killed when supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol last month. In a solemn ceremony, the cremated remains of Sicknick, who died of his injuries the day after the Jan. 6 attack, arrived on Tuesday night to lay in honor in the Capitol Rotunda until midday Wednesday. Biden and his wife, Jill, stood before the remains with their hands over their hearts in silent tribute to Sicknick. Democratic and Republican leaders of the U.S. Congress filed into the Rotunda for the ceremony. One by one, Sicknick`s fellow Capitol Police officers approached the receptacle containing the remains and saluted. U.S. lawmakers will take their turn on Wednesday morning. Sicknick was a casualty of the storming of the Capitol by hundreds of Trump supporters after a fiery speech in which the then-president urged them to “fight” his election loss to Biden. Four others died in the violence. The incident led to Trump’s second impeachment and next week he will face trial in the Senate on a charge of inciting insurrection. Trump’s lawyers argued on Tuesday that lawmakers cannot legally impeach a former president and he once again stoked claims of voter fraud. Since the 19th century, the caskets of about three dozen distinguished Americans have been honored at the Capitol. Twelve have been former presidents, who along with other government officials, judges and military leaders are said to “lie in state.” In the Jan. 6 violence, Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit in the head, according to his father. An ambulance crew resuscitated him twice as he was rushed to a nearby hospital. He died Jan. 7 and no charges have been brought in the case. Sicknick, who had served in the New Jersey Air National Guard, joined the Capitol Police in 2008. The category of “laying in honor” was created after two Capitol Police officers were fatally wounded in 1998 by a gunman who ran to the offices of then-Majority Whip Tom DeLay. Sicknick, who died at 42, is the fifth American to lay in honor at the rotunda. The other two were civil rights leader Rosa parks in 2005 and the Reverend Billy Graham in 2018. Members of Congress will be able to view Sicknick on Wednesday morning. There will be a congressional tribute on Wednesday before a ceremonial departure.

In visit to Capitol, Biden honours police officer killed in Jan 6 assault

The Democratic lawmakers who will prosecute former President Donald Trump at his second impeachment trial urged the Senate on Tuesday to convict him, saying he pointed a mob "like a loaded cannon" at the U.S. Capitol before a deadly Jan. 6 rampage.

In a brief filed a week before the Senate trial is set to begin, nine House of Representatives lawmakers known as impeachment managers also rejected Republican claims that it would be unconstitutional to try Trump since he became a private citizen after leaving office on Jan. 20. The Democrats urged the Senate to bar Trump from holding office again.

Trump also faced a Tuesday deadline to respond to the article of impeachment passed by the Democratic-led House on Jan. 13 charging him with inciting insurrection in his speech to supporters before rioters stormed the Capitol, leaving five people dead including a police officer.

"President Trump`s conduct offends everything that the Constitution stands for," the managers wrote in an 80-page brief that noted that Trump had begun voicing his intention to contest an election loss months before the Nov. 3 election was held.

"He summoned a mob to Washington, exhorted them into a frenzy, and aimed them like a loaded cannon down Pennsylvania Avenue.

As the Capitol was overrun, President Trump was reportedly `delighted,`" they said.

During his Jan. 6 speech, Trump repeated false claims that the election was fraudulent and exhorted supporters to march on the

Capitol, telling them to "stop the steal," "show strength" and "fight like hell." The rampage interrupted the formal congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden`s election victory and sent lawmakers into hiding for their own safety.

"The Senate must make clear to him and all who follow that a president who provokes armed violence against the government of the United States in an effort to overturn the results of an election will face trial and judgment," the Democratic managers added.

Trump is just the third president to have been impeached, the first to be impeached twice and the first to face trial after leaving office. Members of the 100-seat Senate will serve as jurors in his trial.

Convicting Trump would require a two-thirds majority, meaning 17 Republicans would need to join the Senate`s 50 Democrats in the vote. That presents a daunting hurdle. Last week, 45 of the 50 Republican senators voted in favor of a failed bid to dismiss the impeachment charge as unconstitutional because Trump has left office.

A conviction could lead to a second vote banning Trump from holding public office again.

TRUMP RESPONSE DUE

The Tuesday deadline for a response by Trump comes just days after he parted ways with his initial legal team amid a reported dispute over how to respond to the charge. Trump is still making his false claims of a stolen election.

One of Trump`s recently hired lawyers, David Schoen, called the impeachment process "completely unconstitutional" in an interview with Fox News on Monday but did not outline the former president`s legal strategy.

"I think it`s also the most ill-advised legislative action that I`ve seen in my lifetime," Schoen said. "It is tearing the country apart at a time when we don`t need anything like that."

In their brief, the Democratic impeachment managers said the Senate has jurisdiction to try Trump now because the House impeached him while in office for acts he committed as president.

"There is no `January Exception` to impeachment or any other provision of the Constitution," the managers said.

The brief made no mention of any witnesses the managers planned to call during the trial, though it did cite a phone call Trump placed to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger urging him to "find" just enough votes to undo Biden`s victory in that state.

Trump`s first impeachment trial, on charges of abuse of power and obstructing Congress arising from his request that Ukraine investigate Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in acquittal by the then Republican-led Senate.

A group of Republican former officials rebutted the argument that the trial was unconstitutional in an open letter released on Tuesday.

It is "essential to focus the nation on the gravity of what Mr. Trump did," the group said in a statement.

The three dozen former officials signing the letter included former Governors Christine Todd Whitman of New Jersey and William Weld of Massachusetts and Carter Phillips, a veteran Washington litigator and assistant solicitor general under former President Ronald Reagan.

"It will be a permanent stain on the history of the Republican Party and the legacy of its members in the U.S. Senate if they fail to find a way&nbsp;to hold a president of their party to account for this unprecedented mayhem at our nation`s Capitol," the group wrote.

The Democratic lawmakers who will prosecute former President Donald Trump at his second impeachment trial urged the Senate on Tuesday to convict him, saying he pointed a mob "like a loaded cannon" at the U.

The Democratic lawmakers who will prosecute former President Donald Trump at his second impeachment trial urged the Senate on Tuesday to convict him, saying he pointed a mob "like a loaded cannon" at the U.S. Capitol before a deadly Jan. 6 rampage. In a brief filed a week before the Senate trial is set to begin, nine House of Representatives lawmakers known as impeachment managers also rejected Republican claims that it would be unconstitutional to try Trump since he became a private citizen after leaving office on Jan. 20. The Democrats urged the Senate to bar Trump from holding office again. Trump also faced a Tuesday deadline to respond to the article of impeachment passed by the Democratic-led House on Jan. 13 charging him with inciting insurrection in his speech to supporters before rioters stormed the Capitol, leaving five people dead including a police officer. "President Trump`s conduct offends everything that the Constitution stands for," the managers wrote in an 80-page brief that noted that Trump had begun voicing his intention to contest an election loss months before the Nov. 3 election was held. "He summoned a mob to Washington, exhorted them into a frenzy, and aimed them like a loaded cannon down Pennsylvania Avenue. As the Capitol was overrun, President Trump was reportedly `delighted,`" they said. During his Jan. 6 speech, Trump repeated false claims that the election was fraudulent and exhorted supporters to march on the Capitol, telling them to "stop the steal," "show strength" and "fight like hell." The rampage interrupted the formal congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden`s election victory and sent lawmakers into hiding for their own safety. "The Senate must make clear to him and all who follow that a president who provokes armed violence against the government of the United States in an effort to overturn the results of an election will face trial and judgment," the Democratic managers added. Trump is just the third president to have been impeached, the first to be impeached twice and the first to face trial after leaving office. Members of the 100-seat Senate will serve as jurors in his trial. Convicting Trump would require a two-thirds majority, meaning 17 Republicans would need to join the Senate`s 50 Democrats in the vote. That presents a daunting hurdle. Last week, 45 of the 50 Republican senators voted in favor of a failed bid to dismiss the impeachment charge as unconstitutional because Trump has left office. A conviction could lead to a second vote banning Trump from holding public office again. TRUMP RESPONSE DUE The Tuesday deadline for a response by Trump comes just days after he parted ways with his initial legal team amid a reported dispute over how to respond to the charge. Trump is still making his false claims of a stolen election. One of Trump`s recently hired lawyers, David Schoen, called the impeachment process "completely unconstitutional" in an interview with Fox News on Monday but did not outline the former president`s legal strategy. "I think it`s also the most ill-advised legislative action that I`ve seen in my lifetime," Schoen said. "It is tearing the country apart at a time when we don`t need anything like that." In their brief, the Democratic impeachment managers said the Senate has jurisdiction to try Trump now because the House impeached him while in office for acts he committed as president. "There is no `January Exception` to impeachment or any other provision of the Constitution," the managers said. The brief made no mention of any witnesses the managers planned to call during the trial, though it did cite a phone call Trump placed to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger urging him to "find" just enough votes to undo Biden`s victory in that state. Trump`s first impeachment trial, on charges of abuse of power and obstructing Congress arising from his request that Ukraine investigate Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in acquittal by the then Republican-led Senate. A group of Republican former officials rebutted the argument that the trial was unconstitutional in an open letter released on Tuesday. It is "essential to focus the nation on the gravity of what Mr. Trump did," the group said in a statement. The three dozen former officials signing the letter included former Governors Christine Todd Whitman of New Jersey and William Weld of Massachusetts and Carter Phillips, a veteran Washington litigator and assistant solicitor general under former President Ronald Reagan. "It will be a permanent stain on the history of the Republican Party and the legacy of its members in the U.S. Senate if they fail to find a way to hold a president of their party to account for this unprecedented mayhem at our nation`s Capitol," the group wrote.

Trump aimed mob like a 'loaded cannon' before Capitol siege, House Democrats say

An heiress to the Publix Super Markets chain donated about $300,000 to fund a rally that preceded the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol this month by supporters of former President Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.

The Journal said the funding from Julie Jenkins Fancelli, a prominent donor to Trump`s 2020 campaign, was facilitated by far-right show host Alex Jones. It said her money paid for the lion`s share of the roughly $500,000 rally at the Ellipse park where Trump spoke and urged his supporters to "to fight."

More than 135 people have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol as Congress met to certify Democrat Joe Biden`s victory in the November election. Five people including a Capitol Police officer died.

According to the Journal, Jones personally pledged more than $50,000 in seed money for the rally in exchange for a speaking slot of his choice. Jones, who has publicized discredited conspiracy theories, has hosted leaders of the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers, two extremist groups that were prominent at the riot, on his popular radio and internet video shows, it said.

Jones did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Fancelli could not immediately be reached for comment.

In a Twitter post, Publix Super Markets said Fancelli is not an employee of the chain, "and is neither involved in our business operations, nor does she represent the company in any way. We cannot comment on Mrs. Fancelli`s actions."

An heiress to the Publix Super Markets chain donated about $300,000 to fund a rally that preceded the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol this month by supporters of former President Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.

An heiress to the Publix Super Markets chain donated about $300,000 to fund a rally that preceded the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol this month by supporters of former President Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday. The Journal said the funding from Julie Jenkins Fancelli, a prominent donor to Trump`s 2020 campaign, was facilitated by far-right show host Alex Jones. It said her money paid for the lion`s share of the roughly $500,000 rally at the Ellipse park where Trump spoke and urged his supporters to "to fight." More than 135 people have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol as Congress met to certify Democrat Joe Biden`s victory in the November election. Five people including a Capitol Police officer died. According to the Journal, Jones personally pledged more than $50,000 in seed money for the rally in exchange for a speaking slot of his choice. Jones, who has publicized discredited conspiracy theories, has hosted leaders of the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers, two extremist groups that were prominent at the riot, on his popular radio and internet video shows, it said. Jones did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Fancelli could not immediately be reached for comment. In a Twitter post, Publix Super Markets said Fancelli is not an employee of the chain, "and is neither involved in our business operations, nor does she represent the company in any way. We cannot comment on Mrs. Fancelli`s actions."

Top Trump donor funded rally that preceded US Capitol riot, report says

A decision to turn a chilly underground parking garage into an overnight billet for National Guard troops in Washington to protect President Joe Biden's inauguration has stirred an uproar.

A number of the 25,000 troops standing guard around the US Capitol in recent days in the wake of the January 6 insurrection had been allowed to take breaks and naps in between long shifts on the floors of the building housing the US Congress.

But on Thursday afternoon, after the legislature resumed work a day after the Biden inauguration, someone decided instead to force them out to a nearby parking garage.

Photos that spread quickly over the internet showed guardsmen and women stretched out under flourescent lights in parking slots, with few toilets, outlets for charging phones, or other facilities available.

Many members of Congress, noting that many of the troops came from their constituencies, voiced outrage.

"This is an insult to all National Guard units that followed orders and served in the cold and rain through the night without fail.&nbsp;They protected our Capitol when we needed them most," said Representative Brendan Boyle on Twitter.

Lawmakers visited the troops and apologized early Friday.

"What happened was an outrage and it will never happen again," said Chuck Schumer, the new Senate Majority leader, as he walked in a hall in the Capitol with dozens of soldiers sleeping on both sides.

Schumer said nobody knew exactly who ordered the part-time soldiers moved to the garage.

Echoing the recriminations over responsibility for letting hundreds of violent supporters of then-president Donald Trump crash the Capitol on January 6, National Guard officials said Capitol Police told them to move to the garage, and the Capitol Police denied it.

They "did not instruct the National Guard to vacate Capitol building facilities," said Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman in a statement.

"As of this morning, all Guardsmen and women have ben relocated to space within the Capitol complex."&nbsp;

A decision to turn a chilly underground parking garage into an overnight billet for National Guard troops in Washington to protect President Joe Biden's inauguration has stirred an uproar.

A decision to turn a chilly underground parking garage into an overnight billet for National Guard troops in Washington to protect President Joe Biden's inauguration has stirred an uproar. A number of the 25,000 troops standing guard around the US Capitol in recent days in the wake of the January 6 insurrection had been allowed to take breaks and naps in between long shifts on the floors of the building housing the US Congress. But on Thursday afternoon, after the legislature resumed work a day after the Biden inauguration, someone decided instead to force them out to a nearby parking garage. Photos that spread quickly over the internet showed guardsmen and women stretched out under flourescent lights in parking slots, with few toilets, outlets for charging phones, or other facilities available. Many members of Congress, noting that many of the troops came from their constituencies, voiced outrage. "This is an insult to all National Guard units that followed orders and served in the cold and rain through the night without fail. They protected our Capitol when we needed them most," said Representative Brendan Boyle on Twitter. Lawmakers visited the troops and apologized early Friday. "What happened was an outrage and it will never happen again," said Chuck Schumer, the new Senate Majority leader, as he walked in a hall in the Capitol with dozens of soldiers sleeping on both sides. Schumer said nobody knew exactly who ordered the part-time soldiers moved to the garage. Echoing the recriminations over responsibility for letting hundreds of violent supporters of then-president Donald Trump crash the Capitol on January 6, National Guard officials said Capitol Police told them to move to the garage, and the Capitol Police denied it. They "did not instruct the National Guard to vacate Capitol building facilities," said Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman in a statement. "As of this morning, all Guardsmen and women have ben relocated to space within the Capitol complex."

Outrage after troops protecting US Capitol forced to sleep in parking garage

When the supporters of the infamous US President Donald Trump took to the US Capitol, they damaged federal property and the idea of democracy. While the riots in itself were concerning, what raised bigger concerns was the theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop.

Now, a young woman has been identified as taking part in the theft of the US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's official laptop.

The FBI believes this woman had hoped to sell the laptop to a Russian spy agency and make monetary gains.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theft-of-nancy-pelosis-laptop-in-capitol-riots-raises-security-concern-355602">Theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop in Capitol riots raises security concern</a>

A complaint was filed on Sunday in the US District Court in Washington that requested an immediate arrest of Riley June Williams on charges of "violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds."

The woman, who has been listed as a resident of Pennsylvania, has not been traced as of now and her whereabouts still remain unknown.

While it is not confirmed if Williams was the one who picked up the laptop illegally from the Capitol building, she was spotted lurking around Pelosi's office in several pictures and video evidence that the FBI has procured from the January 06 riots.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-americans-want-immediate-removal-of-president-trump-poll-finds-355599">Majority of Americans want immediate removal of President Trump, poll finds</a>

Further, a witness — addressed as W1 — who was a former romantic partner of Riley Williams claims that Williams did in fact steal the laptop with the intention of selling it to a Russian spy agency. However, as per the official affidavit, the deal "fell through for unknown reasons, and Williams still has the computer device or destroyed it."

She was also spotted urging fellow rioters and Trump supporters to raid the other areas of the building and she can be heard saying "upstairs, upstairs, upstairs" in the video evidence.

Williams' mother has also confirmed her daughter's confirmation through the pictures and videos shown to her by the FBI. She also revealed that her daughter had "taken a sudden interest in President trump's politics" and she had travelled to Washington with her father, but later got separated.

WATCH|

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-on-high-alert-ahead-of-biden-inauguration-357513/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

She, however, later returned home only to pack a travelling bag and told her mother that she will be leaving "for a couple of weeks".

As of now, the FBI's official records show Williams is on the run with an arrest warrant issued on her name.

When the supporters of the infamous US President Donald Trump took to the US Capitol, they damaged federal property and the idea of democracy. While the riots in itself were concerning, what raised bigger concerns was the theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop.

When the supporters of the infamous US President Donald Trump took to the US Capitol, they damaged federal property and the idea of democracy. While the riots in itself were concerning, what raised bigger concerns was the theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop. Now, a young woman has been identified as taking part in the theft of the US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's official laptop. The FBI believes this woman had hoped to sell the laptop to a Russian spy agency and make monetary gains. Also read| Theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop in Capitol riots raises security concern A complaint was filed on Sunday in the US District Court in Washington that requested an immediate arrest of Riley June Williams on charges of "violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds." The woman, who has been listed as a resident of Pennsylvania, has not been traced as of now and her whereabouts still remain unknown. While it is not confirmed if Williams was the one who picked up the laptop illegally from the Capitol building, she was spotted lurking around Pelosi's office in several pictures and video evidence that the FBI has procured from the January 06 riots. Also read| Majority of Americans want immediate removal of President Trump, poll finds Further, a witness — addressed as W1 — who was a former romantic partner of Riley Williams claims that Williams did in fact steal the laptop with the intention of selling it to a Russian spy agency. However, as per the official affidavit, the deal "fell through for unknown reasons, and Williams still has the computer device or destroyed it." She was also spotted urging fellow rioters and Trump supporters to raid the other areas of the building and she can be heard saying "upstairs, upstairs, upstairs" in the video evidence. Williams' mother has also confirmed her daughter's confirmation through the pictures and videos shown to her by the FBI. She also revealed that her daughter had "taken a sudden interest in President trump's politics" and she had travelled to Washington with her father, but later got separated. WATCH| She, however, later returned home only to pack a travelling bag and told her mother that she will be leaving "for a couple of weeks". As of now, the FBI's official records show Williams is on the run with an arrest warrant issued on her name.

Woman hoped to sell Pelosi's stolen laptop to Russia: FBI

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday.

Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be&nbsp;a homeless complex.

Immediately after the smoke was spotted, the Capitol was put under a "no entry or exit" order due to an "external security threat" under&nbsp;a nearby freeway overpass. People present in the building were urged to stay away from all doors and windows and seek cover.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-vets-national-guard-troops-fearing-insider-attack-during-biden-inauguration-report-357417" hreflang="en">Biden inauguration: FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack'</a>

The DC Fire and EMS unit&nbsp;"responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen," they said on Twitter.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCsBravest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCsBravest</a> responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen.
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This incident has taken place&nbsp;a few days before the president-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> is set to take oath as the new President of the US in an inauguration ceremony to be held in the US Capitol on January 20.

The Capitol has been put under a lockdown due to fears of another possible riot. The fear comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> supporters stormed the Capitol and carried out deadly riots in the building with an alleged aim to disrupt the certification process of Joe Biden's win, and attacking the Democrat lawmakers.

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday. Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be a homeless complex.

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday. Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be a homeless complex. Immediately after the smoke was spotted, the Capitol was put under a "no entry or exit" order due to an "external security threat" under a nearby freeway overpass. People present in the building were urged to stay away from all doors and windows and seek cover. Also read| Biden inauguration: FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack' The DC Fire and EMS unit "responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen," they said on Twitter. #DCsBravest responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen. — DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) January 18, 2021 × This incident has taken place a few days before the president-elect Joe Biden is set to take oath as the new President of the US in an inauguration ceremony to be held in the US Capitol on January 20. The Capitol has been put under a lockdown due to fears of another possible riot. The fear comes after Donald Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol and carried out deadly riots in the building with an alleged aim to disrupt the certification process of Joe Biden's win, and attacking the Democrat lawmakers.

Panic grips Washington after smoke bellows near US Capitol

Ten days after rioters breached the U.S. Capitol in a deadly attack that stunned the world, cities nationwide were girding for a potential new wave of violent protests over the weekend, erecting barriers and deploying thousands of National Guard troops.

The FBI warned police agencies of possible armed demonstrations outside all 50 state capitol buildings starting Saturday through President-elect Joe Biden`s inauguration on Jan. 20, fueled by supporters of President Donald Trump who believe his false claims of electoral fraud.

Michigan, Virginia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Washington were among more than a dozen states that activated their National Guards to strengthen security. Meanwhile, downtown Washington, D.C., was virtually empty, with streets near the Capitol closed and battalions of camouflaged National Guard soldiers taking up positions across the city center.

The nationwide security scramble followed the deadly Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mix of extremists and Trump supporters, some of whom called for the death of Vice President Mike Pence as he presided over the certification of Biden`s election victory.

The Democratic leaders of four U.S. congressional committees said on Saturday they had opened a review of the events and had written to the FBI and other intelligence and security agencies asking what was known about threats, whether the information was shared and whether foreign influence played any role.

"This still-emerging story is one of astounding bravery by some U.S. Capitol Police and other officers; of staggering treachery by violent criminals; and of apparent and high-level failures — in particular, with respect to intelligence and security preparedness," said the letter.

It was signed by House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, House Homeland Security Chairman Bennie Thompson, House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler.

There were scattered demonstrations on Saturday, but statehouses remained mostly quiet. Law enforcement officials have trained much of their focus on Sunday, when the anti-government "boogaloo" movement made plans weeks ago to hold rallies in all 50 states.

Steve McCraw, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said in a statement late Friday that intelligence indicated "violent extremists" may seek to exploit planned armed protests in Austin to "conduct criminal acts." Texas closed its Capitol through Inauguration Day.

In Michigan, a fence was erected around the Capitol in Lansing, and troopers were mobilized from across the state to bolster security. The legislature canceled meetings next week, citing concern over credible threats.

In a nod to both the coronavirus pandemic as well as security concerns, festivities around Biden`s inauguration will largely be held online, though the president-elect still plans to be sworn in and deliver his inaugural address at the Capitol.

The inaugural committee`s virtual "welcome event" took place on Saturday evening, featuring appearances from union leaders, activists and celebrities such as actor Whoopi Goldberg.

"Make no mistake, the road ahead - it won`t be easy," Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, who closed out the event, told viewers. "But America is ready, and so are Joe and I."

DOMESTIC EXTREMISTS

The perception that the Jan. 6 insurrection was a success could embolden domestic extremists motivated by anti-government, racial and partisan grievances, spurring them to further violence, according to a government intelligence bulletin dated Wednesday first reported by Yahoo News.

The Joint Intelligence Bulletin, produced by the FBI, Department of Homeland Security and National Counterterrorism Center, further warned that "false narratives" about electoral fraud would serve as an ongoing catalyst for extremist groups.

Thousands of armed National Guard troops were on the streets of Washington in an unprecedented show of force after the assault on the U.S. Capitol. Bridges into the city were to be closed, and the National Mall and other iconic U.S. landmarks were blocked off into next week.

Authorities were on high alert. A Virginia man, Wesley Allen Beeler, was arrested on Friday evening at a security checkpoint after police said he presented an "unauthorized inauguration credential," according to a Capitol Police spokeswoman. Beeler had a loaded handgun and more than 500 rounds of ammunition, according to court papers.

A tearful Beeler later told the Washington Post he had been working security in Washington all week and pulled up to the checkpoint after getting lost. He told the paper he forgot the gun was in his truck and denied having so much ammunition.

Beeler was released after an initial court appearance on Saturday and is due back in court in June, records show.

Responding to news of the arrest, Democratic U.S. Representative Don Beyer of Virginia said the danger was real and the city was on edge.

"Anyone who can avoid the area around the Capitol and Mall this week should do so," Beyer wrote on Twitter.

The alarm extended beyond legislatures. The United Church of Christ, a Protestant denomination of more than 4,900 churches, warned its 800,000 members there were reports "liberal" churches could be attacked in the coming week.

Following the Jan. 6 violence in Washington, some militia members said they would not attend a long-planned pro-gun demonstration in Virginia, where authorities were worried about the risk of violence as multiple groups converged on the state capital, Richmond.

Some militias across the country have told followers to stay home this weekend, citing the increased security or the risk that the planned events were law enforcement traps.

Ten days after rioters breached the U.S. Capitol in a deadly attack that stunned the world, cities nationwide were girding for a potential new wave of violent protests over the weekend, erecting barriers and deploying thousands of National Guard troops.

Ten days after rioters breached the U.S. Capitol in a deadly attack that stunned the world, cities nationwide were girding for a potential new wave of violent protests over the weekend, erecting barriers and deploying thousands of National Guard troops. The FBI warned police agencies of possible armed demonstrations outside all 50 state capitol buildings starting Saturday through President-elect Joe Biden`s inauguration on Jan. 20, fueled by supporters of President Donald Trump who believe his false claims of electoral fraud. Michigan, Virginia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Washington were among more than a dozen states that activated their National Guards to strengthen security. Meanwhile, downtown Washington, D.C., was virtually empty, with streets near the Capitol closed and battalions of camouflaged National Guard soldiers taking up positions across the city center. The nationwide security scramble followed the deadly Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mix of extremists and Trump supporters, some of whom called for the death of Vice President Mike Pence as he presided over the certification of Biden`s election victory. The Democratic leaders of four U.S. congressional committees said on Saturday they had opened a review of the events and had written to the FBI and other intelligence and security agencies asking what was known about threats, whether the information was shared and whether foreign influence played any role. "This still-emerging story is one of astounding bravery by some U.S. Capitol Police and other officers; of staggering treachery by violent criminals; and of apparent and high-level failures — in particular, with respect to intelligence and security preparedness," said the letter. It was signed by House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, House Homeland Security Chairman Bennie Thompson, House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler. There were scattered demonstrations on Saturday, but statehouses remained mostly quiet. Law enforcement officials have trained much of their focus on Sunday, when the anti-government "boogaloo" movement made plans weeks ago to hold rallies in all 50 states. Steve McCraw, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said in a statement late Friday that intelligence indicated "violent extremists" may seek to exploit planned armed protests in Austin to "conduct criminal acts." Texas closed its Capitol through Inauguration Day. In Michigan, a fence was erected around the Capitol in Lansing, and troopers were mobilized from across the state to bolster security. The legislature canceled meetings next week, citing concern over credible threats. In a nod to both the coronavirus pandemic as well as security concerns, festivities around Biden`s inauguration will largely be held online, though the president-elect still plans to be sworn in and deliver his inaugural address at the Capitol. The inaugural committee`s virtual "welcome event" took place on Saturday evening, featuring appearances from union leaders, activists and celebrities such as actor Whoopi Goldberg. "Make no mistake, the road ahead - it won`t be easy," Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, who closed out the event, told viewers. "But America is ready, and so are Joe and I." DOMESTIC EXTREMISTS The perception that the Jan. 6 insurrection was a success could embolden domestic extremists motivated by anti-government, racial and partisan grievances, spurring them to further violence, according to a government intelligence bulletin dated Wednesday first reported by Yahoo News. The Joint Intelligence Bulletin, produced by the FBI, Department of Homeland Security and National Counterterrorism Center, further warned that "false narratives" about electoral fraud would serve as an ongoing catalyst for extremist groups. Thousands of armed National Guard troops were on the streets of Washington in an unprecedented show of force after the assault on the U.S. Capitol. Bridges into the city were to be closed, and the National Mall and other iconic U.S. landmarks were blocked off into next week. Authorities were on high alert. A Virginia man, Wesley Allen Beeler, was arrested on Friday evening at a security checkpoint after police said he presented an "unauthorized inauguration credential," according to a Capitol Police spokeswoman. Beeler had a loaded handgun and more than 500 rounds of ammunition, according to court papers. A tearful Beeler later told the Washington Post he had been working security in Washington all week and pulled up to the checkpoint after getting lost. He told the paper he forgot the gun was in his truck and denied having so much ammunition. Beeler was released after an initial court appearance on Saturday and is due back in court in June, records show. Responding to news of the arrest, Democratic U.S. Representative Don Beyer of Virginia said the danger was real and the city was on edge. "Anyone who can avoid the area around the Capitol and Mall this week should do so," Beyer wrote on Twitter. The alarm extended beyond legislatures. The United Church of Christ, a Protestant denomination of more than 4,900 churches, warned its 800,000 members there were reports "liberal" churches could be attacked in the coming week. Following the Jan. 6 violence in Washington, some militia members said they would not attend a long-planned pro-gun demonstration in Virginia, where authorities were worried about the risk of violence as multiple groups converged on the state capital, Richmond. Some militias across the country have told followers to stay home this weekend, citing the increased security or the risk that the planned events were law enforcement traps.

US state capitals, Washington on alert for possible pro-Trump armed protests

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers.

In an Arizona court filing on Friday in the case of Jacob Chansley, federal prosecutors took back an earlier assertion that supporters of President Donald Trump planned to "capture and assassinate elected officials" in the January 6 siege of the US legislature.

The claim was made in arguments to prevent the court from granting bail to Chansley, aka Jake Angeli, seen worldwide in photographs bare-shirted wearing a horned headdress and carrying a spear inside the Capitol.

On Friday, however, the Arizona prosecutors withdrew that claim as the Justice Department said that, despite calls during the attack to capture certain lawmakers and to kill Vice President Mike Pence, no evidence had been found yet to support any serious effort to do so.

"There is no direct evidence at this point of kill-capture teams and assassination," the federal district attorney for Washington DC who is overseeing the investigation of the Capitol attack, told reporters.

Nevertheless, the US Capitol remained on heavy lockdown Saturday ahead of the January 20 inauguration of Joe Biden as president, with security officials worried of potentially violent attacks on the event.

Biden is slated to several executive orders on the first day of his office.

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers.

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers. In an Arizona court filing on Friday in the case of Jacob Chansley, federal prosecutors took back an earlier assertion that supporters of President Donald Trump planned to "capture and assassinate elected officials" in the January 6 siege of the US legislature. The claim was made in arguments to prevent the court from granting bail to Chansley, aka Jake Angeli, seen worldwide in photographs bare-shirted wearing a horned headdress and carrying a spear inside the Capitol. On Friday, however, the Arizona prosecutors withdrew that claim as the Justice Department said that, despite calls during the attack to capture certain lawmakers and to kill Vice President Mike Pence, no evidence had been found yet to support any serious effort to do so. "There is no direct evidence at this point of kill-capture teams and assassination," the federal district attorney for Washington DC who is overseeing the investigation of the Capitol attack, told reporters. Nevertheless, the US Capitol remained on heavy lockdown Saturday ahead of the January 20 inauguration of Joe Biden as president, with security officials worried of potentially violent attacks on the event. Biden is slated to several executive orders on the first day of his office.

US investigating officers find no evidence of murder plot in Capitol attack

The U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man at a security checkpoint in Washington on Friday after he flashed what an officer described as an “unauthorized” inauguration credential and a search of his truck found an unregistered handgun and more than 500 rounds of ammunition, authorities said.

A federal law enforcement official said that the man, Wesley A. Beeler, 31, worked as a contractor, and that his credential was not fake, but was not recognized by the police officer. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the arrest.

Beeler’s father, Paul Beeler, said in an interview that his son was part of a security team working alongside the Capitol Police and the National Guard, and that his son must have simply left his personal gun in his truck. Wesley Beeler has an active private security license in Virginia and was approved to have a handgun, shotgun or patrol rifle while on assignments, according to a state website.

“It was an honest mistake,” Wesley Beeler told The Washington Post after being released Saturday afternoon. He said he had been working a security job in Washington, was running late to work, and had forgotten that his firearm was in his truck. He denied having 500 rounds of ammunition, as listed in the police report.

“I pulled up to a checkpoint after getting lost in D.C. because I’m a country boy,” he told The Post. “I showed them the inauguration badge that was given to me.”

The arrest comes as law enforcement officials have tried to fortify Washington before Inauguration Day on Wednesday, when they fear that extremists emboldened by the attack on the Capitol by President Donald Trump’s supporters on Jan. 6 could seek to cause violence. A militarized “green zone” is being established downtown, National Guard members are flooding the city, and a metal fence has gone up around the Capitol grounds in advance of the swearing-in of President-elect Joe Biden.

Wesley Beeler, of Front Royal, Virginia, had driven up to a security checkpoint less than half a mile from the Capitol grounds Friday evening and presented “an unauthorized inauguration credential,” according to a statement from a Capitol Police officer filed in a District of Columbia court Saturday. The officer, Roger Dupont, said that he had checked the credential against a list and found that it did not give Beeler authority to enter the restricted area.

A spokesperson for the Capitol Police later described the credential that Beeler had shown as “nongovernment issued.”

Officers searched his truck, which had several gun-related bumper stickers, and found a loaded Glock pistol, 509 rounds for the pistol and 21 shotgun shells, police said. Beeler had admitted having the Glock in the truck’s center console when he was asked if there were weapons in the car, they said.

Beeler was charged with five crimes, including possessing a weapon and ammunition in Washington without having it registered as required. He and his lawyer did not respond to requests for comment Saturday.

Paul Beeler said his son, a father of four, had held other security jobs over the years. “He was proud of the work he was doing with the police and the National Guard,” the father said.

Asked if he thought his son supported a peaceful transition of power, Paul Beeler said, “That’s the reason he’s there.”

The elder Beeler said he had grown worried about his son when he did not return his text messages Friday night, and that he had called him Saturday morning, when he thought his son would be returning to Virginia after his shift. He and his wife discovered that Wesley Beeler had been arrested when she received a call from a reporter, he said.

Law enforcement officials have said they are alarmed by chatter among far-right groups and other racist extremists who are threatening to target the nation’s capital to protest Biden’s electoral victory. Federal agencies have tried to keep some people who breached the Capitol with weapons earlier this month from returning to the city, including by restricting their ability to board commercial planes, according to an administration official.

Biden has resisted calls to move the inauguration ceremony indoors for the sake of safety. His inauguration committee had already been planning a scaled-back celebration with virtual components because of the coronavirus.

The U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man at a security checkpoint in Washington on Friday after he flashed what an officer described as an “unauthorized” inauguration credential and a search of his truck found an unregistered handgun and more than 500 rounds of ammunition, authorities said.

The U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man at a security checkpoint in Washington on Friday after he flashed what an officer described as an “unauthorized” inauguration credential and a search of his truck found an unregistered handgun and more than 500 rounds of ammunition, authorities said. A federal law enforcement official said that the man, Wesley A. Beeler, 31, worked as a contractor, and that his credential was not fake, but was not recognized by the police officer. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the arrest. Beeler’s father, Paul Beeler, said in an interview that his son was part of a security team working alongside the Capitol Police and the National Guard, and that his son must have simply left his personal gun in his truck. Wesley Beeler has an active private security license in Virginia and was approved to have a handgun, shotgun or patrol rifle while on assignments, according to a state website. “It was an honest mistake,” Wesley Beeler told The Washington Post after being released Saturday afternoon. He said he had been working a security job in Washington, was running late to work, and had forgotten that his firearm was in his truck. He denied having 500 rounds of ammunition, as listed in the police report. “I pulled up to a checkpoint after getting lost in D.C. because I’m a country boy,” he told The Post. “I showed them the inauguration badge that was given to me.” The arrest comes as law enforcement officials have tried to fortify Washington before Inauguration Day on Wednesday, when they fear that extremists emboldened by the attack on the Capitol by President Donald Trump’s supporters on Jan. 6 could seek to cause violence. A militarized “green zone” is being established downtown, National Guard members are flooding the city, and a metal fence has gone up around the Capitol grounds in advance of the swearing-in of President-elect Joe Biden. Wesley Beeler, of Front Royal, Virginia, had driven up to a security checkpoint less than half a mile from the Capitol grounds Friday evening and presented “an unauthorized inauguration credential,” according to a statement from a Capitol Police officer filed in a District of Columbia court Saturday. The officer, Roger Dupont, said that he had checked the credential against a list and found that it did not give Beeler authority to enter the restricted area. A spokesperson for the Capitol Police later described the credential that Beeler had shown as “nongovernment issued.” Officers searched his truck, which had several gun-related bumper stickers, and found a loaded Glock pistol, 509 rounds for the pistol and 21 shotgun shells, police said. Beeler had admitted having the Glock in the truck’s center console when he was asked if there were weapons in the car, they said. Beeler was charged with five crimes, including possessing a weapon and ammunition in Washington without having it registered as required. He and his lawyer did not respond to requests for comment Saturday. Paul Beeler said his son, a father of four, had held other security jobs over the years. “He was proud of the work he was doing with the police and the National Guard,” the father said. Asked if he thought his son supported a peaceful transition of power, Paul Beeler said, “That’s the reason he’s there.” The elder Beeler said he had grown worried about his son when he did not return his text messages Friday night, and that he had called him Saturday morning, when he thought his son would be returning to Virginia after his shift. He and his wife discovered that Wesley Beeler had been arrested when she received a call from a reporter, he said. Law enforcement officials have said they are alarmed by chatter among far-right groups and other racist extremists who are threatening to target the nation’s capital to protest Biden’s electoral victory. Federal agencies have tried to keep some people who breached the Capitol with weapons earlier this month from returning to the city, including by restricting their ability to board commercial planes, according to an administration official. Biden has resisted calls to move the inauguration ceremony indoors for the sake of safety. His inauguration committee had already been planning a scaled-back celebration with virtual components because of the coronavirus.

A man with a gun arrested by Capitol Police calls it an ‘honest mistake’

US Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar has resigned, citing last week’s attack on the Capitol.

In a letter confirming he would step down when Democrat Joe Biden takes office on January 20, Alex Azar called the violence "an assault on our democracy and on the tradition of peaceful transitions of power," urging Trump to condemn all violence and help ensure a smooth handover.

He also said the United States does not have a reserve stockpile of COVID-19 vaccines, but it is confident that there will enough produced to provide a second dose for people.

In the letter, Azar cited what he called the administration's successes, including the rapid development of coronavirus vaccines and therapeutics, which he said saved "hundreds of thousands or even millions of American lives."

"The attacks on the Capitol were an assault on our democracy and on the tradition of peaceful transitions of power," Azar wrote.

"We now have enough confidence that our ongoing production will be quality and available to provide the second dose for people. So we're not sitting on a reserve anymore. We've made that available to the states to order," Azar said.&nbsp;

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Here is Azar’s full resignation letter. It says he is leaving Jan. 20. It does cite the recent violence. <a href="https://t.co/UbSCjAYq7N">pic.twitter.com/UbSCjAYq7N</a>
— Stephanie Armour (@StephArmour1) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephArmour1/status/1350270241851498498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Trump administration had earlier communicated to states that there was a reserve stockpile of second doses of the vaccines.

Azar had said on Tuesday that the administration would release millions of doses it had been holding in reserve for booster shots in order to help spur a sluggish rollout of first doses to those most in need of the vaccine.

US Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar has resigned, citing last week’s attack on the Capitol. In a letter confirming he would step down when Democrat Joe Biden takes office on January 20, Alex Azar called the violence "an assault on our democracy and on the tradition of peaceful transitions of power," urging Trump to condemn all violence and help ensure a smooth handover.

US Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar has resigned, citing last week’s attack on the Capitol. In a letter confirming he would step down when Democrat Joe Biden takes office on January 20, Alex Azar called the violence "an assault on our democracy and on the tradition of peaceful transitions of power," urging Trump to condemn all violence and help ensure a smooth handover. He also said the United States does not have a reserve stockpile of COVID-19 vaccines, but it is confident that there will enough produced to provide a second dose for people. In the letter, Azar cited what he called the administration's successes, including the rapid development of coronavirus vaccines and therapeutics, which he said saved "hundreds of thousands or even millions of American lives." "The attacks on the Capitol were an assault on our democracy and on the tradition of peaceful transitions of power," Azar wrote. "We now have enough confidence that our ongoing production will be quality and available to provide the second dose for people. So we're not sitting on a reserve anymore. We've made that available to the states to order," Azar said. Here is Azar’s full resignation letter. It says he is leaving Jan. 20. It does cite the recent violence. pic.twitter.com/UbSCjAYq7N — Stephanie Armour (@StephArmour1) January 16, 2021 × The Trump administration had earlier communicated to states that there was a reserve stockpile of second doses of the vaccines. Azar had said on Tuesday that the administration would release millions of doses it had been holding in reserve for booster shots in order to help spur a sluggish rollout of first doses to those most in need of the vaccine.

US health secretary Azar resigns, cites Capitol attack as the reason

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol.

Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers.&nbsp;

The New York Times reported that FBI is in the process of questioning dozens of people.

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According to NYT, the FBI shed light on its investigation in a memo which was dispatched to the private sector and others on Friday.

Last week, Reuters reported that Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit hit on the head, as stated by his father.

Soon after the injuries, he was rushed to a nearby Washington hospital. He was resuscitated by ambulance crews twice in transit. But he died the next day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/olympic-gold-medallist-klete-keller-charged-for-role-in-us-capitol-riots-356682" hreflang="en">Olympic gold-medallist Klete Keller charged for role in US Capitol riots</a>

The Washington Metropolitan Police is investigation Sicknick’s death as a homicide. The FBI is assisting the local police.

Five people including Sicknick died in the attack on US Capitol last Wednesday which shook the world, marking the first such incident in US history when transfer of power has been marred with the US.

Trump has asked his supporters to show up at a rally near the White House, and then urged them to march to the Capitol where lawmakers were meeting to certify Biden as the winner in the US elections.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-mulls-labeling-proud-boys-as-terrorist-organisation-after-us-capitol-hill-riots-356178" hreflang="en">Canada mulls labeling Proud Boys as 'terrorist organisation' after US Capitol Hill riots</a>

Some rioters also lost their lives in the attack.

The memo by FBI added that 14 police officers had been injured in the riots that took the US Capitol by storm.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol. Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers. The New York Times reported that FBI is in the process of questioning dozens of people. According to NYT, the FBI shed light on its investigation in a memo which was dispatched to the private sector and others on Friday. Last week, Reuters reported that Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit hit on the head, as stated by his father. Soon after the injuries, he was rushed to a nearby Washington hospital. He was resuscitated by ambulance crews twice in transit. But he died the next day. Also read: Olympic gold-medallist Klete Keller charged for role in US Capitol riots The Washington Metropolitan Police is investigation Sicknick’s death as a homicide. The FBI is assisting the local police. Five people including Sicknick died in the attack on US Capitol last Wednesday which shook the world, marking the first such incident in US history when transfer of power has been marred with the US. Trump has asked his supporters to show up at a rally near the White House, and then urged them to march to the Capitol where lawmakers were meeting to certify Biden as the winner in the US elections. Also read: Canada mulls labeling Proud Boys as 'terrorist organisation' after US Capitol Hill riots Some rioters also lost their lives in the attack. The memo by FBI added that 14 police officers had been injured in the riots that took the US Capitol by storm.

FBI investigating dozens for death of police officer at US Capitol

Five-time Olympic&nbsp;medallist,&nbsp;Klete&nbsp;Keller on Wednesday was charged for his alleged participation in the US Capitol riot last week, according to court documents, media reports said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Keller was charged for knowingly trespassing or remaining in any restricted building without lawful authority&nbsp;or disorderly conduct on US Capitol grounds and obstructing law enforcement engaged in an official task, according to documents filed in the US District Court in Washington, DC, media reports stated.&nbsp;

However, it is yet unclear whether Keller has an attorney or whether he is under police custody.&nbsp;However, he has been charged an arrest warrant has been issued.&nbsp;

FBI Special Agent Matthew R&nbsp;Barofsky&nbsp;has written, in court documents, that he confirmed Keller's identity by comparing photographs from his Colorado driver's license.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-tear-gas-explosives-and-gunfire-trump-supporters-storm-capitol-clash-with-police-354961">Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police</a>

Keller, who is 6 feet, 6 inches tall, was allegedly spotted in the US Capitol where he was wearing a US Olympic Team jacket.&nbsp;Barofsky&nbsp;in his statement of facts wrote that Keller "appears to be one of the tallest individuals."&nbsp;

The court documents further say that research showed Keller was identified by media outlets such as&nbsp;SwimSwam, which thoroughly covers professional swimming.&nbsp;

In a statement, USA Swimming told CNN, "We respect private individuals' and groups' rights to peacefully protest but in no way condone the actions taken by those at the Capitol last week."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

The United States Olympic &amp; Paralympic Committee condemned the actions of the US Capitol rioters.&nbsp;

"We support the right to peacefully protest and express values and viewpoints in a respectful and lawful manner -- that is what makes our democracy strong. Sadly, that is not what happened in this case," the&nbsp;organisation&nbsp;said in a statement.&nbsp;

Keller is renowned for guiding the winning US team in the 4x200-meter freestyle relay at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. He went on to bag four more&nbsp;medals in three Olympic Games including gold in the same event in the 2008 Beijing Games.&nbsp;

Five-time Olympic medallist, Klete Keller on Wednesday was charged for his alleged participation in the US Capitol riot last week, according to court documents, media reports said.

Five-time Olympic medallist, Klete Keller on Wednesday was charged for his alleged participation in the US Capitol riot last week, according to court documents, media reports said. Keller was charged for knowingly trespassing or remaining in any restricted building without lawful authority or disorderly conduct on US Capitol grounds and obstructing law enforcement engaged in an official task, according to documents filed in the US District Court in Washington, DC, media reports stated. However, it is yet unclear whether Keller has an attorney or whether he is under police custody. However, he has been charged an arrest warrant has been issued. FBI Special Agent Matthew R Barofsky has written, in court documents, that he confirmed Keller's identity by comparing photographs from his Colorado driver's license. IN PICS | Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police Keller, who is 6 feet, 6 inches tall, was allegedly spotted in the US Capitol where he was wearing a US Olympic Team jacket. Barofsky in his statement of facts wrote that Keller "appears to be one of the tallest individuals." The court documents further say that research showed Keller was identified by media outlets such as SwimSwam, which thoroughly covers professional swimming. In a statement, USA Swimming told CNN, "We respect private individuals' and groups' rights to peacefully protest but in no way condone the actions taken by those at the Capitol last week." ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee condemned the actions of the US Capitol rioters. "We support the right to peacefully protest and express values and viewpoints in a respectful and lawful manner -- that is what makes our democracy strong. Sadly, that is not what happened in this case," the organisation said in a statement. Keller is renowned for guiding the winning US team in the 4x200-meter freestyle relay at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. He went on to bag four more medals in three Olympic Games including gold in the same event in the 2008 Beijing Games.

Olympic gold-medallist Klete Keller charged for role in US Capitol riots

A few days after the infamous Capitol riots in the US,&nbsp;&nbsp;the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Chad Wolf, has resigned from his post a few days before the President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration.

Wolf is the third person to resign from the soon-to-be-impeached US President Donald Trump's administration, after the attack at one of the most secure buildings in the US — Capitol building.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-warns-armed-trump-supporters-could-hold-protests-in-all-50-states-ahead-of-bidens-inauguration-356130" hreflang="en">FBI warns armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states</a>

Although he had been an ally of the President, the resignation from Wolf did not come as a surprise to many as he had openly criticised the attack on Capitol by Trump supporters and had labelled it as "tragic and sickening".

"While I have consistently condemned political violence on both sides of the aisle, specifically violence directed at law enforcement, we now see some supporters of the president using violence as a means to achieve political ends," Wolf said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-condemns-us-capitol-violence-says-its-time-for-healing-in-a-civil-manner-356036">Melania condemns Capitol violence, says time for 'healing in a civil manner'</a>

Wolf, who said he was stepping down for procedural reasons, named Pete Gaynor, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to replace him.

His resignation has come a few days before the President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration week, which has raised serious concerns about the security as worries about Trump supporters attempting another riot — as is being predicted by many experts. As of now, the Pentagon has authorised&nbsp;15,000 National Guard troops to take over Washington to assure security during the inauguration week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-donald-trump-be-impeached-356125">WATCH|</a>

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Wolf's resignation has also come a day before&nbsp;Trump is scheduled to travel to the US-Mexico frontier near Alamo, Texas to inspect the border wall he has had built. Wolf has usually accompanied Trump to such trips and has also appreciated his efforts. "President Trump took office with the promise to build the wall and secure our southern border -- a promise he has kept," Wolf has said in the past.

He will be serving his position till the end of the Trump administration, i.e. January 20, meaning he will continue overseeing&nbsp;numerous federal law enforcement bodies including the Secret Service.

A few days after the infamous Capitol riots in the US, the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Chad Wolf, has resigned from his post a few days before the President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration.

A few days after the infamous Capitol riots in the US, the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Chad Wolf, has resigned from his post a few days before the President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration. Wolf is the third person to resign from the soon-to-be-impeached US President Donald Trump's administration, after the attack at one of the most secure buildings in the US — Capitol building. Also read| FBI warns armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states Although he had been an ally of the President, the resignation from Wolf did not come as a surprise to many as he had openly criticised the attack on Capitol by Trump supporters and had labelled it as "tragic and sickening". "While I have consistently condemned political violence on both sides of the aisle, specifically violence directed at law enforcement, we now see some supporters of the president using violence as a means to achieve political ends," Wolf said. Also read| Melania condemns Capitol violence, says time for 'healing in a civil manner' Wolf, who said he was stepping down for procedural reasons, named Pete Gaynor, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to replace him. His resignation has come a few days before the President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration week, which has raised serious concerns about the security as worries about Trump supporters attempting another riot — as is being predicted by many experts. As of now, the Pentagon has authorised 15,000 National Guard troops to take over Washington to assure security during the inauguration week. WATCH| Wolf's resignation has also come a day before Trump is scheduled to travel to the US-Mexico frontier near Alamo, Texas to inspect the border wall he has had built. Wolf has usually accompanied Trump to such trips and has also appreciated his efforts. "President Trump took office with the promise to build the wall and secure our southern border -- a promise he has kept," Wolf has said in the past. He will be serving his position till the end of the Trump administration, i.e. January 20, meaning he will continue overseeing numerous federal law enforcement bodies including the Secret Service.

Homeland Security chief, Chad Wolf, resigns after Capitol riots; concerns over security in Washington rise

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-introduce-trump-impeachment-article-in-us-house-356120">Trump</a> supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Watch:

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As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration.

Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend.

Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-reassess-security-for-inauguration-and-demonstrations-after-capitol-attack-356109">Capitol </a>when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries.

Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns.

Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities.

Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions."

Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case.

Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath. Watch: As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration. Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend. Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the Capitol when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns. Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities. Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions." Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case. Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

FBI warns armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states ahead of Biden's inauguration

US House of Representatives Democrats have planned a vote on Monday to urge Vice-President Mike Pence to take steps to remove President Donald Trump from office after his supporters stormed the Capitol a few days back, before attempting to impeach him again.

Five people died in the rampage through the seat of government by Trumps backers after a fiery speech denouncing the November 3 election results by the Republican president. Officials have hence opened at least 25 domestic terrorism investigations into Wednesdays assault on the US Capitol.

The plan, spelled out by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a letter to members on Sunday evening, came as Washington struggles to decide what to do about Trump in the 10 days before Democratic President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in on January 20.

Trump, who has time and again and without evidence challenged the validity of Biden's election victory, praised and egged on supporters before they laid siege to the Capitol, where lawmakers were certifying the Electoral College vote for Biden.

Lawmakers were then forced to flee, as the building was mobbed by Trump supporters -- wearing hats with his slogan and waving flags with his name -- who overwhelmed the security forces.

The five dead included one Capitol Police officer beaten as he tried to ward off the crowds. Another police officer involved in the buildings defence died while off duty in the days following the attack.

In her letter, Pelosi said leaders of the Democratic-led House would attempt on Monday to pass a resolution calling on Pence to activate the 25th Amendment of the Constitution to declare Trump incapable of fulfilling the duties of his office.

"In protecting our Constitution and our Democracy, we will act with urgency, because this President represents an imminent threat to both," Pelosi said in the letter.

"As the days go by, the horror of the ongoing assault on our democracy perpetrated by this President is intensified and so is the immediate need for action," she wrote.

If Pence does not respond, Democrats would proceed with impeaching the president for a historic second time.

After the violence, which followed months of posts by Trump and his supporters attacking the US election process, Twitter permanently suspended Trump, who relied on it as one of his most direct ways to communicate with backers.

The White House said Trump planned to leave Washington to visit Texas on Tuesday.

Biden has said he will leave the impeachment question to Congress. He did say Congress must be able to hit the ground running once he takes office, when he will focus on the coronavirus pandemic and economic recovery.

(with inputs)

US House of Representatives Democrats have planned a vote on Monday to urge Vice-President Mike Pence to take steps to remove President Donald Trump from office after his supporters stormed the Capitol a few days back, before attempting to impeach him again.

US House of Representatives Democrats have planned a vote on Monday to urge Vice-President Mike Pence to take steps to remove President Donald Trump from office after his supporters stormed the Capitol a few days back, before attempting to impeach him again. Five people died in the rampage through the seat of government by Trumps backers after a fiery speech denouncing the November 3 election results by the Republican president. Officials have hence opened at least 25 domestic terrorism investigations into Wednesdays assault on the US Capitol. The plan, spelled out by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a letter to members on Sunday evening, came as Washington struggles to decide what to do about Trump in the 10 days before Democratic President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in on January 20. Trump, who has time and again and without evidence challenged the validity of Biden's election victory, praised and egged on supporters before they laid siege to the Capitol, where lawmakers were certifying the Electoral College vote for Biden. Lawmakers were then forced to flee, as the building was mobbed by Trump supporters -- wearing hats with his slogan and waving flags with his name -- who overwhelmed the security forces. The five dead included one Capitol Police officer beaten as he tried to ward off the crowds. Another police officer involved in the buildings defence died while off duty in the days following the attack. In her letter, Pelosi said leaders of the Democratic-led House would attempt on Monday to pass a resolution calling on Pence to activate the 25th Amendment of the Constitution to declare Trump incapable of fulfilling the duties of his office. "In protecting our Constitution and our Democracy, we will act with urgency, because this President represents an imminent threat to both," Pelosi said in the letter. "As the days go by, the horror of the ongoing assault on our democracy perpetrated by this President is intensified and so is the immediate need for action," she wrote. If Pence does not respond, Democrats would proceed with impeaching the president for a historic second time. After the violence, which followed months of posts by Trump and his supporters attacking the US election process, Twitter permanently suspended Trump, who relied on it as one of his most direct ways to communicate with backers. The White House said Trump planned to leave Washington to visit Texas on Tuesday. Biden has said he will leave the impeachment question to Congress. He did say Congress must be able to hit the ground running once he takes office, when he will focus on the coronavirus pandemic and economic recovery. (with inputs)

US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters.

A controversial facial recognition application by Clearview is reportedly being used by authorities to track people involved in the attack which took place on Wednesday. Many of the perpetrators were seen clicking selfies, and live streaming the incident as the attack took place. This has made the job of the police easier.&nbsp;

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In the aftermath of the attack, five people including a police officer were pronounced dead. Reported first by The New York Times, Clearview facial recognition witnessed a jump of 26 per cent in the number of searches. Clearview AI CEO Haon Ton-That told Gizmodo about the upsurge in search trends, which began on January 7. 
 
A plethora of images of the attackers had made the rounds on social networking websites and was broadcast on live television too. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Washington DC police are using the available evidence to track the attackers, and have also urged people with any information about the details of the perpetrators to come forward.
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/outgoing-us-capitol-police-chief-says-his-effort-to-get-help-was-thwarted-355952" hreflang="en">Outgoing US Capitol Police chief says his effort to get help was thwarted</a>

Gizmodo reported that over 2,400 police agencies in the US are using Clearview's facial recognition technology to recognise the assailants, who are largely seen as pro-Trump supporters.

NYT reported that detectives at the Miami Police Department are using Clearview's technology to identify and charge rioters. They are forwarding the information to the FBI. 
 
Last week, The Wall Street Journal claimed that the Alabama police department is also using the same technology to identify people from the footage, and then handing over the information to federal investigators.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-house-democrats-plan-vote-on-monday-for-removing-trump-over-capitol-riots-355859" hreflang="en">US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots</a> 
 
The Democrats, who are now in control of both the House and the Senate are set to move forward with a second attempt at impeaching Donald Trump from office, just 9 days before he officially leaves the presidential office, handing over the reins to President-elect Joe Biden.

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters.

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters. A controversial facial recognition application by Clearview is reportedly being used by authorities to track people involved in the attack which took place on Wednesday. Many of the perpetrators were seen clicking selfies, and live streaming the incident as the attack took place. This has made the job of the police easier. × In the aftermath of the attack, five people including a police officer were pronounced dead. Reported first by The New York Times, Clearview facial recognition witnessed a jump of 26 per cent in the number of searches. Clearview AI CEO Haon Ton-That told Gizmodo about the upsurge in search trends, which began on January 7. A plethora of images of the attackers had made the rounds on social networking websites and was broadcast on live television too. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Washington DC police are using the available evidence to track the attackers, and have also urged people with any information about the details of the perpetrators to come forward. Also read: Outgoing US Capitol Police chief says his effort to get help was thwarted Gizmodo reported that over 2,400 police agencies in the US are using Clearview's facial recognition technology to recognise the assailants, who are largely seen as pro-Trump supporters. NYT reported that detectives at the Miami Police Department are using Clearview's technology to identify and charge rioters. They are forwarding the information to the FBI. Last week, The Wall Street Journal claimed that the Alabama police department is also using the same technology to identify people from the footage, and then handing over the information to federal investigators. Also read: US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots The Democrats, who are now in control of both the House and the Senate are set to move forward with a second attempt at impeaching Donald Trump from office, just 9 days before he officially leaves the presidential office, handing over the reins to President-elect Joe Biden.

American agencies using facial recognition tools to nab US Capitol rioters

The outgoing chief of the US Capitol Police has said House of Representatives and Senate security officials thwarted his efforts to call in the National Guard. The statement comes as a diversion from earlier claims from officials who said the force had not asked for help.

The storming of the Capitol building by Trump's supporters delayed the certification of Democratic President-elect Joe Biden’s election victory.

Trump, who has without evidence challenged the validity of Biden's election victory, initially praised his supporters but later condemned the violence. Lawmakers were forced to flee, as the building was mobbed by the president's supporters, who overwhelmed security forces.

The former chief of the federal force, Steven Sund, told the Washington Post his supervisors were reluctant to take formal steps to put the Guard on call even as police intelligence suggested that the crowd President Donald Trump had invited to Washington to protest against his defeat was probably going to be much larger than earlier demonstrations.

Sund's remarks were also in contrast with those from officials in other branches of government, who said after Trump's supporters stormed into the Capitol building last Wednesday that they could have provided more people to secure it -- but no one from the Capitol Police asked.

Sund told the newspaper in an interview he had asked House and Senate security officials for permission to request that the National Guard be placed on standby in case he needed quick backup but his request was turned down.

Kenneth Rapuano, assistant secretary of defence for homeland defence and global security, said last week that the Pentagon had been in touch with the Capitol Police and were told that they would not require assistance from the National Guard.'

Sund kept telling officials that "the situation is dire", the newspaper reported.

Sund, who will step down from his post on January 16 after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for his resignation, said his request for help was rejected or delayed six times.

"If we would have had the National Guard we could have held them at bay longer, until more officers from our partner agencies could arrive," he told the newspaper.

Five people died in the violence including one Capitol Police officer who was beaten as he tried to ward off the crowds.

The outgoing chief of the US Capitol Police has said House of Representatives and Senate security officials thwarted his efforts to call in the National Guard. The statement comes as a diversion from earlier claims from officials who said the force had not asked for help.

The outgoing chief of the US Capitol Police has said House of Representatives and Senate security officials thwarted his efforts to call in the National Guard. The statement comes as a diversion from earlier claims from officials who said the force had not asked for help. The storming of the Capitol building by Trump's supporters delayed the certification of Democratic President-elect Joe Biden’s election victory. Trump, who has without evidence challenged the validity of Biden's election victory, initially praised his supporters but later condemned the violence. Lawmakers were forced to flee, as the building was mobbed by the president's supporters, who overwhelmed security forces. The former chief of the federal force, Steven Sund, told the Washington Post his supervisors were reluctant to take formal steps to put the Guard on call even as police intelligence suggested that the crowd President Donald Trump had invited to Washington to protest against his defeat was probably going to be much larger than earlier demonstrations. Sund's remarks were also in contrast with those from officials in other branches of government, who said after Trump's supporters stormed into the Capitol building last Wednesday that they could have provided more people to secure it -- but no one from the Capitol Police asked. Sund told the newspaper in an interview he had asked House and Senate security officials for permission to request that the National Guard be placed on standby in case he needed quick backup but his request was turned down. Kenneth Rapuano, assistant secretary of defence for homeland defence and global security, said last week that the Pentagon had been in touch with the Capitol Police and were told that they would not require assistance from the National Guard.' Sund kept telling officials that "the situation is dire", the newspaper reported. Sund, who will step down from his post on January 16 after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for his resignation, said his request for help was rejected or delayed six times. "If we would have had the National Guard we could have held them at bay longer, until more officers from our partner agencies could arrive," he told the newspaper. Five people died in the violence including one Capitol Police officer who was beaten as he tried to ward off the crowds.

Outgoing US Capitol Police chief says his effort to get help was thwarted

Federal authorities in the United States of America found a pickup truck packed with 11 homemade bombs, an assault rifle, and a handgun just two blocks away from the Capitol building. CNN reported that the truck was parked there for hours before coming under the radar of the authorities. 
 
Recently, a group of protesters, who were&nbsp;allegedly Trump supporters attacked the Capitol which led to the deaths of five people, including a police officer.

Prosecutors claimed that another man had claimed to have shown up with an assault rifle with hundreds of rounds worth of ammunition. Additionally, he claimed that he wanted to shoot/run over House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

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Federal documents that revealed the existence of the weapons were in regard to the charges against Lonnie Leroy Coffman of Alabama. The cache of weapons was found by a bomb squad as they tried to secure the building.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-americans-want-immediate-removal-of-president-trump-poll-finds-355599" hreflang="en">Majority of Americans want immediate removal of President Trump, poll finds</a>

Hundreds of rioters, many of them donning Confederate flags pushed into the US Capitol. Soon after, House and Senate floors were evacuated by the police.

As rioters entered the Capitol, US President Donald Trump released a clip urging them to ''go home''. Even then, Trump continued to push his baseless claims of a stolen election. Owing to his tweets, Twitter had permanently disabled Trump's account, with Facebook also announcing an indefinite ban. 
 
According to the 70-year-old Coffman, he had filled mason jars with "melted Styrofoam and gasoline''. He told the police the same, who believe that if exploded it would have produced a reaction like Napalm, a controversial substance used in bombs which stick to the skin of those hit by it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theft-of-nancy-pelosis-laptop-in-capitol-riots-raises-security-concern-355602" hreflang="en">Theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop in Capitol riots raises security concern</a>

13 charges were announced by the Department of Justice in relation to the riots that took place. These included a lawmaker from West Virginia, along with a man who had entered House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office and had also sat at her desk.

Many other individuals have been accused of taking ammunition to the Capitol building. As federal agencies undertake further investigation, more details are expected to pop up.

Federal authorities in the United States of America found a pickup truck packed with 11 homemade bombs, an assault rifle, and a handgun just two blocks away from the Capitol building.

Federal authorities in the United States of America found a pickup truck packed with 11 homemade bombs, an assault rifle, and a handgun just two blocks away from the Capitol building. CNN reported that the truck was parked there for hours before coming under the radar of the authorities. Recently, a group of protesters, who were allegedly Trump supporters attacked the Capitol which led to the deaths of five people, including a police officer. Prosecutors claimed that another man had claimed to have shown up with an assault rifle with hundreds of rounds worth of ammunition. Additionally, he claimed that he wanted to shoot/run over House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Federal documents that revealed the existence of the weapons were in regard to the charges against Lonnie Leroy Coffman of Alabama. The cache of weapons was found by a bomb squad as they tried to secure the building. Also read: Majority of Americans want immediate removal of President Trump, poll finds Hundreds of rioters, many of them donning Confederate flags pushed into the US Capitol. Soon after, House and Senate floors were evacuated by the police. As rioters entered the Capitol, US President Donald Trump released a clip urging them to ''go home''. Even then, Trump continued to push his baseless claims of a stolen election. Owing to his tweets, Twitter had permanently disabled Trump's account, with Facebook also announcing an indefinite ban. According to the 70-year-old Coffman, he had filled mason jars with "melted Styrofoam and gasoline''. He told the police the same, who believe that if exploded it would have produced a reaction like Napalm, a controversial substance used in bombs which stick to the skin of those hit by it. Also read: Theft of Nancy Pelosi's laptop in Capitol riots raises security concern 13 charges were announced by the Department of Justice in relation to the riots that took place. These included a lawmaker from West Virginia, along with a man who had entered House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office and had also sat at her desk. Many other individuals have been accused of taking ammunition to the Capitol building. As federal agencies undertake further investigation, more details are expected to pop up.

Federal authorities found truck loaded with explosives near US Capitol: Report

Lakers star Lebron James, recently, expressed his disappointment after a Wisconsin prosecutor on Tuesday decided not to charge a police officer who shot Jacob Blake in August last year.&nbsp;

However, the recent incident involving storming of US Capitol by a violent mob loyal to US President Donald Trump just to stop the Congress from certifying the results of November’s election has left the basketball star worried.&nbsp;

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“We don’t get anything back from what we’ve given this country besides a slap in the face.” <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> shares his thoughts on being Black in America. <a href="https://t.co/d4sx6XnmD5">pic.twitter.com/d4sx6XnmD5</a>
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“We live in two Americas and that was a prime example of that yesterday. If you don’t understand or see that then you need to take a step back. Not just one step but four or five or even 10 steps backwards,” James said Thursday night after finishing with a team-high 27 points in the Lakers’ 118-109 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. “How do you want your kids or grandkids to live in this beautiful country? Because yesterday was not it.

“I couldn’t help but to wonder if those were my kind storming the Capitol what would have been the outcome. We all know what would have happened if anyone even got close let alone storm or get in the offices.”

The Lakers star recently donned a shirt that said ‘DO YOU UNDERSTAND NOW?’ walking into Staples Center before the game. When asked what we meant by his shirt, James said he wants people to understand what athletes and black people are saying.

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“You will never understand the feeling of being a black man and woman in America,” James said. “Do you understand how hard it is for us to continue to inspire and give everything we got? Everyone jumps on the bandwagon of what we provide, what we bring. The way we dress, our music, our culture, our food. Everyone steals from what we do and then they want to act like they did it or they brought it to this world. We don’t get our due diligence. We don’t get respect. We don’t get anything back for what we’ve given to this country besides a slap in the face.”

Lakers star Lebron James, recently, expressed his disappointment after a Wisconsin prosecutor on Tuesday decided not to charge a police officer who shot Jacob Blake in August last year.

Lakers star Lebron James, recently, expressed his disappointment after a Wisconsin prosecutor on Tuesday decided not to charge a police officer who shot Jacob Blake in August last year. However, the recent incident involving storming of US Capitol by a violent mob loyal to US President Donald Trump just to stop the Congress from certifying the results of November’s election has left the basketball star worried. “We don’t get anything back from what we’ve given this country besides a slap in the face.” @KingJames shares his thoughts on being Black in America. pic.twitter.com/d4sx6XnmD5 — NBA TV (@NBATV) January 8, 2021 × “We live in two Americas and that was a prime example of that yesterday. If you don’t understand or see that then you need to take a step back. Not just one step but four or five or even 10 steps backwards,” James said Thursday night after finishing with a team-high 27 points in the Lakers’ 118-109 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. “How do you want your kids or grandkids to live in this beautiful country? Because yesterday was not it. “I couldn’t help but to wonder if those were my kind storming the Capitol what would have been the outcome. We all know what would have happened if anyone even got close let alone storm or get in the offices.” The Lakers star recently donned a shirt that said ‘DO YOU UNDERSTAND NOW?’ walking into Staples Center before the game. When asked what we meant by his shirt, James said he wants people to understand what athletes and black people are saying. View this post on Instagram A post shared by LeBron James (@kingjames) × “You will never understand the feeling of being a black man and woman in America,” James said. “Do you understand how hard it is for us to continue to inspire and give everything we got? Everyone jumps on the bandwagon of what we provide, what we bring. The way we dress, our music, our culture, our food. Everyone steals from what we do and then they want to act like they did it or they brought it to this world. We don’t get our due diligence. We don’t get respect. We don’t get anything back for what we’ve given to this country besides a slap in the face.”

'We live in two Americas': Lakers star LeBron James on US Capitol violence

Joining the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-unimaginable-and-disgraceful-hollywood-reacts-to-capitol-attack-355175"> long list of celebrities</a> who slammed the violence that took place at the US Capitol after Joe Biden won the US elections, Hollywood star George Clooney said “it's devastating to watch the people's house being desecrated in that way."

George Clooney added, "But it is also a tremendous overreach in a way — everybody kept waiting for, what's the one thing, the straw that breaks the camel's back and it just seemed like that line just kept getting moved and moved and moved and outrage didn't even matter anymore, even to the point of calling the Secretary of State in Georgia and pressuring him. None of that seemed to matter. This mattered."

Calling the Trump family a dustbin of history, George added, "This puts<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump"> Donald Trump</a>, Donald Trump Jr. Ivanka, all of them, into the dustbin of history. That name will now forever be associated with insurrection."&nbsp;

Many Hollywood stars such as Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Stiller, Sarah Silverman, Josh Gad and Cynthia Nixon took to social media to weigh in and call for immediate action to be taken.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/singer-jay-kay-denies-being-at-the-capitol-hill-as-fans-mistake-him-for-one-of-the-rioters-355264" hreflang="en">Singer Jay Kay denies being at the Capitol Hill as fans mistake him for one of the rioters</a>

Michelle Obama too released a statement, in which she said, "Now is the time for those who voted for this president to see the reality of what they’ve supported — and publicly and forcefully rebuke him and the actions of that mob.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rappers-lil-wayne-kodak-black-in-line-for-donald-trumps-pardons-for-these-crimes-355311" hreflang="en">Rappers Lil Wayne, Kodak Black in line for Donald Trump's pardons for these crimes</a>

Joining the long list of celebrities who slammed the violence that took place at the US Capitol after Joe Biden won the US elections, Hollywood star George Clooney said “it's devastating to watch the people's house being desecrated in that way.

Joining the long list of celebrities who slammed the violence that took place at the US Capitol after Joe Biden won the US elections, Hollywood star George Clooney said “it's devastating to watch the people's house being desecrated in that way." George Clooney added, "But it is also a tremendous overreach in a way — everybody kept waiting for, what's the one thing, the straw that breaks the camel's back and it just seemed like that line just kept getting moved and moved and moved and outrage didn't even matter anymore, even to the point of calling the Secretary of State in Georgia and pressuring him. None of that seemed to matter. This mattered." Calling the Trump family a dustbin of history, George added, "This puts Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr. Ivanka, all of them, into the dustbin of history. That name will now forever be associated with insurrection." Many Hollywood stars such as Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Stiller, Sarah Silverman, Josh Gad and Cynthia Nixon took to social media to weigh in and call for immediate action to be taken. Singer Jay Kay denies being at the Capitol Hill as fans mistake him for one of the rioters Michelle Obama too released a statement, in which she said, "Now is the time for those who voted for this president to see the reality of what they’ve supported — and publicly and forcefully rebuke him and the actions of that mob.” Rappers Lil Wayne, Kodak Black in line for Donald Trump's pardons for these crimes

George Clooney on US Capitol violence: This puts Donald Trump into dustbin of history

n the aftermath of a violent mob invading the Capitol building on Wednesday, calls in Congress are growing for President Donald Trump to be stripped of the power of his office under the disability clause of the 25th Amendment.

The amendment provides a complex, difficult process for wresting power from a sitting president. Here is a brief history of the 25th Amendment and an explanation of how it operates.

What is the 25th Amendment?

The 25th Amendment to the Constitution is primarily designed to clarify the presidential order of succession. The first three sections deal with when a president resigns, dies or becomes ill or temporarily incapacitated.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hurt-for-our-country-michelle-obama-reacts-after-capitol-riots-355301">'I hurt for our country': Michelle Obama, reacts after Capitol riots</a>

The fourth section provides a multistep process for the vice president and a majority of the officials who lead executive agencies — commonly thought of as the Cabinet — to declare that the president is “unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.” That process ultimately requires a two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress.

How did the 25th Amendment come about?

In the aftermath of John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, there was some confusion about how to choose a new vice president after Lyndon B. Johnson became president. And there was concern about what might happen if Johnson fell ill or was incapacitated before his replacement was found. Congress formally proposed the 25th Amendment in 1965, and the amendment became part of the Constitution in 1967, after 38 states ratified it.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-various-bans-donald-trump-makes-a-comeback-on-twitter-355250" hreflang="en">After various bans, Donald Trump makes a comeback on Twitter</a>

How would it actually work, if invoked now?

The first step would be for Vice President Mike Pence and a majority of the Cabinet to provide a written declaration to the president pro tempore of the Senate (currently Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa) and the speaker of the House (currently Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.) that Trump “is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.” That would immediately strip Trump of the powers of his office and make Pence the acting president.

But the 25th Amendment would allow Trump to immediately send a written declaration of his own to Grassley and Pelosi saying that he is in fact able to perform his duties. That would immediately allow him to resume his duties, unless Pence and the Cabinet send another declaration to the congressional leaders within four days restating their concerns. Pence would take over again as acting president.

That declaration would require Congress to assemble within 48 hours and to vote within 21 days. If two-thirds of members of both the House and the Senate agreed that Trump was unable to continue as president, he would be stripped permanently of the position and Pence would continue serving as acting president. If the vote in Congress fell short, Trump would resume his duties.

Would that ever happen?

The authors of the 25th Amendment intended it to be a difficult process that would make it exceedingly rare. They succeeded.

To put it in context, it is even more difficult to strip a president of power under the 25th Amendment than it is under the impeachment process. A president can be impeached by a simple majority in the House and removed from office by a two-thirds vote in the Senate. Stripping a president of power under the 25th Amendment requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers.

n the aftermath of a violent mob invading the Capitol building on Wednesday, calls in Congress are growing for President Donald Trump to be stripped of the power of his office under the disability clause of the 25th Amendment.

n the aftermath of a violent mob invading the Capitol building on Wednesday, calls in Congress are growing for President Donald Trump to be stripped of the power of his office under the disability clause of the 25th Amendment. The amendment provides a complex, difficult process for wresting power from a sitting president. Here is a brief history of the 25th Amendment and an explanation of how it operates. What is the 25th Amendment? The 25th Amendment to the Constitution is primarily designed to clarify the presidential order of succession. The first three sections deal with when a president resigns, dies or becomes ill or temporarily incapacitated. Also read| 'I hurt for our country': Michelle Obama, reacts after Capitol riots The fourth section provides a multistep process for the vice president and a majority of the officials who lead executive agencies — commonly thought of as the Cabinet — to declare that the president is “unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.” That process ultimately requires a two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress. How did the 25th Amendment come about? In the aftermath of John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, there was some confusion about how to choose a new vice president after Lyndon B. Johnson became president. And there was concern about what might happen if Johnson fell ill or was incapacitated before his replacement was found. Congress formally proposed the 25th Amendment in 1965, and the amendment became part of the Constitution in 1967, after 38 states ratified it. Also read| After various bans, Donald Trump makes a comeback on Twitter How would it actually work, if invoked now? The first step would be for Vice President Mike Pence and a majority of the Cabinet to provide a written declaration to the president pro tempore of the Senate (currently Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa) and the speaker of the House (currently Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.) that Trump “is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.” That would immediately strip Trump of the powers of his office and make Pence the acting president. But the 25th Amendment would allow Trump to immediately send a written declaration of his own to Grassley and Pelosi saying that he is in fact able to perform his duties. That would immediately allow him to resume his duties, unless Pence and the Cabinet send another declaration to the congressional leaders within four days restating their concerns. Pence would take over again as acting president. That declaration would require Congress to assemble within 48 hours and to vote within 21 days. If two-thirds of members of both the House and the Senate agreed that Trump was unable to continue as president, he would be stripped permanently of the position and Pence would continue serving as acting president. If the vote in Congress fell short, Trump would resume his duties. Would that ever happen? The authors of the 25th Amendment intended it to be a difficult process that would make it exceedingly rare. They succeeded. To put it in context, it is even more difficult to strip a president of power under the 25th Amendment than it is under the impeachment process. A president can be impeached by a simple majority in the House and removed from office by a two-thirds vote in the Senate. Stripping a president of power under the 25th Amendment requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers.

What is the 25th Amendment, and how does it work?