Donald Trump is in serious trouble from his former vice president Mike Pence's testimony in the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation, claims ex-federal prosecutor Glenn Kirschner.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Pence said he will not appeal the judge's order compelling him to testify in the DOJ's investigation into whether the former president attempted to overturn the 2020 election results or not.&nbsp;

"Mike Pence has some sharply incriminating information that comes directly from the mouth of Donald Trump," Kirschner was quoted as saying by Newsweek.&nbsp;

"That's going to be direct evidence, not circumstantial evidence because Donald Trump waged a relentless pressure campaign to do - let's call it what it is to violate the law. The Electoral Count Act."

He added that Pence's not appealing could be a 'real danger zone for Donald Trump'.&nbsp;

As Kirschner made the tall claims, Trump's spokespersons dubbed him a conspiracy theorist saying, "Glenn is a notorious trafficker of wild conspiracy theories and dubious legal analysis. I would expect nothing more from a clout-chasing MSNBC contributor who has been shunned by the legal community at large."

While Kirschner's version would only be tested after Pence's testimony, there have been signs that the former Trump ally may open up a front in the court.

<h2>Pence criticises Trump</h2>

Last month, at a public function, Pence harshly criticised Trump for his role in the riots&nbsp;and said history will hold the former president accountable for being wrong.&nbsp;

“President Trump was wrong,” said Pence.&nbsp;“I had no right to overturn the election. And his reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day, and I know history will hold Donald Trump accountable.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-was-wrong-mike-pence-criticizes-former-prez-for-endangering-his-family-571083">ALSO READ |&nbsp;‘Trump was wrong’: Mike Pence criticises former President for ‘endangering’ his family</a>

Pence&nbsp;previously told the congressional committee that investigated the riots that&nbsp;Trump pressured him to overturn his 2020 election defeat despite being repeatedly told it was illegal to do so. After the refusal, some rioters, who entered the US Capitol corridors chanted that they wanted to ‘hang&nbsp;Mike Pence’.&nbsp;

The DOJ is currently investigating the Capitol Riots as well as Trump's team and its alleged attempt to install fake electors to the Electoral College.

Jack Smith was appointed as the special counsel to investigate the politically sensitive case last year in November. It was the second time in five years that DOJ had appointed a special counsel to probe Trump’s conduct.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pence-different-times-call-for-different-leadership-567980">WATCH |&nbsp;Mike Pence: 'Different times call for different leadership'</a>

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Following the appointment, Trump released a statement and maintained his innocence saying he had done nothing wrong.&nbsp;

"These people are corrupt and they go behind honest and innocent people in the guise of legitimacy. I have given million and million of pages and they got nothing. Document row is a total hoax. I have done all the proper things. It's a political witch hunt."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Donald Trump is in serious trouble from his former vice president Mike Pence's testimony in the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation, claims ex-federal prosecutor Glenn Kirschner.

Donald Trump is in serious trouble from his former vice president Mike Pence's testimony in the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation, claims ex-federal prosecutor Glenn Kirschner. Earlier this week, Pence said he will not appeal the judge's order compelling him to testify in the DOJ's investigation into whether the former president attempted to overturn the 2020 election results or not. "Mike Pence has some sharply incriminating information that comes directly from the mouth of Donald Trump," Kirschner was quoted as saying by Newsweek. "That's going to be direct evidence, not circumstantial evidence because Donald Trump waged a relentless pressure campaign to do - let's call it what it is to violate the law. The Electoral Count Act." He added that Pence's not appealing could be a 'real danger zone for Donald Trump'. As Kirschner made the tall claims, Trump's spokespersons dubbed him a conspiracy theorist saying, "Glenn is a notorious trafficker of wild conspiracy theories and dubious legal analysis. I would expect nothing more from a clout-chasing MSNBC contributor who has been shunned by the legal community at large." While Kirschner's version would only be tested after Pence's testimony, there have been signs that the former Trump ally may open up a front in the court. Pence criticises Trump Last month, at a public function, Pence harshly criticised Trump for his role in the riots and said history will hold the former president accountable for being wrong. “President Trump was wrong,” said Pence. “I had no right to overturn the election. And his reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day, and I know history will hold Donald Trump accountable.” ALSO READ | ‘Trump was wrong’: Mike Pence criticises former President for ‘endangering’ his family Pence previously told the congressional committee that investigated the riots that Trump pressured him to overturn his 2020 election defeat despite being repeatedly told it was illegal to do so. After the refusal, some rioters, who entered the US Capitol corridors chanted that they wanted to ‘hang Mike Pence’. The DOJ is currently investigating the Capitol Riots as well as Trump's team and its alleged attempt to install fake electors to the Electoral College. Jack Smith was appointed as the special counsel to investigate the politically sensitive case last year in November. It was the second time in five years that DOJ had appointed a special counsel to probe Trump’s conduct. WATCH | Mike Pence: 'Different times call for different leadership' × Following the appointment, Trump released a statement and maintained his innocence saying he had done nothing wrong. "These people are corrupt and they go behind honest and innocent people in the guise of legitimacy. I have given million and million of pages and they got nothing. Document row is a total hoax. I have done all the proper things. It's a political witch hunt." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trump might be in danger from Pence's testimony, claims former federal prosecutor

US President Joe Biden on Friday commemorated the second anniversary of the Capitol Hill riots by awarding the "Presidential Citizens Medal" to those that defended the building and lawmakers inside. However, during the speech, he mistakenly claimed the date of the riot to be 'July the 6th'.

"It's not an exaggeration to say that America owes you, owes you all, and I really mean this, a debt of gratitude. One we can never fully repay, unless we live up to what you did," said Biden before taking the misstep,&nbsp;"If I can halt for a second, and just say to you, the impact of what happened on July the 6th had international repercussions beyond what any of you I think can fully understand."

The video clip of Biden's speech has since gone viral on social media platforms with several of his detractors taking a shot&nbsp;at him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Biden: "What happened on July the 6th had international repercussions beyond what I think any of you can fully understand" <a href="https://t.co/ZxCLhPju9o">pic.twitter.com/ZxCLhPju9o</a>
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) <a href="https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/1611452795542188032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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One netizen poked fun at Biden by jumbling the date of 9/11 and the Pearl harbour attack. Meanwhile, others simply called it embarrassing for the president who has often been ridiculed for his absent-minded statements.

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Surely an unforgettable date which will live in infamy — just like the attacks on 7/11 and Diamond Harbor. <a href="https://t.co/vjp2qLGjjF">https://t.co/vjp2qLGjjF</a>
— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) <a href="https://twitter.com/alx/status/1611457862722617344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wants-republicans-to-get-their-act-together-on-house-speaker-voting-549514">Read more:&nbsp;Biden wants Republicans to get their 'act together' on House speaker voting</a>

Biden awards the medals

During the ceremony, Biden awarded 14 medals and said America had 'no place' for political violence.&nbsp;

"Despite our differences in opinion, we must say clearly with a united voice...there's no place, zero, zero place in America for voter intimidation...for political violence."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-biden-renominates-eric-garcetti-as-us-envoy-to-india-549460">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Biden renominates Eric Garcetti as US envoy to India</a>

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He also targetted the Republicans and Trump loyalists who attempted to overturn the election.&nbsp;

"All of it was fueled by lies about the 2020 election but on this day two years ago our democracy held because we the people...did not flinch."

"History will remember your names..remember your courage and remember your bravery."

Notably, three medals were awarded posthumously to police officers who suffered terrible fates&nbsp;after the events of January 6.

While two officers committed suicide after the riots, one had a stroke the very next day. The latter's girlfriend has filed a suit against two men who have pleaded guilty to the charges and Donald Trump. She is seeking $10 million in damages from each party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on Friday commemorated the second anniversary of the Capitol Hill riots by awarding the "Presidential Citizens Medal" to those that defended the building and lawmakers inside.

US President Joe Biden on Friday commemorated the second anniversary of the Capitol Hill riots by awarding the "Presidential Citizens Medal" to those that defended the building and lawmakers inside. However, during the speech, he mistakenly claimed the date of the riot to be 'July the 6th'. "It's not an exaggeration to say that America owes you, owes you all, and I really mean this, a debt of gratitude. One we can never fully repay, unless we live up to what you did," said Biden before taking the misstep, "If I can halt for a second, and just say to you, the impact of what happened on July the 6th had international repercussions beyond what any of you I think can fully understand." The video clip of Biden's speech has since gone viral on social media platforms with several of his detractors taking a shot at him. Biden: "What happened on July the 6th had international repercussions beyond what I think any of you can fully understand" pic.twitter.com/ZxCLhPju9o — Greg Price (@greg_price11) January 6, 2023 × One netizen poked fun at Biden by jumbling the date of 9/11 and the Pearl harbour attack. Meanwhile, others simply called it embarrassing for the president who has often been ridiculed for his absent-minded statements. Surely an unforgettable date which will live in infamy — just like the attacks on 7/11 and Diamond Harbor. https://t.co/vjp2qLGjjF — ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) January 6, 2023 × Read more: Biden wants Republicans to get their 'act together' on House speaker voting Biden awards the medals During the ceremony, Biden awarded 14 medals and said America had 'no place' for political violence. "Despite our differences in opinion, we must say clearly with a united voice...there's no place, zero, zero place in America for voter intimidation...for political violence." WATCH | WION Dispatch: Biden renominates Eric Garcetti as US envoy to India × He also targetted the Republicans and Trump loyalists who attempted to overturn the election. "All of it was fueled by lies about the 2020 election but on this day two years ago our democracy held because we the people...did not flinch." "History will remember your names..remember your courage and remember your bravery." Notably, three medals were awarded posthumously to police officers who suffered terrible fates after the events of January 6. While two officers committed suicide after the riots, one had a stroke the very next day. The latter's girlfriend has filed a suit against two men who have pleaded guilty to the charges and Donald Trump. She is seeking $10 million in damages from each party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Biden's faux pas as he confuses the date of January 6 Capitol Hill riots

In what bears an eerie similarity to the January 6 US Capitol riots, an Associated Press report has claimed that David Depape, the man accused of attacking House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband, carried zip ties with him.

In what bears an eerie similarity to the January 6 US Capitol riots, an Associated Press report has claimed that David Depape, the man accused of attacking House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband, carried zip ties with him. The report stated that during the Capitol Hill riots, the protesters could be heard looking for Pelosi by shouting 'Where's Nancy?' and carrying zip ties. A person associated with the investigation gave the details about the zip tie connection on the condition of anonymity. According to media reports, Depape before attacking Paul Pelosi also shouted, "Where is Nancy?", whilst carrying the zip-tie. The attacker's background also gives credence to the report. Depape is a self-described nudist activist who lives in the Bay Area and is a proponent of far-right conspiracy theories. WATCH | US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband assaulted with hammer × Depape has been arrested by the police and booked on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse, battery, burglary, and several other felonies. However, so far, no information regarding his motive has been communicated to the media or the public. On Friday, San Francisco Police Chief William Scott said that police detective, assisted by FBI agents, are yet to determine what caused the home invasion but added, "We know this was not a random act” and that it was targeted and "wrong." "The suspect pulled the hammer away from Mr Pelosi and violently assaulted him with it," San Francisco police chief Bill Scott told reporters. He later added that Paul Pelosi was hit at least once. As reported by WION, Nancy was in Washington DC at the time of the attack. After being informed of the intrusion, she rushed to the San Francisco hospital where Paul, 82, "underwent successful surgery to repair a skull fracture and serious injuries to his right arm and hands," according to Nancy's office. He is expected to make a full recovery. Read more: Man arrested in attack on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband faces charges On Sunday, Nancy took to Twitter to release a statement where she said her family was "heartbroken and traumatised" by the violent attack. Please know that the prayers and warm wishes from so many are a comfort to our family and are helping Paul make progress with his recovery. We are grateful for the quick response of law enforcement and emergency services, and for the life-saving medical care he is receiving. — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) October 30, 2022 × "Our children, our grandchildren and I are heartbroken and traumatized by the life-threatening attack on our Pop," said Pelosi. "Please know that the outpouring of prayers and warm wishes from so many in the Congress is a comfort to our family and is helping Paul make progress with his recovery. His condition continues to improve," she added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Paul Pelosi attacker carried zip ties similar to those found on Capitol Hill rioters: Report

The Oath Keepers, a far-right militia group, has gained notoriety in the United States recently due to their involvement in one of the major cases in relation to the US Capitol Hill riots. Five members of the group, including its leader Stewart Rhodes, were charged with “seditious conspiracy” and “spending months recruiting, training and conspiring to use force to prevent the transfer of presidential power”.&nbsp;The trial that began on Tuesday is considered the highest-profile prosecution related to the riot of January 6, 2021.&nbsp;

Possible punishment&nbsp;

If convicted, the five individuals can face around 20 years in prison. 20 other members of the group are also on trial at the moment, but the charges are not as serious as Rhodes and the four other men.&nbsp;

Why are they called Oath Keepers?&nbsp;

The Oath Keepers was launched in 2009 with a rally in Lexington, Massachusetts by Rhodes, a former US Army paratrooper who also worked as an aide to Republican politician Ron Paul. The group had a "pro-gun, anti-government" agenda with all members showing a heavy tilt towards the Republican Party.&nbsp;

According to CNN, the group mainly recruited former military and law enforcement personnel, with new recruits taking a pledge which was quite similar to the military oath. In the pledge, they promised to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic".&nbsp;

Why are the Oath Keepers on trial?&nbsp;

With Donald Trump rejecting the results of the US Presidential Elections, several of his supporters broke the barricade and entered the US Capitol Hill premises on January 6,&nbsp;2021. &nbsp;

According to the charges brought against the group, the Oath Keepers stored weapons in preparation for such an incident. And ahead of the riots, Rhodes sent a message to the members saying -&nbsp;"We aren't getting through this without a civil war. Too late for that. Prepare your mind, body, spirit."&nbsp;

While there was concrete proof that the members of the group physically entered the Capitol Hill premises, that charge was not brought against Rhodes. However, BBC reported that a documentary showed that he met with far-right group Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio on January 5, 2021.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Oath Keepers, a far-right militia group, has gained notoriety in the United States recently due to their involvement in one of the major cases in relation to the US Capitol Hill riots.

The Oath Keepers, a far-right militia group, has gained notoriety in the United States recently due to their involvement in one of the major cases in relation to the US Capitol Hill riots. Five members of the group, including its leader Stewart Rhodes, were charged with “seditious conspiracy” and “spending months recruiting, training and conspiring to use force to prevent the transfer of presidential power”. The trial that began on Tuesday is considered the highest-profile prosecution related to the riot of January 6, 2021. Possible punishment If convicted, the five individuals can face around 20 years in prison. 20 other members of the group are also on trial at the moment, but the charges are not as serious as Rhodes and the four other men. Why are they called Oath Keepers? The Oath Keepers was launched in 2009 with a rally in Lexington, Massachusetts by Rhodes, a former US Army paratrooper who also worked as an aide to Republican politician Ron Paul. The group had a "pro-gun, anti-government" agenda with all members showing a heavy tilt towards the Republican Party. According to CNN, the group mainly recruited former military and law enforcement personnel, with new recruits taking a pledge which was quite similar to the military oath. In the pledge, they promised to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Why are the Oath Keepers on trial? With Donald Trump rejecting the results of the US Presidential Elections, several of his supporters broke the barricade and entered the US Capitol Hill premises on January 6, 2021. According to the charges brought against the group, the Oath Keepers stored weapons in preparation for such an incident. And ahead of the riots, Rhodes sent a message to the members saying - "We aren't getting through this without a civil war. Too late for that. Prepare your mind, body, spirit." While there was concrete proof that the members of the group physically entered the Capitol Hill premises, that charge was not brought against Rhodes. However, BBC reported that a documentary showed that he met with far-right group Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio on January 5, 2021.

Explainer: Who are Oath Keepers, the far-right group on trial for involvement in US Capitol Hill riot?

Former United States president&nbsp;Donald Trump denied having any knowledge about his supporters starting a riot at the US Capitol Hill on January 6, according to a new book. Trump told New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman that he was not watching the television at that time and as a result, he came to know about the riots and other disturbances much later from members of his staff.

“I didn’t usually have the television on. I’d have it on if there was something. I then later turned it on, and I saw what was happening,” Haberman quoted Trump in the book “Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America”, according to The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-iranians-continue-to-protest-for-the-10th-consecutive-night-violating-judiciarys-warning-519612" hreflang="en">Iranians continue to protest for the 10th consecutive night, violating judiciary's warning</a>

“I had heard that afterward and actually on the late side. I was having meetings. I was also with [then-chief of staff] Mark Meadows and others. I was not watching television.”

The claims made by Trump in his interview with the author are a direct contradiction with his accounts in front of the congressional committee. The former president earlier claimed that he was watching the events unfold on television as the mob attacked the US Capitol Hill in 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-fires-deputy-defence-chief-after-supply-failures-in-ukraine-to-be-replaced-by-butcher-of-mariupol-519501">Putin fires deputy defence minister for supply failures in Ukraine operations</a>

Haberman also claimed in her book that Trump was shaken by the events that unfolded at US Capitol Hill and was aware of the fact that they tarnished his tenure at the White House.

“After the headiness of being at the center of the world’s gaze, his time after the White House made him seem shrunken. He often played golf and then went to his newly built office at the club for meetings with whoever travelled down to seek his approval,” the book claimed.

“He would watch television before going to dinner, where club members would sometimes applaud him, and then it would start all over again the next day, so removed from the daily rhythms of the broader world that he was oblivious to holidays on the calendar and staff had to remind him.”

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Former United States president Donald Trump denied having any knowledge about his supporters starting a riot at the US Capitol Hill on January 6, according to a new book.

Former United States president Donald Trump denied having any knowledge about his supporters starting a riot at the US Capitol Hill on January 6, according to a new book. Trump told New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman that he was not watching the television at that time and as a result, he came to know about the riots and other disturbances much later from members of his staff. “I didn’t usually have the television on. I’d have it on if there was something. I then later turned it on, and I saw what was happening,” Haberman quoted Trump in the book “Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America”, according to The Guardian. Also read | Iranians continue to protest for the 10th consecutive night, violating judiciary's warning “I had heard that afterward and actually on the late side. I was having meetings. I was also with [then-chief of staff] Mark Meadows and others. I was not watching television.” The claims made by Trump in his interview with the author are a direct contradiction with his accounts in front of the congressional committee. The former president earlier claimed that he was watching the events unfold on television as the mob attacked the US Capitol Hill in 2021. Also read | Putin fires deputy defence minister for supply failures in Ukraine operations Haberman also claimed in her book that Trump was shaken by the events that unfolded at US Capitol Hill and was aware of the fact that they tarnished his tenure at the White House. “After the headiness of being at the center of the world’s gaze, his time after the White House made him seem shrunken. He often played golf and then went to his newly built office at the club for meetings with whoever travelled down to seek his approval,” the book claimed. “He would watch television before going to dinner, where club members would sometimes applaud him, and then it would start all over again the next day, so removed from the daily rhythms of the broader world that he was oblivious to holidays on the calendar and staff had to remind him.”

Donald Trump claimed 'he was not watching television during Capitol Hill riots', new book says

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising.&nbsp;

Paul Hodgkins, 38, was the second person to plead guilty in what has been called an insurrection by supporters of president Donald Trump that shut down the Congress and stunned the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-people-charged-for-us-capitol-riots-arent-in-jail-new-analysis-reveals-388207">Majority of people charged for US Capitol riots aren't in jail, new analysis reveals</a>

The native of Tampa, Florida travelled alone to Washington on the day that President Joe Biden's election victory over Trump was to be certified by Congress.

Encouraged by statements from Trump, he and several hundred others stormed the&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;and broke inside, injuring scores of police officers.

Wearing a "Trump 2020" T-shirt and waving a flag with the same slogan, he took selfies on the Senate floor along with several others.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-republicans-block-bill-on-probe-of-deadly-capitol-riot-388115">Senate Republicans block bill on probe of deadly Capitol riot</a>

But he was not accused of assault or similar charges levied against many of those who took part.

Hodgkins's crime brings up to 20 years in prison, but the court said based on his lack of a criminal record and other factors he could receive between 15 and 21 months in prison.

With more than 450 people charged in the&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;assault, the Justice Department is reportedly seeking plea deals to clear out many cases. Most are facing relatively minor charges of disorderly conduct and illegally entering a federal building.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-egged-on-us-capitol-rioters-facebook-oversight-panel-co-chair-383955">Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair</a>

Several dozen, though, are charged with conspiracy and armed attack on law enforcement officials.

The Justice Department is reportedly still considering whether to charge some, especially those affiliated with armed, violent groups like the Proud Boys, with sedition.

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising.

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising. Paul Hodgkins, 38, was the second person to plead guilty in what has been called an insurrection by supporters of president Donald Trump that shut down the Congress and stunned the country. Also Read | Majority of people charged for US Capitol riots aren't in jail, new analysis reveals The native of Tampa, Florida travelled alone to Washington on the day that President Joe Biden's election victory over Trump was to be certified by Congress. Encouraged by statements from Trump, he and several hundred others stormed the Capitol and broke inside, injuring scores of police officers. Wearing a "Trump 2020" T-shirt and waving a flag with the same slogan, he took selfies on the Senate floor along with several others. Also Read | Senate Republicans block bill on probe of deadly Capitol riot But he was not accused of assault or similar charges levied against many of those who took part. Hodgkins's crime brings up to 20 years in prison, but the court said based on his lack of a criminal record and other factors he could receive between 15 and 21 months in prison. With more than 450 people charged in the Capitol assault, the Justice Department is reportedly seeking plea deals to clear out many cases. Most are facing relatively minor charges of disorderly conduct and illegally entering a federal building. Also Read | Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair Several dozen, though, are charged with conspiracy and armed attack on law enforcement officials. The Justice Department is reportedly still considering whether to charge some, especially those affiliated with armed, violent groups like the Proud Boys, with sedition.

Second rioter who took selfie in Senate chamber pleads guilty in US Capitol attack

Over a month after the riots which rocked the US capitol hill. the US congress held a series of congressional hearings this week to understand what actually happened on January 6th.

Capitol Hill Riots: Congressional hearings on January 6th attack underway

Former President Donald Trump&nbsp;said on Tuesday that the US Senate has no authority to try him as a private citizen on an impeachment charge that he incited the Capitol riots.

Trump&nbsp;became the first US president in history to be impeached twice when the House of Representatives charged him last month with inciting the mayhem inflicted by his followers when they invaded Congress on January 6.

Trump's defence team said that not only does the Senate lack the authority to put Trump on trial as a private citizen but that the chamber also lacks the jurisdiction to prevent Trump from holding office again.

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In a pre-trial brief, the House impeachment managers made their case for the Senate to convict, saying the American people should be protected "against a president who provokes violence to subvert our democracy."

Trump's impeachment was triggered by a speech he delivered to a crowd on the National Mall just before the riot, telling them Joe Biden had stolen the presidential election and that they needed to march on Congress and "fight like hell."

The mob stormed the Capitol, fatally wounded one police officer, wrecked furniture and forced terrified lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence to hide, interrupting a ceremony to put the legal stamp on Biden's victory.&nbsp;

The nine impeachment managers, all Democrats, argued in their sweeping 77-page document that&nbsp;Trump's speech had whipped the crowd into a "frenzy."

Trump, they said, "is singularly responsible for the violence and destruction" during the riot that left five people dead.

During his January&nbsp;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 favour 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.

The Tuesday deadline for briefs in the case came 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.

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. "Presidents do not get a free pass to commit high crimes and misdemeanours near the end of their term."

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 investigates Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in an 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 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 US&nbsp;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.

Former President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the US Senate has no authority to try him as a private citizen on an impeachment charge that he incited the Capitol riots.

Former President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the US Senate has no authority to try him as a private citizen on an impeachment charge that he incited the Capitol riots. Trump became the first US president in history to be impeached twice when the House of Representatives charged him last month with inciting the mayhem inflicted by his followers when they invaded Congress on January 6. Trump's defence team said that not only does the Senate lack the authority to put Trump on trial as a private citizen but that the chamber also lacks the jurisdiction to prevent Trump from holding office again. In a pre-trial brief, the House impeachment managers made their case for the Senate to convict, saying the American people should be protected "against a president who provokes violence to subvert our democracy." Trump's impeachment was triggered by a speech he delivered to a crowd on the National Mall just before the riot, telling them Joe Biden had stolen the presidential election and that they needed to march on Congress and "fight like hell." The mob stormed the Capitol, fatally wounded one police officer, wrecked furniture and forced terrified lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence to hide, interrupting a ceremony to put the legal stamp on Biden's victory. The nine impeachment managers, all Democrats, argued in their sweeping 77-page document that Trump's speech had whipped the crowd into a "frenzy." Trump, they said, "is singularly responsible for the violence and destruction" during the riot that left five people dead. During his January 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 favour 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. The Tuesday deadline for briefs in the case came 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. 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. "Presidents do not get a free pass to commit high crimes and misdemeanours near the end of their term." 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 investigates Biden and his son Hunter, ended last year in an 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 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 US 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.

Donald Trump's lawyers say Senate has no authority to put him on trial

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:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-donald-trump-be-impeached-356125/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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

Apple Inc and&nbsp;Amazon.com Inc have suspended Parler from their respective App Store and web hosting service&nbsp;for allowing "threats of violence," after the deadly attack on the US Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump.

"Parler has not taken adequate measures to address the proliferation of these threats to people's safety. We have suspended Parler from the App Store until they resolve these issues," the iPhone maker said in a statement Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-suspends-american-social-networking-app-apple-gives-24-hour-warning-355520" hreflang="en">Google suspends American social networking app; Apple gives 24-hour warning</a>

Apple&nbsp;had given the service 24 hours to submit a detailed moderation plan, pointing to participants' using the service to coordinate Wednesday's siege of the US&nbsp;Capitol.

Parler Chief Executive John Matze said&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;was banning the service until it gives up free speech and institutes "broad and invasive policies like Twitter and Facebook."

"They claim it is due to violence on the platform. The community disagrees as we hit number 1 on their store today," Matze said in a post on Parler.

Amazon&nbsp;has suspended Parler from its&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;Web Services (AWS) unit, for violating AWS's terms of services by failing to effectively deal with a steady increase in violent content on the social networking service&nbsp;late on Saturday.

The Parler social network has become a haven for conservatives who say they have been censored by other social media platforms.

It had soared in popularity in recent months, becoming the No. 1 free app on&nbsp;Apple's App Store on Saturday after Twitter's decision hours earlier to permanently ban Trump from its platform.

Right-leaning social media users in the United States have flocked to Parler, messaging app Telegram and hands-off social site Gab, citing the more aggressive policing of political comments on mainstream platforms such as Twitter Inc and Facebook Inc.&nbsp;

"More details about our next plans coming soon as we have many options," Matze said.

Apple's action follows a similar move by Alphabet Inc's Google, which on Friday suspended Parler, saying that it must demonstrate "robust" content moderation if it wants to get back in the store.

Angry Trump supporters swarmed the building as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden's November 3 election win, leaving five people -- including a policeman -- dead.

Other mainstream social media networks like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitch have also suspended Trump following the attack on the Capitol.

Parler started in 2018 and was initially a home for the extreme right, but now it attracts more traditional conservative voices including Republican lawmakers.

Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc have suspended Parler from their respective App Store and web hosting service for allowing "threats of violence," after the deadly attack on the US Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump.

Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc have suspended Parler from their respective App Store and web hosting service for allowing "threats of violence," after the deadly attack on the US Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump. "Parler has not taken adequate measures to address the proliferation of these threats to people's safety. We have suspended Parler from the App Store until they resolve these issues," the iPhone maker said in a statement Saturday. Also read: Google suspends American social networking app; Apple gives 24-hour warning Apple had given the service 24 hours to submit a detailed moderation plan, pointing to participants' using the service to coordinate Wednesday's siege of the US Capitol. Parler Chief Executive John Matze said Apple was banning the service until it gives up free speech and institutes "broad and invasive policies like Twitter and Facebook." "They claim it is due to violence on the platform. The community disagrees as we hit number 1 on their store today," Matze said in a post on Parler. Amazon has suspended Parler from its Amazon Web Services (AWS) unit, for violating AWS's terms of services by failing to effectively deal with a steady increase in violent content on the social networking service late on Saturday. The Parler social network has become a haven for conservatives who say they have been censored by other social media platforms. It had soared in popularity in recent months, becoming the No. 1 free app on Apple's App Store on Saturday after Twitter's decision hours earlier to permanently ban Trump from its platform. Right-leaning social media users in the United States have flocked to Parler, messaging app Telegram and hands-off social site Gab, citing the more aggressive policing of political comments on mainstream platforms such as Twitter Inc and Facebook Inc. "More details about our next plans coming soon as we have many options," Matze said. Apple's action follows a similar move by Alphabet Inc's Google, which on Friday suspended Parler, saying that it must demonstrate "robust" content moderation if it wants to get back in the store. Angry Trump supporters swarmed the building as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden's November 3 election win, leaving five people -- including a policeman -- dead. Other mainstream social media networks like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitch have also suspended Trump following the attack on the Capitol. Parler started in 2018 and was initially a home for the extreme right, but now it attracts more traditional conservative voices including Republican lawmakers.

After Google, Apple and Amazon suspend Parler social networking app for 'threats of violence'

A prominent follower of conspiracy theory QAnon who featured prominently on social media wearing horns, a fur pelt, face paint and brandishing a spear adorned with the US&nbsp;flag during the&nbsp;Capitol hill riots has been charged with felony crimes by federal agents.

"Jacob Anthony Chansley, a.k.a. Jake Angeli, of Arizona, was charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, and with violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds," the Justice Department said in a statement on Saturday.&nbsp;

Chansley, who calls himself&nbsp;'QAnon Shaman' was arrested after&nbsp;the FBI had asked the public for help identifying participants, given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<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>

Chansley was identified on social media as being from Phoenix, Arizona.

Federal agents also arrested Adam Christian Johnson, whose photo as he smiled and waved as he carried off House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern also went viral. Johnson, of Parrish, Florida, also streamed live video on Facebook of himself as he walked the halls of the Capitol, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

The video has been removed from online platforms and all of Johnson's pages have been taken down.

On Saturday Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat who is the incoming chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, wrote to the chief executives of 11 mobile carriers and social media companies, urging them to preserve content and associated meta-data connected to the riot, which erupted as lawmakers gathered to certify the election of Democratic President-elect Joe Biden.

In his letters, Warner emphasized how the rioters took time to document the event and share it through social media and text messages "to celebrate their disdain for our democratic process."

Before his arrest, NBC network reported, Chansley gloated about how the crowd infiltrated the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to flee.

"The fact that we had a bunch of traitors in office, hunkered down, put on gas masks and retreat to their underground bunker, I consider that a win," he said to NBC News.

<img alt="aa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29b774a5-e684-4449-8623-a7d8520720cc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_87.jpg" />

In picture:&nbsp;Supporters of US President Donald Trump, including a member of the QAnon conspiracy group Jake Angeli, aka Yellowstone Wolf (C), enter the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, in Washington, DC/AFP

Chansley faces several federal charges including violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.

Media reports said Chansley had often been seen at rallies supporting Trump.&nbsp;It was unclear where Chansley was being held Saturday, or whether he or Johnson had legal representation.

Johnson, who has a first appearance in federal court on Monday, is being charged out of Washington.

Threats to speaker

One man who was arrested in connection with the events at the Capitol and threats to lawmakers told FBI agents he arrived in Washington on Thursday, a day late for the rally, after being delayed en route in Ohio, federal court documents showed.

Cleveland Meredith was found with a Tavor X95 assault rifle, a Glock pistol, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and was detained in connection with making threats to Pelosi after an FBI agent read January&nbsp;7 text messages in which Meredith talked about "putting a bullet in her noggin on Live TV" and running her over with his truck, according to a criminal complaint.

At least a dozen other people were facing criminal charges in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in connection to the riot, and at least another 40 people faced lesser charges in the District of Columbia Superior Court, a local venue. Many of them were arraigned on Thursday and released, with an order from the judge not to return to Washington unless for court appearances or meetings with their attorneys.

They included Richard Barnett, the Gravette, Arkansas, the man who was photographed sitting at Pelosi's desk, his feet up on the furniture.

Nicholas Ochs, self-professed leader of the Hawaii chapter of the far-right Proud Boys group and who made a failed bid for a seat in the Hawaii House of Representatives in November, was arrested on his return to Honolulu and charged with unlawful entry into restricted buildings or grounds, federal prosecutors said in a statement. It was not immediately clear whether he had a lawyer.

Among those arrested Friday for participating in the riot was West Virginia House of Delegates member Derrick Evans, who announced his resignation on Saturday in a one-line statement.

Evans, who had just been elected in November and on his campaign website had promoted himself as "a Pro-Trump conservative who will always stand up, speak out, and Fight For Christian Values," live-streamed himself entering the Capitol on Wednesday, and was recorded saying, "We're in, we're in! Derrick Evans is in the Capitol," the Justice Department said in a release.

The FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. Sicknick had just been sworn in with the U.S. Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Steven D'Antuono, the FBI Washington Field Office's assistant director in charge, said on Friday that rioters who had since returned home were not safe from arrest.

"Just because you've left the D.C. region, you can still expect a knock on the door if we find out you were part of the criminal activity at the Capitol," D'Antuono said.

&nbsp;

A prominent follower of conspiracy theory QAnon who featured prominently on social media wearing horns, a fur pelt, face paint and brandishing a spear adorned with the US flag during the Capitol hill riots has been charged with felony crimes by federal agents.

A prominent follower of conspiracy theory QAnon who featured prominently on social media wearing horns, a fur pelt, face paint and brandishing a spear adorned with the US flag during the Capitol hill riots has been charged with felony crimes by federal agents. "Jacob Anthony Chansley, a.k.a. Jake Angeli, of Arizona, was charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, and with violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds," the Justice Department said in a statement on Saturday. Chansley, who calls himself 'QAnon Shaman' was arrested after the FBI had asked the public for help identifying participants, given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet. Also see: In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police Chansley was identified on social media as being from Phoenix, Arizona. Federal agents also arrested Adam Christian Johnson, whose photo as he smiled and waved as he carried off House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern also went viral. Johnson, of Parrish, Florida, also streamed live video on Facebook of himself as he walked the halls of the Capitol, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The video has been removed from online platforms and all of Johnson's pages have been taken down. On Saturday Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat who is the incoming chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, wrote to the chief executives of 11 mobile carriers and social media companies, urging them to preserve content and associated meta-data connected to the riot, which erupted as lawmakers gathered to certify the election of Democratic President-elect Joe Biden. In his letters, Warner emphasized how the rioters took time to document the event and share it through social media and text messages "to celebrate their disdain for our democratic process." Before his arrest, NBC network reported, Chansley gloated about how the crowd infiltrated the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to flee. "The fact that we had a bunch of traitors in office, hunkered down, put on gas masks and retreat to their underground bunker, I consider that a win," he said to NBC News. In picture: Supporters of US President Donald Trump, including a member of the QAnon conspiracy group Jake Angeli, aka Yellowstone Wolf (C), enter the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, in Washington, DC/AFP Chansley faces several federal charges including violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Media reports said Chansley had often been seen at rallies supporting Trump. It was unclear where Chansley was being held Saturday, or whether he or Johnson had legal representation. Johnson, who has a first appearance in federal court on Monday, is being charged out of Washington. Threats to speaker One man who was arrested in connection with the events at the Capitol and threats to lawmakers told FBI agents he arrived in Washington on Thursday, a day late for the rally, after being delayed en route in Ohio, federal court documents showed. Cleveland Meredith was found with a Tavor X95 assault rifle, a Glock pistol, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and was detained in connection with making threats to Pelosi after an FBI agent read January 7 text messages in which Meredith talked about "putting a bullet in her noggin on Live TV" and running her over with his truck, according to a criminal complaint. At least a dozen other people were facing criminal charges in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in connection to the riot, and at least another 40 people faced lesser charges in the District of Columbia Superior Court, a local venue. Many of them were arraigned on Thursday and released, with an order from the judge not to return to Washington unless for court appearances or meetings with their attorneys. They included Richard Barnett, the Gravette, Arkansas, the man who was photographed sitting at Pelosi's desk, his feet up on the furniture. Nicholas Ochs, self-professed leader of the Hawaii chapter of the far-right Proud Boys group and who made a failed bid for a seat in the Hawaii House of Representatives in November, was arrested on his return to Honolulu and charged with unlawful entry into restricted buildings or grounds, federal prosecutors said in a statement. It was not immediately clear whether he had a lawyer. Among those arrested Friday for participating in the riot was West Virginia House of Delegates member Derrick Evans, who announced his resignation on Saturday in a one-line statement. Evans, who had just been elected in November and on his campaign website had promoted himself as "a Pro-Trump conservative who will always stand up, speak out, and Fight For Christian Values," live-streamed himself entering the Capitol on Wednesday, and was recorded saying, "We're in, we're in! Derrick Evans is in the Capitol," the Justice Department said in a release. The FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. Sicknick had just been sworn in with the U.S. Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Steven D'Antuono, the FBI Washington Field Office's assistant director in charge, said on Friday that rioters who had since returned home were not safe from arrest. "Just because you've left the D.C. region, you can still expect a knock on the door if we find out you were part of the criminal activity at the Capitol," D'Antuono said.

US Capitol invader 'QAnon Shaman' Jake Angeli charged over pro-Trump riots

US federal prosecutors are opening a murder investigation after a Capitol Police officer died Thursday in the aftermath of pro-Trump supporters' invasion of Congress.

According to a report in CNN, representatives for the Washington police department's homicide division is investigating alongside federal law enforcement agencies.

The officer, Brian Sicknick, was the fifth person to die after Trump supporters rioted at the US Capitol on Wednesday. The Republican president had summoned them to Washington for a rally and urged them to fight as lawmakers were meeting to certify his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. The deaths also included some rioters.

Sicknick died on Thursday after being taken to a hospital following his collapse after he returned to his divisional office, the police said.

"The perpetrators of Officer Sicknick’s death must be brought to justice," US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in statement offering condolences to his family. She ordered flags at the Capitol to be lowered to half-staff in his honour.&nbsp;

US Capitol Police said "Sicknick was responding to the riots ... and was injured while physically engaging with protesters."&nbsp;

Sicknick suffered a stroke and was on life support before he died, a CBS News affiliate reported. He was a 12-year veteran of the force.

Trump, who initially praised his supporters, later condemned Wednesday's violence, saying rioters must be held accountable. A woman demonstrator was fatally shot by authorities, and three people died from medical emergencies.

Meanwhile, the US Justice Department announced Friday that it has charged 15 people involved in the assault on Congress, including one man accused of possessing bombs made to act like "homemade napalm."

But Ken Kohl, a federal prosecutor with the Washington US attorney's office, said they did not expect to charge anyone with "incitement" or "insurrection" in Wednesday's violence, amid calls for legal action against Trump, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others for encouraging it.

The department unveiled the cases against 13 people, including 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 and had 11 Styrofoam-enhanced Molotov cocktails in his truck.

Others whose charges were unsealed include Christopher Albert of Maryland, who allegedly entered the US Capitol with a loaded handgun; and Mark Leffingwell, charged with punching an officer.

Most of the 13 were charged with illegal entry into restricted buildings of Congress, and violent or disorderly conduct.

They were also charged with impeding government functions after forcing the shutdown of a joint meeting of Congress to officially certify that Trump rival Joe Biden had won the November 3 election, which Trump had until Thursday refused to accept.

(with inputs from agencies)

US federal prosecutors are opening a murder investigation after a Capitol Police officer died Thursday in the aftermath of pro-Trump supporters' invasion of Congress.

US federal prosecutors are opening a murder investigation after a Capitol Police officer died Thursday in the aftermath of pro-Trump supporters' invasion of Congress. According to a report in CNN, representatives for the Washington police department's homicide division is investigating alongside federal law enforcement agencies. The officer, Brian Sicknick, was the fifth person to die after Trump supporters rioted at the US Capitol on Wednesday. The Republican president had summoned them to Washington for a rally and urged them to fight as lawmakers were meeting to certify his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. The deaths also included some rioters. Sicknick died on Thursday after being taken to a hospital following his collapse after he returned to his divisional office, the police said. "The perpetrators of Officer Sicknick’s death must be brought to justice," US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in statement offering condolences to his family. She ordered flags at the Capitol to be lowered to half-staff in his honour. US Capitol Police said "Sicknick was responding to the riots ... and was injured while physically engaging with protesters." Sicknick suffered a stroke and was on life support before he died, a CBS News affiliate reported. He was a 12-year veteran of the force. Trump, who initially praised his supporters, later condemned Wednesday's violence, saying rioters must be held accountable. A woman demonstrator was fatally shot by authorities, and three people died from medical emergencies. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department announced Friday that it has charged 15 people involved in the assault on Congress, including one man accused of possessing bombs made to act like "homemade napalm." But Ken Kohl, a federal prosecutor with the Washington US attorney's office, said they did not expect to charge anyone with "incitement" or "insurrection" in Wednesday's violence, amid calls for legal action against Trump, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others for encouraging it. The department unveiled the cases against 13 people, including 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 and had 11 Styrofoam-enhanced Molotov cocktails in his truck. Others whose charges were unsealed include Christopher Albert of Maryland, who allegedly entered the US Capitol with a loaded handgun; and Mark Leffingwell, charged with punching an officer. Most of the 13 were charged with illegal entry into restricted buildings of Congress, and violent or disorderly conduct. They were also charged with impeding government functions after forcing the shutdown of a joint meeting of Congress to officially certify that Trump rival Joe Biden had won the November 3 election, which Trump had until Thursday refused to accept. (with inputs from agencies)

US officials to open murder probe in Capitol police officer's death

Social networking giant Twitter quickly deleted new tweets from US&nbsp;President Donald Trump from an official government account after the social media site had banned his personal account.

"After a close review of recent Tweets from the @realDonaldTrump account," Twitter said in a <a href="https://blog.twitter.com/en_us/topics/company/2020/suspension.html">blog post</a> explaining its decision, "we have permanently suspended the account due to the risk of further incitement of violence."&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<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>

US President Donald Trump on Friday accused Twitter of conspiring with his political enemies "to silence me," after the social media platform permanently suspended his account.

"Twitter has gone further and further in banning free speech, and tonight, Twitter employees have coordinated with the Democrats and the Radical Left in removing my account from their platform, to silence me -- and YOU, the 75,000,000 great patriots who voted for me," he said in a series of tweets from the official @POTUS account.

Twitter had&nbsp;temporarily blocked Trump's account on Wednesday,&nbsp;following the siege of Capitol Hill by pro-Trump protesters, and warned that additional violations by the president's accounts would result in a permanent suspension.

The social media platform was&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;favourite megaphone and he has&nbsp;had more than 88 million followers.

Trump returned to Twitter late Thursday, posting a video message that seemed aimed at calming tensions after the mayhem caused by his supporters.

He acknowledged his presidency was ending and promised a smooth transition to Joe Biden, although he did not go so far as to congratulate or even say the name of his successor.

Twitter said at the time it was continuing to watch Trump's social media activity to determine whether further action was needed.

The decision to suspend Trump's account came after a pair of tweets on Friday, according to the one-to-many messaging platform.

In one of the tweets, Trump vowed that none of his supporters would be "disrespected," and in another, he said he would not be attending Biden's inauguration on January 20, as is customary.

"These two Tweets must be read in the context of broader events in the country and the ways in which the President's statements can be mobilized by different audiences, including to incite violence, as well as in the context of the pattern of behaviour from this account in recent weeks," Twitter said.

The company determined the tweets violated its "Glorification of Violence&nbsp;Policy," and that "user @realDonaldTrump&nbsp;should be immediately permanently suspended from the service."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="YouTube removes thousands of videos posted from Donald Trump's channel">YouTube removes thousands of videos posted from Donald Trump's channel</a>

Talk of new attack&nbsp;

Twitter said it also factored in that plans for more armed protests have been proliferating on and off the service, including a proposed second attack on the US Capitol and state capitol buildings on January 17.

Trump's tweeted statement about not attending the Inauguration has been received by some supporters as his continued rejection of the election's legitimacy and a sign that the event would be a "safe target" since he won't be there, according to Twitter.

The wording in Trump's Friday tweets was seen by some supporters as praise for those involved in what has been described as a coup attempt, and an indication he does not plan to smoothly yield power to Biden, Twitter said in the post.

Twitter confirmed that several hundred employees signed a letter to chief executive Jack Dorsey saying they were disturbed by the "insurrection" carried out by Trump supporters, who had been rallied by the president.

The employees called for Twitter to assess the role its platform played in Wednesday's events.

"Twitter encourages an open dialogue between our leadership and employees, and we welcome our employees to express their thoughts and concerns in whichever manner feels right to them," a company spokesperson said of the letter.

Social networking giant Twitter quickly deleted new tweets from US President Donald Trump from an official government account after the social media site had banned his personal account.

Social networking giant Twitter quickly deleted new tweets from US President Donald Trump from an official government account after the social media site had banned his personal account. "After a close review of recent Tweets from the @realDonaldTrump account," Twitter said in a blog post explaining its decision, "we have permanently suspended the account due to the risk of further incitement of violence." Also see: In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police US President Donald Trump on Friday accused Twitter of conspiring with his political enemies "to silence me," after the social media platform permanently suspended his account. "Twitter has gone further and further in banning free speech, and tonight, Twitter employees have coordinated with the Democrats and the Radical Left in removing my account from their platform, to silence me -- and YOU, the 75,000,000 great patriots who voted for me," he said in a series of tweets from the official @POTUS account. Twitter had temporarily blocked Trump's account on Wednesday, following the siege of Capitol Hill by pro-Trump protesters, and warned that additional violations by the president's accounts would result in a permanent suspension. The social media platform was Trump's favourite megaphone and he has had more than 88 million followers. Trump returned to Twitter late Thursday, posting a video message that seemed aimed at calming tensions after the mayhem caused by his supporters. He acknowledged his presidency was ending and promised a smooth transition to Joe Biden, although he did not go so far as to congratulate or even say the name of his successor. Twitter said at the time it was continuing to watch Trump's social media activity to determine whether further action was needed. The decision to suspend Trump's account came after a pair of tweets on Friday, according to the one-to-many messaging platform. In one of the tweets, Trump vowed that none of his supporters would be "disrespected," and in another, he said he would not be attending Biden's inauguration on January 20, as is customary. "These two Tweets must be read in the context of broader events in the country and the ways in which the President's statements can be mobilized by different audiences, including to incite violence, as well as in the context of the pattern of behaviour from this account in recent weeks," Twitter said. The company determined the tweets violated its "Glorification of Violence Policy," and that "user @realDonaldTrump should be immediately permanently suspended from the service." Also read: YouTube removes thousands of videos posted from Donald Trump's channel Talk of new attack Twitter said it also factored in that plans for more armed protests have been proliferating on and off the service, including a proposed second attack on the US Capitol and state capitol buildings on January 17. Trump's tweeted statement about not attending the Inauguration has been received by some supporters as his continued rejection of the election's legitimacy and a sign that the event would be a "safe target" since he won't be there, according to Twitter. The wording in Trump's Friday tweets was seen by some supporters as praise for those involved in what has been described as a coup attempt, and an indication he does not plan to smoothly yield power to Biden, Twitter said in the post. Twitter confirmed that several hundred employees signed a letter to chief executive Jack Dorsey saying they were disturbed by the "insurrection" carried out by Trump supporters, who had been rallied by the president. The employees called for Twitter to assess the role its platform played in Wednesday's events. "Twitter encourages an open dialogue between our leadership and employees, and we welcome our employees to express their thoughts and concerns in whichever manner feels right to them," a company spokesperson said of the letter.

Twitter permanently suspends Trump's account, deletes POTUS' new tweets

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were&nbsp;rescued&nbsp;after&nbsp;an overloaded&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat capsized off&nbsp;north&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said.

The boat carrying nearly 60 people capsized on Saturday night near the port city of Tripoli, the departure point for a growing number of people attempting a potentially lethal sea escape.

The deadly accident, weeks ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for May 15, is not the first of its kind for the crisis-hit country grappling with its worst-ever financial crash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-hands-over-337-ancient-artifacts-to-iraq-451135">Lebanon hands over 337 ancient artifacts to Iraq</a>

But it marks a grim reminder of the suffering behind a growing number of people, including Lebanese nationals and Syrian refugees, risking their lives at sea in search of a future abroad.

"The army's naval forces managed to rescue&nbsp;48&nbsp;people and retrieve the body of a&nbsp;dead&nbsp;girl... from a boat that sank while trying to illegally smuggle them out," the army said in a statement.

"Most people on board were&nbsp;rescued," the army said, without specifying their nationalities.

The army retrieved five corpses&nbsp;off&nbsp;Tripoli's coast on Sunday, the state-run National News Agency reported, hours&nbsp;after&nbsp;the body of a little girl was returned to shore.

Wails of relatives rang out from a Tripoli morgue where the corpses were being kept, according to an AFP correspondent.

Dozens looked on as a group of men stormed into the morgue and pulled out the corpse of a victim for burial, the correspondent said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Migrant boat capsizes of Lebanon, Lebanese officials rescue 50 migrants

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/migrant-boat-capsizes-of-lebanon-lebanese-officials-rescue-50-migrants-473438/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nearby dozens of young men lobbed stones at two army tanks, to vent their anger at the sea tragedy.

At Tripoli's port, relatives of the missing impatiently waited for news of their loved ones.

"My nephew, he has five children and his wife is pregnant with twins. He was trying to escape hunger and poverty," one man told AFP at the dockside harbour.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Sunk in seconds&nbsp;

Haissam Dannaoui, the head of&nbsp;Lebanon's naval forces, said the 10-meter (33-foot) boat built in 1974 was designed to only accomodate six passengers.

But it was crammed with nearly 60 would-be migrants and took to sea without any safety precautions, he told a news conference.

Dannaoui said the army tried to thwart the smuggling operation before the&nbsp;ship&nbsp;sailed out of the Qalamoun region, south of Tripoli, but could not reach the departure point in time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-you-in-your-madness-lebanon-changes-slogan-to-attract-tourists-427041">‘I love you in your madness’: Lebanon changes slogan to attract tourists</a>

An ensuing sea chase saw two naval patrols trying to force the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat to turn back.

"Unfortunately, the captain (of the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat) decided to carry out manoeuvres to escape," leading to the vessel crashing into the patrol ships, Dannaoui said.

The impact cracked the hull of the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat, which quickly submerged, he said.

"In less than five seconds, the boat was under water," Dannaoui said, adding that passengers were quickly handed life jackets.

But one of the survivors said a naval&nbsp;ship&nbsp;had deliberately crashed into the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat to force it back.

"Tho patrol boat crashed into us twice... to drown us," the man told AFP at the port, before he was silenced and carried&nbsp;off&nbsp;by a crowd of survivors' relatives.

The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;Najat Rochdi called for an end to these repeated tragedies.&nbsp;

"It's horrific to see deprivation still pushing people to take a perilous journey across the seas," she said on Twitter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-says-government-cant-afford-to-resign-as-saudi-rift-widens-425326">Lebanon says government can't afford to resign as Saudi rift widens</a>

Death catches up

The latest incident stoked public anger in Tripoli,&nbsp;Lebanon's second city and one of its poorest.

Growing poverty and unemployment rates have turned Tripoli into a launchpad for illegal migrants.

Calls circulated on social media networks for protests outside the Tripoli home of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who declared Monday a day of national mourning to grieve the victims.

The relatives of the victims and the missing lashed out at the country's leaders.

"Even when we are trying to run away from the filth of politicians and their corruption... death catches up with us," said Nissrine Merheb who hasn't heard from her two cousins and their three children since they embarked on the deadly voyage.&nbsp;

Lebanon&nbsp;is in the grips of an unprecedented financial crisis, with the currency losing more than 90 percent of its value and the majority of the population living below the poverty line.

The economic crash has spurred an uptick in illegal sea crossings, with Lebanese nationals increasingly featuring among the Syrian and Palestinian refugees attempting sea escapes.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-loses-electricity-as-2-power-stations-face-shut-down-amid-fuel-crisis-419481">Lebanon loses electricity as 2 power stations face shut down amid fuel crisis</a>

The UN refugee agency says at&nbsp;least&nbsp;1,570 people, 186 of them Lebanese, left or tried to leave illegally by sea from&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;between January and November 2021.

Most were hoping to reach European Union member Cyprus, an island 175 kilometres (110 miles) away.

In the second half of 2021,&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;stopped around 500 would-be migrants from crossing out of the country, the country's naval chief said Saturday.

At least six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were rescued after an overloaded migrant boat capsized off north Lebanon during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said.

At least six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were rescued after an overloaded migrant boat capsized off north Lebanon during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said. The boat carrying nearly 60 people capsized on Saturday night near the port city of Tripoli, the departure point for a growing number of people attempting a potentially lethal sea escape. The deadly accident, weeks ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for May 15, is not the first of its kind for the crisis-hit country grappling with its worst-ever financial crash. Also read | Lebanon hands over 337 ancient artifacts to Iraq But it marks a grim reminder of the suffering behind a growing number of people, including Lebanese nationals and Syrian refugees, risking their lives at sea in search of a future abroad. "The army's naval forces managed to rescue 48 people and retrieve the body of a dead girl... from a boat that sank while trying to illegally smuggle them out," the army said in a statement. "Most people on board were rescued," the army said, without specifying their nationalities. The army retrieved five corpses off Tripoli's coast on Sunday, the state-run National News Agency reported, hours after the body of a little girl was returned to shore. Wails of relatives rang out from a Tripoli morgue where the corpses were being kept, according to an AFP correspondent. Dozens looked on as a group of men stormed into the morgue and pulled out the corpse of a victim for burial, the correspondent said. Watch | Migrant boat capsizes of Lebanon, Lebanese officials rescue 50 migrants Nearby dozens of young men lobbed stones at two army tanks, to vent their anger at the sea tragedy. At Tripoli's port, relatives of the missing impatiently waited for news of their loved ones. "My nephew, he has five children and his wife is pregnant with twins. He was trying to escape hunger and poverty," one man told AFP at the dockside harbour. Sunk in seconds Haissam Dannaoui, the head of Lebanon's naval forces, said the 10-meter (33-foot) boat built in 1974 was designed to only accomodate six passengers. But it was crammed with nearly 60 would-be migrants and took to sea without any safety precautions, he told a news conference. Dannaoui said the army tried to thwart the smuggling operation before the ship sailed out of the Qalamoun region, south of Tripoli, but could not reach the departure point in time. Also read | ‘I love you in your madness’: Lebanon changes slogan to attract tourists An ensuing sea chase saw two naval patrols trying to force the migrant boat to turn back. "Unfortunately, the captain (of the migrant boat) decided to carry out manoeuvres to escape," leading to the vessel crashing into the patrol ships, Dannaoui said. The impact cracked the hull of the migrant boat, which quickly submerged, he said. "In less than five seconds, the boat was under water," Dannaoui said, adding that passengers were quickly handed life jackets. But one of the survivors said a naval ship had deliberately crashed into the migrant boat to force it back. "Tho patrol boat crashed into us twice... to drown us," the man told AFP at the port, before he was silenced and carried off by a crowd of survivors' relatives. The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Najat Rochdi called for an end to these repeated tragedies. "It's horrific to see deprivation still pushing people to take a perilous journey across the seas," she said on Twitter. Also read | Lebanon says government can't afford to resign as Saudi rift widens Death catches up The latest incident stoked public anger in Tripoli, Lebanon's second city and one of its poorest. Growing poverty and unemployment rates have turned Tripoli into a launchpad for illegal migrants. Calls circulated on social media networks for protests outside the Tripoli home of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who declared Monday a day of national mourning to grieve the victims. The relatives of the victims and the missing lashed out at the country's leaders. "Even when we are trying to run away from the filth of politicians and their corruption... death catches up with us," said Nissrine Merheb who hasn't heard from her two cousins and their three children since they embarked on the deadly voyage. Lebanon is in the grips of an unprecedented financial crisis, with the currency losing more than 90 percent of its value and the majority of the population living below the poverty line. The economic crash has spurred an uptick in illegal sea crossings, with Lebanese nationals increasingly featuring among the Syrian and Palestinian refugees attempting sea escapes. Also read | Lebanon loses electricity as 2 power stations face shut down amid fuel crisis The UN refugee agency says at least 1,570 people, 186 of them Lebanese, left or tried to leave illegally by sea from Lebanon between January and November 2021. Most were hoping to reach European Union member Cyprus, an island 175 kilometres (110 miles) away. In the second half of 2021, Lebanon stopped around 500 would-be migrants from crossing out of the country, the country's naval chief said Saturday.

Facebook has banned Donald Trump indefinitely, says Mark Zuckerberg

US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos resigned on Thursday, joining a list of officials quitting President Donald Trump's administration in protest at the storming of the Capitol by his supporters.

Chao, the wife of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, said in an email to staff that the mob attack "has deeply troubled me in a way that I simply cannot set aside." She said her resignation will take effect on Monday.

In a letter to Trump, DeVos said the attack on the Capitol was unconscionable. "There is no mistaking the impact your rhetoric had on the situation, and it is the inflection point for me," she wrote, adding her resignation would be effective Friday.

With less than two weeks left of Trump's presidency, many aides were already heading for the door, but the sudden exodus suggested revulsion among some over his encouragement of supporters who brought chaos to the Capitol on Wednesday in an ultimately futile bid to prevent formal certification of Democrat Joe Biden's election victory.

Deputy national security advisor Matt Pottinger, a leading aide on Trump's China policy, quit abruptly on Wednesday, said a senior administration official.

He was followed by Ryan Tully, senior director for European and Russian affairs at the National Security Council, said a second senior official.

US Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund also announced he would resign this month after he faced criticism for failing to prevent supporters of Trump from storming the building.

Sund's resignation came hours after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Senator Chuck Schumer on Thursday demanded his resignation and said that he would be fired if he did not resign.

"It has been a pleasure and a true honour to serve the United States Capitol Police Board and the Congressional community alongside the men and women of the United States Capitol Police," Sund said in a letter to Capitol Police Board. Other members of the Board are also resigning from their positions.

"As discussed, I will transition into a sick leave status effective January 17, 2021, until I exhaust my available sick leave balance of approximately 440 hours," he said.

Mick Mulvaney, a former White House chief of staff, resigned as special envoy to Northern Ireland, telling CNBC: "I wouldn't be surprised to see more of my friends resign over the course of the next 24 to 48 hours."

John Costello, deputy assistant secretary at the Commerce Department, announced his departure in a blistering tweet, writing, "yesterday's events were an unprecedented attack on the very core of our democracy - incited by a sitting president."

Further departures were likely at the NSC, one of the officials said. It coordinates foreign policy and maintains contacts with other governments, so loss of key staff could raise questions about national security as the new administration takes over.

Sources told Reuters that the officials who stepped down on Thursday, in a growing exodus of Trump aides, were: Erin Walsh, senior director for African affairs; Mark Vandroff, senior director for defense policy; Anthony Rugierro, senior director for weapons of mass destruction; and Rob Greenway, senior director for Middle Eastern and North African affairs.

In an unprecedented assault on democracy in the US, thousands of supporters of outgoing President Trump stormed the Capitol building on Wednesday and clashed with police, interrupting a constitutional process by Congress to affirm the victory of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris in the election.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Trump -- for the first time -- openly acknowledged&nbsp;that Joe Biden will be the next president.

Trump, who as recently as Thursday morning had continued to claim falsely that the election had been stolen from him, said his focus would now turn to ensuring a smooth transition to a Biden administration in a video released in the evening.&nbsp;

His exhortation on Wednesday to thousands of supporters that they march to the Capitol to protest the election results whipped up a mob that overran police officers and invaded the Capitol building, forcing members of Congress into hiding for their own safety.

To this end, the threat of a second impeachment loomed over Trump.

The 25th Amendment allows a majority of the Cabinet to remove a president from power if he is unable to discharge the duties of the office.

(with inputs from agencies)

US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos resigned on Thursday, joining a list of officials quitting President Donald Trump's administration in protest at the storming of the Capitol by his supporters.

US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos resigned on Thursday, joining a list of officials quitting President Donald Trump's administration in protest at the storming of the Capitol by his supporters. Chao, the wife of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, said in an email to staff that the mob attack "has deeply troubled me in a way that I simply cannot set aside." She said her resignation will take effect on Monday. In a letter to Trump, DeVos said the attack on the Capitol was unconscionable. "There is no mistaking the impact your rhetoric had on the situation, and it is the inflection point for me," she wrote, adding her resignation would be effective Friday. With less than two weeks left of Trump's presidency, many aides were already heading for the door, but the sudden exodus suggested revulsion among some over his encouragement of supporters who brought chaos to the Capitol on Wednesday in an ultimately futile bid to prevent formal certification of Democrat Joe Biden's election victory. Deputy national security advisor Matt Pottinger, a leading aide on Trump's China policy, quit abruptly on Wednesday, said a senior administration official. He was followed by Ryan Tully, senior director for European and Russian affairs at the National Security Council, said a second senior official. US Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund also announced he would resign this month after he faced criticism for failing to prevent supporters of Trump from storming the building. Sund's resignation came hours after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Senator Chuck Schumer on Thursday demanded his resignation and said that he would be fired if he did not resign. "It has been a pleasure and a true honour to serve the United States Capitol Police Board and the Congressional community alongside the men and women of the United States Capitol Police," Sund said in a letter to Capitol Police Board. Other members of the Board are also resigning from their positions. "As discussed, I will transition into a sick leave status effective January 17, 2021, until I exhaust my available sick leave balance of approximately 440 hours," he said. Mick Mulvaney, a former White House chief of staff, resigned as special envoy to Northern Ireland, telling CNBC: "I wouldn't be surprised to see more of my friends resign over the course of the next 24 to 48 hours." John Costello, deputy assistant secretary at the Commerce Department, announced his departure in a blistering tweet, writing, "yesterday's events were an unprecedented attack on the very core of our democracy - incited by a sitting president." Further departures were likely at the NSC, one of the officials said. It coordinates foreign policy and maintains contacts with other governments, so loss of key staff could raise questions about national security as the new administration takes over. Sources told Reuters that the officials who stepped down on Thursday, in a growing exodus of Trump aides, were: Erin Walsh, senior director for African affairs; Mark Vandroff, senior director for defense policy; Anthony Rugierro, senior director for weapons of mass destruction; and Rob Greenway, senior director for Middle Eastern and North African affairs. In an unprecedented assault on democracy in the US, thousands of supporters of outgoing President Trump stormed the Capitol building on Wednesday and clashed with police, interrupting a constitutional process by Congress to affirm the victory of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris in the election. Meanwhile, Trump -- for the first time -- openly acknowledged that Joe Biden will be the next president. Trump, who as recently as Thursday morning had continued to claim falsely that the election had been stolen from him, said his focus would now turn to ensuring a smooth transition to a Biden administration in a video released in the evening. His exhortation on Wednesday to thousands of supporters that they march to the Capitol to protest the election results whipped up a mob that overran police officers and invaded the Capitol building, forcing members of Congress into hiding for their own safety. To this end, the threat of a second impeachment loomed over Trump. The 25th Amendment allows a majority of the Cabinet to remove a president from power if he is unable to discharge the duties of the office. (with inputs from agencies)

US transport, education secretaries, Capitol Police chief resign over violence

Hours after a mob stormed the Capitol building in Washington, a user on Twitter made a rather interesting observation about an episode of 'The Simpson' that seemed eerily similar to Wednesday's episode.&nbsp; 
 
Pro-Trump supporters stormed inside the Capitol building as a sign pf protest against the US election results.&nbsp; 
 
A few months earlier, an episode of The Simpsons seemed to have shown events panning out in a similar fashion.&nbsp;

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The Simpsons predicting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/civilwar2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#civilwar2021</a> and riots in America They’ve done it again <a href="https://t.co/gkoN49Gz3C">pic.twitter.com/gkoN49Gz3C</a>
— Sakib (@SakibArain) <a href="https://twitter.com/SakibArain/status/1346917662522269698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Episode 4 of season 32 of 'The Simpsons' predicted civil war, violent protests, and Trump supporters destroying America. Here, have a look at the clip.&nbsp;

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S32, E4, released only a few months ago: <a href="https://t.co/aCtllFcvJM">https://t.co/aCtllFcvJM</a>
— Nicholas Moreau (@nickmoreau) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmoreau/status/1346933812375265282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The uncanny similarities to the episode and Wednesday's episode shocked many. Here is how everyone reacted.&nbsp;

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True genius
— George’s Ghost (@Payinattention4) <a href="https://twitter.com/Payinattention4/status/1346965515818950661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You don’t need to be The Simpsons to have predicted this.
— Dicken Schrader (@DickenSchrader) <a href="https://twitter.com/DickenSchrader/status/1346938870785581057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/msFyU5gmC6">pic.twitter.com/msFyU5gmC6</a>
— Katieee (@katielilyc) <a href="https://twitter.com/katielilyc/status/1346949353080909824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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See there are somethings that we don't need to speak into existence... this is one of them. 😅😟😐
— ✨𝕲𝖆𝖗𝖓𝖊𝖙𝕱𝖎𝖗𝖊✨ (@garnetf1re) <a href="https://twitter.com/garnetf1re/status/1347034579039887360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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2021 was doomed when this episode aired
— Hayden Edwards (@Eddie_IDK97) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eddie_IDK97/status/1346953172040912896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It’s like the Simpsons were the gaslighting Nostradamus for the US.
— Bridget (@bth77police) <a href="https://twitter.com/bth77police/status/1346949149623803911?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This isn't the first time that 'The Simpsons' has been in news for predicting things that have rocked the world. They had, back in 2000, predicted Donald Trump taking over America as the President among other things.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-the-simpsons-forecast-us-capitol-riots-more-predictions-inside-278321#us-capitol-hill-riots-355309">Also see: 11 times 'The Simpsons' predicted the future&nbsp;</a>

Hours after a mob stormed the Capitol building in Washington, a user on Twitter made a rather interesting observation about an episode of 'The Simpson' that seemed eerily similar to Wednesday's episode.

Hours after a mob stormed the Capitol building in Washington, a user on Twitter made a rather interesting observation about an episode of 'The Simpson' that seemed eerily similar to Wednesday's episode. Pro-Trump supporters stormed inside the Capitol building as a sign pf protest against the US election results. A few months earlier, an episode of The Simpsons seemed to have shown events panning out in a similar fashion. The Simpsons predicting #civilwar2021 and riots in America They’ve done it again pic.twitter.com/gkoN49Gz3C — Sakib (@SakibArain) January 6, 2021 × Episode 4 of season 32 of 'The Simpsons' predicted civil war, violent protests, and Trump supporters destroying America. Here, have a look at the clip. S32, E4, released only a few months ago: https://t.co/aCtllFcvJM — Nicholas Moreau (@nickmoreau) January 6, 2021 × The uncanny similarities to the episode and Wednesday's episode shocked many. Here is how everyone reacted. True genius — George’s Ghost (@Payinattention4) January 6, 2021 × You don’t need to be The Simpsons to have predicted this. — Dicken Schrader (@DickenSchrader) January 6, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/msFyU5gmC6 — Katieee (@katielilyc) January 6, 2021 × See there are somethings that we don't need to speak into existence... this is one of them. 😅😟😐 — ✨𝕲𝖆𝖗𝖓𝖊𝖙𝕱𝖎𝖗𝖊✨ (@garnetf1re) January 7, 2021 × 2021 was doomed when this episode aired — Hayden Edwards (@Eddie_IDK97) January 6, 2021 × It’s like the Simpsons were the gaslighting Nostradamus for the US. — Bridget (@bth77police) January 6, 2021 × This isn't the first time that 'The Simpsons' has been in news for predicting things that have rocked the world. They had, back in 2000, predicted Donald Trump taking over America as the President among other things. Also see: 11 times 'The Simpsons' predicted the future

Did 'The Simpsons' predict the US Capitol Hill riots? The Internet seems to think so