Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) reaffirmed his decision to certify the 2020 election results during an appearance on ABC’s This Week, despite former President Donald Trump’s false claims of election fraud. Scott, who is reportedly considered for Trump’s vice presidential running mate, addressed Trump’s recent remarks regarding January 6 defendants and the Capitol riot.
When asked by host Jonathan Karl about Trump’s characterization of the January 6 rioters as “warriors” and “victims” protesting a rigged election, Scott firmly stated that anyone who attacks law enforcement officers should face consequences, referencing the assaults on Capitol police officers during the riot. He acknowledged that nonviolent protestors who peacefully demonstrated have been treated too harshly.
Scott then pivoted to criticize President Joe Biden, labeling him as the “greatest threat to democracy today.” Karl followed up by questioning Scott’s stance on certifying Biden’s election victory, which Scott affirmed unequivocally, emphasizing his commitment to standing by his decision to certify Biden as president.
The conversation shifted to Trump’s actions towards then-Vice President Mike Pence on January 6, when Trump urged Pence to reject certifying the election results. Scott reiterated his support for Pence’s adherence to the Constitution, stating that Pence did the right thing by upholding his constitutional duties despite Trump’s pressure.
“Those J6 warriors, they were warriors,” Trump said. “But they were really, more than anything else, they’re victims of what happened. All they were doing is protesting a rigged election.”
The clip ended and Karl asked Scott, “Do you agree with that?”
“Anyone who attacks an officer – whether on the Capitol grounds or anyplace else in the country – should serve time,” the senator replied, referring to the 140 or so police officers who were assaulted on Jan. 6. Scott then pivoted by saying that the “nonviolent folks who sat outside who actually simply protested” have been treated too harshly.
He went on to deem Biden “the greatest threat to democracy today.”
“Ok, Senator,” Karl said. “The day before that violent mob attacked, you put out a statement explaining your decision to certify Joe Biden’s election victory. Do you stand by that?”
“Certainly,” Scott responded. “I will stand by that decision and the next decision to certify the fact that Donald Trump will be the next president of the United States. November 5th, day of reckoning is coming.”
