Peaceful transition is tenet of democracy in the U.S.
Like many of you, I am completely devastated by the events of January 6, 2021.
I unequivocally condemn all acts of violence. The sickening mob who descended on the U.S. Capitol to carry out vandalism and violence are responsible for the deaths of at least two American citizens, including one U.S. Capitol police officer. Every perpetrator of violence and destruction during Wednesday’s attack must be charged to the fullest extent of the law.
While I completely condemn the radical rioters, as I have done throughout 2020 in many major U.S. cities, I refuse to shame the millions of law-abiding Republicans who were in no way connected to or complicit in the riots.
The 11th District of Texas is home to decent, hard-working and God-fearing Americans who have genuine concerns about the future of their families, jobs, businesses, and our country under a Joe Biden Administration.
Wednesday’s riots interrupted the important work that my colleagues and I were gathered in the House Chamber to do—to publicly debate the Electoral College results and draw attention to the immediate need to shore up the integrity of our election system. For our democratic republic to function everyone must trust in it and right now millions of Americans are questioning it.
Thankfully, after the crowds dispersed and the Capitol complex was secured, Congress continued the job at hand in the manner prescribed by the Constitution.
The debate has been had, the votes have been taken, and now it is time to move forward. The peaceful transition of power is part of what makes our system of government the envy of the world, and it absolutely must be adhered to. For over 240 years, this central tenet of our Constitution has kept our country together, even during our darkest days. While many of us, including myself, are devastated by the results, it is imperative that a smooth transition occur.
I have already taken immediate action to secure our election system and make sure our great country does not find herself at such cross-roads ever again. One of the pieces of legislation I am supporting demands federal election integrity by addressing the processes of voter registration, ballot casting, and the counting of ballots. Our system must be the gold standard for elections.
Republicans have our work cut out for us over the next two years, as we face an onslaught of radical Democrat policies with Democrats in control of the House, Senate, and the White House.
I will continue to stand up for the values of the 11th District of Texas in Congress and make sure our voices are heard. This began earlier this week as I introduced my first bill to protect the oil and gas industry.
This nation is precious and the vast majority of people living in it are longing for healing and peace. We will not back down from voicing our opinions, but I urge everyone to do so according to our First Amendment rights.
I hope anyone reading this will join me in praying for our country. God bless these great United States.
August Pfluger (R-San Angelo), is the U.S. Representative for the 11th Congressional District of Texas, which includes Dawson County.