In her remarks, Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) said:
The violence was evident to all – it was covered in real time by almost every news channel. But, for 187 minutes, President Trump refused to act when action by our President was required, indeed essential, and compelled by his oath to our Constitution. Mr. Meadows received numerous text messages, which he has produced without any privilege claim – imploring that Mr. Trump take the specific action we all knew his duty required.
-"Hey, Mark, protestors are literally storming the Capitol. Breaking windows on doors. Rushing in. Is Trump going to say something?"
-"We are under siege up here at the Capitol."
-"They have breached the Capitol."
-"There's an armed standoff at the House Chamber door."
-"We are all helpless."
Dozens of texts, including from Trump administration officials, urged immediate action by the President:
-"POTUS has to come out firmly and tell protestors to dissipate. Someone is going to get killed"
-"Mark, he needs to stop this. Now"
-"TELL THEM TO GO HOME"
-"POTUS needs to calm this s*** down."
Indeed, according to the records, multiple Fox News hosts knew the President needed to act immediately. They texted Meadows that:
-"Hey Mark, the president needs to tell people in the Capitol to go home...this is hurting all of us...he is destroying his legacy." Laura Ingraham wrote.
-"Please get him on tv. Destroying everything you have accomplished." Brian Kilmeade wrote.
-"Can he make a statement?...Ask people to leave the Capitol." Sean Hannity urged.
As the violence continued, one of the President's sons texted Meadows:
"He's got to condemn this s*** Asap. The Capitol Police tweet is not enough." Donald Trump, Jr. texted.
Meadows responded: "I'm pushing it hard. I agree."
Still, President Trump did not immediately act.
Donald Trump, Jr. texted again and again, urging action by the President:
"We need an Oval address. He has to lead now. It has gone too far and gotten out of hand."
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