The Republican Party’s rewriting of the January 6 attack on the US Capitol has provided a key part of the foundation for former President Trump’s return to public life and influence. The party’s rewriting of the event has centered around excuses, minimizing responsibilities, and shifting blame to others. This has allowed Trump to remain active in public discourse and shape the Republican Party’s positions in the years ahead.
The GOP has sought to frame the attack by emphasizing the theme of “peaceful protest” during the riot, suggesting it was largely a nonviolent uprising among people with good intentions. Trump’s legal team has argued that the attack was a result of leftists infiltrating the mostly peaceful protest. Some Republicans have argued that the attack was not caused by Trump, claiming that the media has failed to mention his repeated calls for a peaceful rally.
The GOP has also sought to shift blame onto other entities, including the Democratic Party, “Antifa,” and local governments. Democrats have vehemently denied any involvement and there is no confirmed link between any of these entities and the attack.
The Party has also downplayed the role of its members. Rather than condemn the actions of its members who participated in the attack, the GOP has instead used it an opportunity to criticize their opponents. While there have been some Republican members who have denounced the attack, others have instead sought to use it as a tool to score political points.
Overall, the GOP’s rewriting of the January 6 attack has shielded Trump from significant criticism and provided a pathway for him to continue to hold sway over the party. This rewriting has allowed the former president to come out largely unscathed and gain support and prestige among the Republican base.