Former U.S. Presidents Strongly Criticize Trump Over 'Capitol Violence'... "National Shame"

Obama "Incumbent President Encourages... History Will Remember"
Bush and Clinton Also Express Concern in Statements

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Former U.S. presidents strongly criticized President Donald Trump, accusing him of inciting the violent incident that occurred on the 6th (local time) at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

According to CNN and other outlets, former President Barack Obama issued a statement after Trump supporters violently occupied the Capitol, saying, "History will clearly remember today's violence incited by the sitting president (Trump), who baselessly claimed that the legitimate election results were false," adding, "This is a tremendous disgrace and shameful moment for our country (the United States)."

Former President Obama expressed that he drew courage from Republicans who have carried out their duties despite various threats and urged the Republican Party to "face reality and take the first step to put out the fire."

Former President George W. Bush, a Republican, also condemned the incident, saying, "The reckless actions of some political leaders following the election are chilling," and "They showed no respect for the American system, traditions, and the rule of law." Bush criticized the violent protesters who occupied the Capitol, stating, "Such things happen when election results are handled in a banana republic, not in our democratic republic," calling the incident "tiring and regrettable."

President Bush emphasized, "This insurrection could cause tremendous damage to this nation and its reputation," and stressed, "Those elected by the election must carry out their duties and represent our voices in peace and safety."

Former President Bill Clinton also stated, "Today, we faced an unprecedented attack on the U.S. Congress, the Constitution, and the entire nation," pointing out, "Four years of toxic politics and deliberate misinformation fueled the occupation of the Capitol." He further criticized, "Today's violence was ignited by Donald Trump, his fervent supporters, and many in Congress who sought to overturn the election results that ended in defeat."