The Jan 6 Capitol Mob and Trump’s Potential Reaction
On January 6, 2021, a significant moment in American history unfolded when a mob stormed the Capitol building. Considering the circumstances, how would former President Donald Trump have reacted if the mob had reached Vice President Mike Pence and inflicted severe harm? This article examines potential scenarios and implications.
Protection and Action of Pence and His Secret Service
The key would have been the protection and safety of Vice President Mike Pence, who was present during the Capitol riots. Under normal circumstances, an unarmed group of protesters would not have survived an encounter with Pence's personal Secret Service. Their job is to ensure his safety, and they would have acted accordingly.
Had Pence been in any actual danger, the Secret Service would have evacuated him before anyone could closely approach him. Trump was not at the Capitol on that day for a fundraiser and likely would have wanted to leave if faced with imminent danger.
Trump’s Response and Psychopathic Traits
Donald Trump’s response would likely have been a mix of hyperventilation and self-centeredness. He might have jumped up and down shouting, "Yippie, yippie," while declaring martial law and himself as "President-For-Life" with the support of 'real patriots.' This statement reflects his lack of loyalty to his underlings and his belief that Pence betrayed him by not helping him steal the election.
The underlying fact is that Trump is a psychopath, lacking empathy, sympathy, and regrets. He has repeatedly referred to Pence as a traitor and believed he deserved the indignity of being part of the mob attack.
Trump’s narcissism would mean he wouldn’t have cared what happened to anyone as long as something positive happened for himself. His primary focus would have been on his reputation and well-being, not the lives of others.
Strategic and Violent Measures
Based on his unpredictability and historical behavior, Trump would have taken strategic and even violent measures. If the 'TRUMP_MOB' ever got close to Vice President Pence, every bullet from his Secret Service detail would result in a dead Trump supporter. The Capitol police would have received 'shoot to kill' orders as well.
This would have led to the greatest massacre in modern American history. Trump’s actions would have been a direct result of his belief in maintaining power and his disdain for the democratic process.
Reagan and the National Response
As a Reaganist, I must say that Ronald Reagan would not have reacted in the same way. Reagan possessed empathy and did not live to serve his own interests above all. Yet, the comparison highlights the stark differences in leadership and the potential consequences.
In the aftermath of the January 6 incident, Trump should be remembered as a figure who poisoned some of his supporters into acting violently. The free press, often chasing ratings, played a role in fueling the situation. Trump’s warning about a ‘stolen’ election in 2016 and his continued assertion in 2020 created the necessary conditions for the January 6 attack.
The events of January 6, 2021, were a wake-up call. The mob attack should be considered a national holiday, a day to reflect on the importance of truth-seeking by the media and the consequences of sustained misinformation.
Consequences and Lessons
While the January 6 attack might have seemed like a 'frat party' in some ways, there were also well-organized groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers who planned and prepared their actions in advance. The smirk on Trump’s face during the insurrection demonstrated his lack of remorse and detachment from reality.
Political leaders today and in the future should learn from this event. We must not allow a cult of personality to overshadow the rule of law. The impeachment of Trump and his continued influence through legal means are a testament to the importance of constitutional checks and balances.
Looking ahead to the elections of 2022 and 2024, we must remain vigilant. We cannot allow the undermining of democracy by those who seek power at all costs. Passive acceptance of a 'cult of personality' leads to erosion of trust in our institutions.
Best to be aware and ready to counteract any attempts to manipulate or misconstrue the democratic process. Always remember that maintaining the rule of law is the foundation of a functioning and healthy society.