Full Breakdown
The Tense Final Call: Trump and Pence on January 6
10/26/2025, 8:04:16 PM
Key Details from the Call
On January 6, 2021, just hours before the Capitol riot, then-President Donald Trump called Vice President Mike Pence, pressuring him to block the certification of Joe Biden's election victory. According to unpublished notes from Pence, detailed in Jonathan Karl's upcoming book "Retribution," Trump berated Pence, stating, "You'll go down as a wimp" if he proceeded with the certification. This call was part of a broader effort by Trump to persuade Pence to take unconstitutional actions to overturn the election results.
Pence's notes reveal that he firmly responded to Trump, emphasizing their oath to uphold the Constitution. He stated, "It doesn’t take courage to break the law. It takes courage to uphold the law." This exchange occurred shortly before Trump addressed a rally at the Ellipse, where he directed supporters to march to the Capitol.
Context of the Events
The call was the culmination of weeks of pressure from Trump and his allies, who sought to manipulate the electoral certification process. Special Counsel Jack Smith's investigation had gathered substantial evidence, including Pence's notes, which were intended to be used in a potential trial against Trump. Smith's final report indicated that Trump used false claims of election fraud as a weapon against the democratic process.
Official Statements & Responses
In his report to Attorney General Merrick Garland, Smith asserted that the evidence collected would have been sufficient to convict Trump had he not been re-elected in 2024. He noted, "The Department's view that the Constitution prohibits the continued indictment and prosecution of a President is categorical." This statement underscores the legal complexities surrounding Trump's actions and the implications of his re-election on ongoing investigations.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Trump argue that his actions on January 6 represent a significant threat to democratic norms. The House Select Committee's findings highlighted the dangers posed by Trump's attempts to overturn the election results. Pence's refusal to comply with Trump's demands has been viewed as a critical stand for constitutional integrity, contrasting sharply with Trump's alleged attempts to undermine the electoral process.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Pence's notes provide a detailed account of the call, there are discrepancies regarding the broader context of Trump's intentions. Some sources suggest that Trump was aware of the potential for violence at the Capitol, while others focus on his claims of election fraud. The Supreme Court's ruling on presidential immunity in July 2024 further complicates the legal landscape, potentially limiting the use of evidence against Trump.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You’ll go down as a wimp.” — Donald Trump, during the call with Mike Pence.
- “It doesn't take courage to break the law. It takes courage to uphold the law.” — Mike Pence, in response to Trump.
- “The throughline of all of Mr. Trump's criminal efforts was deceit,” — Jack Smith, in his final report.
This tense interaction between Trump and Pence encapsulates the critical moments leading up to the January 6 Capitol riot, highlighting the pressures exerted on Pence and the broader implications for American democracy.
