Commemorating the January 6 Insurrection: Late-Night Hosts Reflect

On January 6, 2026, the fifth anniversary of the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol was marked by late-night television hosts who recounted the events of that day and criticized the ongoing attempts by former President Donald Trump and his supporters to reshape the narrative surrounding it. The insurrection, characterized by a violent mob attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, has become a focal point for discussions about democracy and accountability in the United States.

Mediaite

Jimmy Kimmel opened his monologue by emphasizing the significance of the date, stating, “Five years ago today, after losing what eventually judges from both sides in cities all around the country unanimously declared to be a free and fair election, Donald Trump tried to overthrow our government.” He described the insurrection as a “selfish, disgraceful, tyrannical, and dangerous act,” urging viewers not to forget the facts of that day amidst what he termed “revisionist history” being propagated by Trump and his allies. Kimmel also highlighted the White House's recent claims that Democrats staged the real insurrection, calling it an absurd narrative.

The Guardian

Stephen Colbert added humor to the somber occasion, joking that January 6 is a “dark day in our nation’s history, and a permanent stain on the legacy of Donald Trump.” He noted Trump’s attempts to downplay the insurrection, referring to it as a “day of love.” Colbert also touched on the absurdity of Trump’s claims regarding Venezuela, linking it back to the broader narrative of his presidency.

The Guardian

Seth Meyers pointed out the absurdity of Trump’s recent statements, including his suggestion that he might cancel future elections due to fears of impeachment. He remarked, “Well, if you cancel the elections, it won’t be fake news,” highlighting the contradictions in Trump’s rhetoric.

NewsOne

The late-night hosts collectively criticized Trump’s ongoing efforts to rewrite the events of January 6. Kimmel specifically called out the disappearance of a plaque honoring law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol, which Speaker Mike Johnson refused to display. This act was seen as emblematic of the broader denial and revisionism surrounding the insurrection.

Rolling Stone

Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, condemned Trump’s launch of a propaganda website on the anniversary, which she described as “insane and offensive.” She criticized the site for presenting a fabricated account of the events and for blaming Democrats for the violence that occurred.

Mediaite

While late-night hosts uniformly condemned Trump’s actions and rhetoric, there remains a divide in public opinion regarding the insurrection. A recent poll indicated that 44% of Republicans would support amending the Constitution to allow Trump to seek a third term, reflecting a significant faction that continues to support him despite the events of January 6.

NewsOne

• “Five years ago, we saw proof live in front of our eyes that the American president is as un-American as they come.” — Jimmy Kimmel

The Guardian

• “You can’t wash that out! Also, the failed coup.” — Stephen Colbert

The Guardian

• “Well, if you cancel the elections, it won’t be fake news,” — Seth Meyers

The Guardian

• “Capitol, the worst attack on our nation’s capital in more than 200 years.” — Jen Psaki

Mediaite

As the anniversary of the January 6 insurrection passes, the reflections from late-night hosts serve as a reminder of the ongoing debates surrounding accountability, democracy, and the narratives that shape American history.

Rolling Stone