Story perspectives

FBI's 2020 Warnings Ignored Before January 6 Capitol Riot

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted a summer 2020 tabletop exercise to assess potential violence around a contested presidential election, revealing concerns about domestic violent extremists.
Memos obtained by Congress indicate the FBI anticipated threats from both left-leaning and right-leaning groups.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk criticized the FBI for failing to adequately prepare for the January 6 Capitol riot, despite intelligence suggesting an attack was possible.
Following the riot, the FBI increased surveillance and prosecutions, which were later used to justify expanded federal law enforcement actions against groups including traditional Catholics and concerned parents.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted a summer 2020 tabletop exercise to assess potential violence around a contested presidential election, revealing concerns about domestic violent extremists.
Memos obtained by Congress indicate the FBI anticipated threats from both left-leaning and right-leaning groups.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk criticized the FBI for failing to adequately prepare for the January 6 Capitol riot, despite intelligence suggesting an attack was possible.
Following the riot, the FBI increased surveillance and prosecutions, which were later used to justify expanded federal law enforcement actions against groups including traditional Catholics and concerned parents.