Hartzer: After violence, I considered withdrawing objection, but need for election integrity had not changed

(By Fourth District Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler)

This week was one for the history books depicting both the best of America and the worst of America. The worst was depicted by a deplorable attack on Capitol Hill this past Wednesday - not by outside enemies but by some of our own citizens. The best is shown by the heroism of Capitol Police, law enforcement, and our National Guard who put their own lives at risk to save ours.

After several hours the mob was finally cleared from the Capitol, the perimeter was secured, an initial clean up done, and we continued on our Constitutional duties. 

The disgusting behavior we saw is not representative of what we stand for as a nation. This is thuggery; it is disgusting; and violators must be punished to the fullest extent allowed under federal law.

Election Certification Vote

When order was restored, as representatives of the people, Congress still needed to finish evaluating state electors to determine if they were fairly seated according to the Constitution and, if so, to certify the votes for President and Vice President. We had begun this process earlier in the day but had been interrupted by the protestors.

I considered withdrawing my objections, but determined, despite the traumatic events of the day and controversial statements by the president, the need to ensure election integrity had not changed, and the concerns regarding unconstitutional actions by state officials contrary to state law had not been washed away because protestors, many of whom supported President Trump, stormed the Capitol. 

Therefore, I objected to the certification of electors chosen from states that blatantly violated their own election laws in the hope action will be taken to stop these illegal actions and every voter in the future, no matter their political party or which candidate they are supporting, will have confidence in their vote.

Congress Certifies President-elect Biden’s Election

In the end Congress fulfilled our hallowed duty. We received the state elector vote certificates, thoroughly debated objections to some state's electors, and voted.

Ultimately, Joe Biden was certified as President-elect. I accept this reality and commit to working with him, Vice President-elect Harris, and my colleagues to move America forward. I welcome the President-elect's pledge to work for all Americans and will hold him to I that pledge

There is much opportunity to find common ground and Americans are facing many challenges that need to be addressed. They deserve representatives who work together towards finding solutions. That is what I will do - not compromising principles or supporting harmful proposals but finding areas of common ground while advocating for the solutions and values held dear by the people of Missouri’s 4th District.