A  large group of supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the capitol early Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 6, in an attempt to show their dissatisfaction with the recent election. As Congress convened to certify the electoral college votes, its meeting was interrupted by the protestors storming into the building,  breaking windows and pushing past police force members.

As Trump continued to dispute the election results, he told supporters gathered at The Ellipse near the White House on Jan. 6, “be strong” and “fight.” Later, his supporters showed up to the Capitol, displaying U.S., Trump and Confederate flags, shouting “Stop the steal.” Prosper ISD students shared their opinions on the event.

“I think its reckless and absurd that people are defending the Pro-Trump supporters’ actions,” Rock Hill sophomore Nicole Elaine said.

After being urged by fellow politicians, the president released a series of tweets asking his supporters “to remain peaceful … respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue.”

“While the protests before the breach were formal and peaceful, there’s no reason to breach the capitol,” junior Caleb Audia said. “This made moderate conservatives, like me, look very destructive and idiotic.”

A woman, later identified as an Air Force veteran, was shot by a Capitol Police officer during the siege. She died at an area hospital. In the end, a total of four people suffered from medical emergencies and later died.

“I, in no way, support what happened,” Audia said. “People who trespassed and went inside should be charged accordingly.”

Trump advertised for this protest earlier in the week. He called on his supporters to join him in a “Save America March.” He promised “big crowds.”

D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee III said the police force made a total of 52 arrests, with 26 of those occurring on Capitol grounds. The police also reported that officers recovered two pipe bombs at the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee offices.

“I think, personally, it was a terrorist attack,” said Rock Hill sophomore Kelsey Reid. “It was ridiculous, scary and serious.”

All four living, past-serving presidents — Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter — condemned the acts of violence at the Capitol.

“This is how election results are disputed in a banana republic — not our democratic republic,” Bush said in an official statement. “I am appalled by the reckless behavior of some political leaders since the election.”

President Trump formally conceded the “U.S. 2020 Presidential Race” on Jan. 7 amongst backlash to his response of the Capitol breaching, previously discussed. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi calls for President Trump to resign immediately, threatening action against him with the support of the 25th constitutional amendment.

“Congress has certified the results and a new administration will be inaugurated on Jan. 20 as my focus turns to ensure a smooth, orderly and seamless transition of power. This moment calls for healing and reconciliation,” Trump said in his latest message to supporters. “Defeating this pandemic and restoring the economy will require all of us. Our incredible journey is just beginning.”

The FBI is asking anyone who witnessed unlawful violent actions to submit information, photos or videos to fbi.gov/USCapitol. Tipsters may also call 1-800-CALL-FBI. Anyone with information but no digital media to submit may also contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov.

“I believe the Capitol breach was incredibly dangerous, embarrassing and hypocritical,” sophomore Henry Tolbert said. “The police and civilians were bullied and attacked along with many scared government officials. This was a very catastrophic mess. I hope our nation can heal over the next four years.”

This story was originally published on Eagle Nation Online on January 7, 2021.