Capitol Police Rejected Offers of Federal Help Before and During Capitol Breach

The U.S. Capitol Police reportedly rejected federal help in the days leading up to the planned Capitol protests on Jan. 6, and again as the Capitol building was breached Wednesday. The Associated Press reported that the Capitol police added more personnel but were prepared only for a free speech demonstration, despite the Pentagon's offer of National Guard assistance on Jan. 3, and the Justice Department's offer of FBI agents, which were rejected by Capitol police. Five people died as a result of Wednesday's events. U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund, Sergeant at Arms of the Senate Michael Stenger and Sergeant at Arms of the House Paul Irving all resigned after pressure from lawmakers. The story received coverage from across the political spectrum. Right-rated outlets tended to highlight the officials who resigned after pressure from lawmakers; some voices from the left criticized Capitol police for not being prepared despite adequate time.