Melania Trump is speaking out on the D.C. riots that occurred in support of her husband’s re-election. On Monday (Jan. 11), the first lady released a statement via WhiteHouse.gov that addressed Wednesday’s (Jan. 6) insurrection among other things, including “unwarranted personal attacks” that have been made against her.
“I am disappointed and disheartened with what happened last week,” she said. “I find it shameful that surrounding these tragic events there has been salacious gossip, unwarranted personal attacks, and false misleading accusations on me – from people who are looking to be relevant and have an agenda. This time is solely about healing our country and its citizens. It should not be used for personal gain.”
The chaos at Capitol Hill occurred after her husband’s planned protest to contest Joe Biden’s presidential certification. Various posts of the insurrection show rioters ravaging House and Senate offices in the U.S. Capitol and clashing with law enforcement in an effort to demand a recount.
Trump admitted it was “inspiring to see that so many have found a passion and enthusiasm in participating in an election,” but warned the rioters against turning those feelings to violence.
Unfortunately, six deaths were already reported in connection to the anarchy at the U.S. Capitol. In her statement, FLOTUS acknowledged the lost lives while criticizing the rioters for their actions.
“Our nation must heal in a civil manner. Make no mistake about it, I absolutely condemn the violence that has occurred on our nation’s Capitol,” she said. “Violence is never acceptable.”
“I implore people to stop the violence, never make assumptions based on the color of a person’s skin or use differing political ideologies as a basis for aggression and viciousness,” Trump added. “We must listen to one another, focus on what unites us and rise above what divides us.”