The Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) vehemently condemns the assault on the Rule of Law that the nation watched unfold at the U.S. Capitol yesterday afternoon. The peaceful transfer of power to incoming presidential administrations and the processes that facilitate that transfer are a fundamental foundation of our democracy and have been faithfully observed and respected since the inception of the nation. The storming of the U.S. Capitol by rioters seeking to use violence to disrupt the certification of the presidential election was not only a repugnant act, but criminal activity that should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The ISBA calls on all elected officials across our great country to swiftly and forcefully join in the condemnation of these actions that threaten American values.

“The ISBA has steadfastly defended and supported the Rule of Law since the Association’s formation,” said ISBA President Dennis J. Orsey. “While yesterday’s events were an unprecedented assault on the core principles of our democracy, we must not lose sight of the fact that the Rule of Law ultimately prevailed. As the rioting was quelled and order at the Capitol restored, our Congress returned to its chambers and fulfilled its constitutional duty to certify the results of our presidential election. I personally join in the ISBA’s call for all elected officials to strongly condemn yesterday’s abhorrent events and move forward to help our nation heal in the civil manner demanded by our great democracy.”