Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has reignited debate over the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, claiming she and other congressional leaders “begged” President Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard as the attack unfolded. Speaking to reporters on June 10, 2025, Pelosi contrasted Trump’s refusal to act with his recent deployment of troops to Los Angeles, calling it “contra-constitutional.” Her remarks, supported by then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s similar requests, challenge Trump’s narrative that he offered 10,000 troops, which he claims Pelosi rejected.
However, multiple fact-checks, including by The Dispatch and AP News, confirm the Speaker does not control the National Guard, which is activated by the president or D.C. authorities. No evidence supports Trump’s claim of a formal offer, and former Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller testified in 2022 that no such order was issued. Video footage from Pelosi’s daughter, Alexandra, shows Pelosi questioning why the Guard wasn’t pre-deployed, stating, “I take responsibility for not having them just prepare for more.” Critics argue this was misconstrued by some as an admission of fault.
Republicans, including the House Administration Committee, seize on the footage to argue Pelosi shirked security responsibilities, while Democrats assert she was a target of the riot and actively sought military aid. The controversy fuels ongoing partisan battles, with Trump’s supporters claiming vindication and opponents accusing him of evading accountability for inciting the mob. As investigations continue, the conflicting narratives highlight unresolved questions about January 6 security failures.
