The Capitol Riot: A Chronology
/From the National Security Archive - for the best view click on the link or cut and paste it into your browser.
https://nsarchive.gwu.edu/news/foia/2022-01-06/capitol-riot-chronology?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=839afee8-9fbc-4738-9215-9c26ae14fe58
35+ YEARS OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTION
The Capitol Riot: A Chronology
(photo credit Alex Polyakov)
National Security Archive Timeline Pieces Together Events of January 6, 2021
Highlights Ongoing, Unresolved Discrepancies Between Official Testimony,
Media Reporting, and Pentagon's Sparse Timeline
Published: Jan 6, 2022
Edited by Claire Harvey and Lauren Harper
For more information, contact:
202-994-7000 or nsarchiv@gwu.edu
Subjects
Political Crimes and Abuse of Power
Terrorism and Counterterrorism
Regions
Project
Washington, D.C., January 6, 2022 - The National Security Archive marks the one-year anniversary of the assault on the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021, with a meticulously researched timeline of the day's events. The chronology, which will serve as an important tool for investigators, researchers, and the public, is divided into three main parts:
Events that took place at the Capitol that we know about thanks to stellar reporting from organizations like ProPublica, The New York Times, the AP, The Washington Post, NPR, Politico, and Newsweek, as well as information provided by a host of both local and federal officials in Congressional testimony;
Activity at the White House, drawn primarily from former President Trump's official statements on Twitter;
The Department of Defense's official timeline that was published on January 8, 2021.
The chronology below, taken together with our three previous sourcebooks, provides a high level of detail about the attempted coup while at the same time underscoring just how much about federal or local government decisions and actions remains unknown to the public. Each entry includes a source, with hyperlink, and a Who's Who of key figures is also provided. The Archive will update the timeline as important new information surfaces.
RELATED LINKS
The Capitol Riot: Documents You Should Read (Part 1)
Jan 13, 2021
The Capitol Riot: Documents You Should Read (Part 2)
Mar 3, 2021
The Capitol Riot: Documents You Should Read (Part 3)
May 4, 2021
Cyber Brief: Cyber and the Insurrection, One Year Later
Jan 6, 2022
JANUARY 6, 2021, RIOT TIMELINE
Keys to the Timeline
Minute-by-minute reporting of the Capitol attack comes primarily from open sources (much of it video footage and images captured by smartphones) obtained during investigations by major news outlets.
Rioters breached the Capitol Building from both the East and the West side of the building.
Events from the west side of the Capitol are color-coded green;
The east side breach is color-coded blue.
Who's Who (as of January 6, 2021)
Muriel Bowser - Mayor, District of Columbia
Robert J Contee III - Chief, Metropolitan Police Department (MPDC)
Kevin Donahue - City Administrator, District of Columbia
Robert Glover - Commander, Special Operations Division, Metropolitan Police Department (MPDC)
Donnell Harvin - Chief, Homeland Security and Intelligence, HSEMA
Paul Irving - House Sergeant at Arms
Ryan McCarthy - Secretary of the Army (SECARMY)
Chris Miller - Acting Secretary of Defense (A/SD)
Mark Milley - Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS)
Yogananda Pittman - Chief, U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), Sund's successor
Dr. Christopher Rodriguez - Director, D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA)
Michael Stenger - Senate Sergeant at Arms
Steven Sund - Chief, U.S. Capitol Police (USCP)
General William Walker - Commander, D.C. National Guard (DCNG)
Jump to January 5 events
Jump to January 6 events
Jump to January 7 events
Date
Time
Key Capitol Attack Events
White House Activity
Pentagon Timeline
10/17/2006
The FBI reports on the growing threat posed by white supremacists infiltrating all levels of law enforcement, and notes that one of the major worries about such infiltration is compromised intelligence.
(Source: House Oversight Committee)
4/2/2019
The Department of Homeland Security disbands a component of analysts under the Office of Intelligence and Analysis who focus on domestic terrorism.
(Source: The Daily Beast)
9/26/2020
Speaker Nancy Pelosi sends a letter to House Democrats anticipating a tie in the Electoral College requiring state delegations to vote, writing that, "The Constitution says that a candidate must receive a majority of the state delegations to win.” She continues, “We must achieve that majority of delegations or keep the Republicans from doing so.”
(Source: Politico)
At a campaign rally outside of Harrisburg, PA., President Donald Trump makes his comments on the congressional electoral process, stating in reference to the upcoming election: "And I don't want to end up in the Supreme Court and I don't want to go back to Congress either, even though we have an advantage if we go back to Congress — does everyone understand that?” He continues, "I think it’s 26 to 22 or something because it’s counted one vote per state, so we actually have an advantage. Oh, they're going to be thrilled to hear that.”
(Source: Politico)
10/1/2020
The DHS’s first Homeland Threat Assessment states that white supremacists are America’s biggest threat. Earlier drafts included harsher language, and explicitly singled out white supremacists, while later drafts avoided this and grouped white supremacists within the larger framework of "domestic violent extremists" (DVE). The final draft states “Among DVEs, racially and ethnically motivated violent extremists—specifically white supremacist extremists (WSEs)—will remain the most persistent and lethal threat in the Homeland.”
(Source: Department of Homeland Security)
11/7/2020
Three days after the November 3rd, 2020, presidential election, the AP announces Joe Biden as the winner. Votes are subsequently recounted in Georgia, and on November 19, 2020, following the recount, Joe Biden is affirmed as the winner of the election.
(Source: The Associated Press)
11/14/2020
Thousands of President Trump supporters rally in Washington, D.C., asserting that the election results are fraudulent. Violent clashes ensue between protesters, counter-protesters, and police.
(Source: NPR)
12/7/2020
#StopTheSteal emerges - Although the phrase is not unique to the 2020 election, an investigation found that on Twitter, far-right social media personality Jack Posobiec posted a now-deleted tweet, “#StopTheSteal 2020 is coming…”, on December 7, 2020. That same day far-right extremist Ali Alexander also announces he will build a website and database later to be used to mobilize Trump supporters.
(Source: Just Security)
On Facebook, Vice News reports a "Stop the Steal" group publishing disinformation regarding the 2020 election is quickly amassing hundreds of thousands of followers.
(Source: Vice News)
12/8/2020
The Congressional Research Service publishes, “Counting Electoral Votes: An Overview of Procedures at the Joint Session, Including Objections by Members of Congress".
(Source: Federation of American Scientists)
12/20/2020
The FBI receives a tip on the afternoon of December 20, 2020, alerting the agency that Trump's supporters are discussing how to illegally bring firearms to Washington, D.C., "overrun police" and "arrest" members of Congress, as later reported by the Washington Post.
(Source: The Washington Post)
12/21/2020
Following violent protests earlier in the month, D.C. Metropolitan Police Chief Robert Contee briefs Mayor Muriel Bowser on the potential for violent protests on January 6 and the Department begins developing a security plan.
(Source: The Washington Post)
12/29/2020
A "First Amendment Coordination Call" takes place between all agencies expected to interact with planned protesters.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
12/30/2021
The FBI, DHS, and National Counterterrorism Center issue a joint "Intelligence In Depth" report titled "Diverse DVE Landscape Probably Will Persist." No mention is made of Donald Trump, election disinformation, or the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
(Source: Newsweek)
12/31/2020
One week ahead of January 6, plans for security increase in both DC and on Capitol Hill. Representative Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) speaks with Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund regarding protests planned for 1/6
(Source: Washington Post)
Meanwhile, Proud Boys chairman Ethan Nordean, also known as Rufio Panman, posts on social media that the group will turn out in "record numbers" on January 6 and that they will not be wearing their trademark colors of black and yellow.
(Source: DOJ)
"Mayor Muriel Bowser and Dr. Christopher Rodriguez, D.C. Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, deliver a written request for D.C. National Guard (DCNG) support to D.C. Metro Police Department (MPD) and Fire and Emergency Service."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/1/2021
A "Public Gathering Permit" on the Ellipse to Women For America First is granted for Wednesday, January 6, 2021, with 5,000 as an anticipated number of participants, according to a timeline published by the House Homeland Security Committee.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/1/2021
Commander of the D.C. National Guard, General William Walker, sends a letter to Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy requesting approval for the Mayor Bowser's request to the Army for DCNG assistance to the MPDC on January 6. This is omitted from the Pentagon timeline.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/2/2021
Immediately following a scheduled leadership transition at the DC Metropolitan Police, Mayor Bowser has a briefing with new acting Police Chief Contee regarding January 6
(Source: The Washington Post)
Contee also speaks with Chief of Capitol Police Steven Sund.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
"The Acting Secretary of Defense (A/SD) confers with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) and the Secretary of the Army (SECARMY) on the Mayor’s written request."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/3/2021
DC Mayor Bowser announces a city-wide plan to deal with the expected protests on 1/6, including closing large portions of downtown DC to vehicles, and posting signs that guns cannot be carried into the District. According to testimony by Sund's successor Capitol Police Chief Pittman, an Inter-Agency Coordination Division (IICD) Intelligence memo stated that militia members, white supremacists, and other extremists groups would be participating in the event
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
But in Sund's testimony he indicated that overall the January 6 protests were expected to be similar to previous protests disputing the election results in November and December.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
"DoD confirms with U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) that there is no request for DoD support."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/3/2021
Meeting in Quantico, Virginia, between the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team, the FBI's national "Render Safe" team, the FBI SWAT team from the Baltimore Field Office, Special Response Teams from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Marshals Service Special Operations Group to review potential threats to the January 6 Joint Session of Congress.
(Source: Newsweek)
1/3/2021
According to the Pentagon Timeline, the President meets with the Acting Secretary of Defense Miller and the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff Milley.
"A/SD and CJCS meet with the President. President concurs in activation of the DCNG to support law enforcement."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/3/2021
"A/SD meets with select Cabinet Members to discuss DoD support to law enforcement agencies and potential requirements for DoD support."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/3/2021
In addition to the details in the public Pentagon timeline, later reporting states that on January 3rd "Trump approved the activation of the D.C. National Guard and also told the Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller to take whatever action is needed as events unfolded."
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/4/2021
8:00 AM
Metropolitan Police Department briefs D.C. Council on upcoming protests and the Insurrection Act.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/4/2021
A Capitol Police Civil Disturbance Unit briefing estimates that 20,000 people are expected to come to the Capitol that week and anticipates violence. Classified documents from the Secret Service and the FBI indicate that as many as 120,000 protesters came.
(Source: Newsweek)
1/4/2021
9:00 AM
Acting Secretary of Defense Miller meets with Secretary of the Army McCarthy, and CJCS Milley to discuss the role of the DC National Guard. This 9:00 AM meeting is not in the DOD timeline.
(Source: Newsweek)
1/4/2021
The Secret Service issues a "Protective Intelligence Brief, March for Trump, January 4, 2021". Despite the intelligence brief highlighting at least 57 different groups attending, and videos posted by Ali Alexander, the report concluded "no indication of civil disobedience" on January 6.
(Source: Newsweek)
1/4/2021
2:43 PM
Coordinated by DC's Chief of Homeland Security and Intelligence, Donnell Harvin, intelligence 'fusion-centers' across nation have a call on an influx of alarming intelligence leading up to 1/6.
(Source: The Washington Post)
The call notes recommend DC hospitals prepare for a mass casualty event. Harvin invites the FBI, DHS, and military intelligence services to review information as he collects it.
(Source: Just Security)
1/4/2021
USCP Chief Steven Sund directsthat additional Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) kits be available in the field if needed on 1/6. Sund also requests DCNG support through the House and Senate Sergeant at Arms but the request for Guardsmen is denied due to bad "optics".
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/4/2021
The DC Metropolitan Police arrest Enrique Tarrio, Chairman of Proud Boys, in connection with burning a Black Lives Matter flag taken from a historic Black church in Washington, D.C. in December. Tarrio is found having two high-capacity firearm magazines.
(Source: The New York Times)
1/4/2021
"The A/SD, in consultation with CJCS, SECARMY, and DoD General Counsel (GC), reviews the Department’s plan to be prepared to provide support to civil authorities, if asked, and approves activation of 340 members of the DCNG to support Mayor Bowser’s request. Support provided in response to Mayor Bowser’s request includes support at:
Traffic Control Points: 90 personnel (180 total/2 shifts);
Metro station support: 24 personnel (48 total/2 shifts);
Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team: 20 personnel;
and Internal Command and Control: 52 personnel.
A/SD also authorizes SECARMY to deploy a Quick Reaction Force (40 personnel staged at Joint Base Andrews) if additional support is requested by civil authorities."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/4/2021
"USCP confirms there is no requirement for DoD support in a phone call with SECARMY."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/4/2021
6:30 PM
US Capitol Police Chief Sund calls to DCNG Gen. Walker to see how many Guardsmen would be able to arrive to the Capitol on short notice, and how long it would take.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/4/2021
"Acting Secretary of Defense Miller issues guidance to the Secretary of the Army, stating that without Miller's personal authorization, the DCNG is not permitted to interact physically with protesters, deploy riot control agents, employ helicopters, and a number of other tactics, against protesters on January 6."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/5/2021
The FBI field office in Norfolk, Virgina, issues an internal warning that extremists are planning violence in response to 'unlawful lockdowns' on January 6 at the Capitol and that protesters were planning for "war". The FBI Norfolk warning was shared with the Capitol Police, but the Sergeant in the Capitol Police intelligence division who received the information did not elevate it to senior leadership.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/5/2021
10:00 AM
The chair of the House committee with oversight of the Capitol Police, Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), discusses preparations with House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving and USCP Chief Sund.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/5/2021
Around 11AM
Oath Keepers allegedly store weapons at the Comfort Inn Ballston in Arlington, Virginia.
(Source: Federal Indictments)
1/5/2021
12:53 PM
Following media reports the previous day that CBP and BOP agents had been deployed to DC, Mayor Bowser tweets to clarify that she has not requested any federal assistance, and that any deployment should be in consultation with the Metropolitan Police Department.
(Source: Twitter)
1/5/2021
Department of Homeland Security's Federal Protective Service warns of violent domestic violent extremists attending events planned for following day.
(Source: FOIA release, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Service, Investigations Branch)
1/5/2021
Proud Boys "Boots on the Ground" encrypted messaging channel is created to communicate on 1/6.
(Source: Federal Indictment)
1/5/2021
As reported by ProPublica, a 17-page Capitol Police operational plan dated January 5 states white supremacists and other domestic violent extremists are expected to attend the January 6 rally, but does not discuss a potential breach of the Capitol Building.
1/5/2021
Call between USCP Chief Sund, principles of Capitol Police Board, and top law enforcement and military officials.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/5/2021
Pro-Trump protesters gather at Freedom Plaza event. MPDC arrests at least 10 people during Tuesday's demonstrations.
(Source: The Hill)
1/5/2021
"DOD issues second memo limiting DCNG activity. The Washington Post reports, "In memos issued Monday and Tuesday in response to a request from the D.C. mayor, the Pentagon prohibited the District’s guardsmen from receiving ammunition or riot gear, interacting with protesters unless necessary for self-defense, sharing equipment with local law enforcement, or using Guard surveillance and air assets without the defense secretary’s explicit sign-off, according to officials familiar with the orders."
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/5/2021
"255 DCNG arrive in D.C. and begin to manage traffic control points alongside local law enforcement."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/5/2021
"Mayor Bowser delivers a letter addressed to the Acting Attorney General, A/SD, and SECARMY confirming that there are no additional support requirements from the D.C."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/5/2021
4:00 PM
In a phone call between USCP Chief Sund, House and Senate Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving and Michael Stenger, and Representative Tim Ryan, the security leaders of the Capitol assure the representative that "every precaution was being taken" for the following day.
(Source:The Washington Post )
1/5/2021
In a letter, the Secretary of the Army approves 340 additional DC National Guard members to support the DC Metropolitan Police. The document also outlines that the DCNG still needs to request equipment for self-defense from the Secretary of the Army, and withholds approval to deploy the National Guard Quick Reaction Force (QRF).
(Source: Just Security)
Later, DCNG Commander Walker testifies that he was required to submit a concept of operation to the Secretary of the Army before the QRF could be deployed, and that this was highly unusual.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
"The Secretary of the Army approves 340 additional DC National Guard members to support the DC Metropolitan Police."
1/5/2021
5:30-6:30PM
An individual places two pipe bombs between 5:30 and 6:30 PM at Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee Headquarters.
(Source: FBI)
1/6/2021
12:43 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: Get smart Republicans. FIGHT!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
1:00 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: If Vice President @Mike_Pence comes through for us, we will win the Presidency. Many States want to decertify the mistake they made in certifying incorrect & even fraudulent numbers in a process NOT approved by their State Legislatures (which it must be). Mike can send it back!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
A 13-page demonstration report, issued later by DHS, lists nearly 80 “First Amendment assemblies” taking place in Washington, D.C. between January 5 and January 29, 2021, including eight deemed of especially high visibility.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
Morning
Following a January 3 meeting in Virginia, elite FBI and Special Operations teams, including a tactical Hostage Rescue Team that would later be one of the first to enter the Capitol after the attack, are staged downtown closer to the Capitol.
(Source: Newsweek)
1/6/2021
7:00 AM
Trump supporters begin to gather near White House.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
8:06 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: Sleepy Eyes Chuck Todd is so happy with the fake voter tabulation process that he can't even get the words out straight. Sad to watch!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
8:17 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: States want to correct their votes, which they now know were based on irregularities and fraud, plus corrupt process never received legislative approval. All Mike Pence has to do is send them back to the States, AND WE WIN. Do it Mike, this is a time for extreme courage!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
8:22 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: THE REPUBLICAN PARTY AND, MORE IMPORTANTLY, OUR COUNTRY, NEEDS THE PRESIDENCY MORE THAN EVER BEFORE - THE POWER OF THE VETO. STAY STRONG!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
8:30 AM
"A/SD and CJCS review DoD plan to support law enforcement agencies and request an exercise regarding DoD contingency response options."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
9:00 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: They just happened to find 50,000 ballots late last night. The USA is embarrassed by fools. Our Election Process is worse than that of third world countries!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
9:15 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: The States want to redo their votes. They found out they voted on a FRAUD. Legislatures never approved. Let them do it. BE STRONG! )
(Source:UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
9:16 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: Even Mexico uses Voter I.D.
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
10:44 AM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: These scoundrels are only toying with the @sendavidperdue (a great guy) vote. Just didn't want to announce quite yet. They've got as many ballots as are necessary. Rigged Election!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
11:00 AM
Original planned beginning time for Trump speech at the Ellipse.
Original planned beginning time for Trump speech at the Ellipse.
1/6/2021
11:30 AM
"A/SD participates in table-top exercise regarding DoD contingency response options."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
11:57 AM
Trump begins speech. (Annotated version courtesy of the Associated Press)
1/6/2021
12:45 PM
First of two pipe bombs are found, first at RNC and later at the DNC.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
Mob on west side of Capitol building swells to more than 9,400 people (officers outnumbered by more than 58:1).
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
12:53 PM
On the west side of the building, Capitol Police lose their first line.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
12:54 PM
South of the first line break, protesters squeeze through a mesh fence and draw closer to the building.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
12:54 PM
The rioters then overpower USCP where first line broke.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
12:55 PM
Rioters then stream over mesh fences and metal barricades on pathway and the surrounding lawn.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
12:58 PM
Despite contradicting accounts, cell phone records show that Sund first called the House Sergeant at 12:58 p.m, and again four other times: at 1:05 p.m., 1:34 p.m., 1:39 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. to request National Guard support.
(Source: Forbes)
1/6/2021
12:59 PM
Congress meets in joint session.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
Before 1PM
The USCP riot squad get on a bus to await orders.
(Source: ProPublica)
1/6/2021
1:01 PM
USCP requests FEMS assistance at the U.S. Capitol.
1/6/2021
1:03 PM
MPDC advises USCP they have arrived on the scene.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:05 PM
"A/SD receives open source reports of demonstrator movements to U.S. Capitol."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
1:09 PM
Sund contacts Senate and House Sergeant at Arms (Irving and Stenger) requesting authorization to formally call in National Guard assistance. This, however, is disputed in the Irving's testimony.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
Trump ends his speech encouraging the crowd to move towards the Capitol building, "We're going to the Capitol." "We’re going to try and give them [Republicans] the kind of pride and boldness that they need to take back our country."
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:13 PM
Glover (MPDC) calls for CDUs, protective equipment, and DOS teams.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:15 PM
On west side of Capitol Building MPDC uses pepper spray and tasers in response to violent rioters.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:15 PM
Second explosive device reported at DNC headquarters. Capitol Police are diverted from Capitol building in order to evacuate buildings nearby.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:16 PM
At the Capitol's west entrance, rioters continue to attack and at least one uses bear mace.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:18 PM
MPDC regains control of southeastern corner of inaugural platform.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:18 PM
Glover (MPD) reports "Multiple Capitol injuries."
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:18 PM
DC Fire and EMS arrive at the Capitol.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:26 PM
"USCP orders evacuation of Capitol complex."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
1:29 PM
DC Acting Police chief Contee calls D.C. City Administrator Kevin Donahue to provide situational update from the Capitol.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:30 PM
By this time, "Irving sits at a desk placing calls to a law enforcement association that can organize mutual aid from county and state police forces in suburban Maryland and Virginia, according to people in the room."
(Source: Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:31 PM
As security at the Capitol continues to rapidly deteriorate, DC Mayor Bowser declares a state of emergency.
(Source: Twitter)
1/6/2021
1:33 PM
By this time, MPDC's Glover has called for hard reinforcements in riot gear at least seven times and for munition two times.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:34 PM
Footage depicts MPDC deploying first string ball to control crowd on the west side of the building with little effect.
(Source: The Washington Post )
1/6/2021
MPDC's Glover received confirmation that one unit, Platoon unit 42, is on its way to provide additional assistance. The Platoon unit, meant to reinforce Glover at western entrance to Capitol, is located at 200 10th St NW (1 mile away).
(Source:The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:34 PM
"SECARMY phone call with Mayor Bowser in which Mayor Bowser communicates request for unspecified number of additional forces."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
1:39 PM
MPDC's Glover orders officers to deploy 40mm launcher against rioters.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:39 PM-1:49 PM
Sund calls Walker for any available DCNG troops, a report that highlights a 10 minute discrepancy with the DOD timeline.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:43 PM
Under increasing pressure, MPDC's Glover asks again about location and ETA for Platoon 42.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:46 PM
Glover radios, "This is now effectively a riot".
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
1:49 PM
The dispatcher for Metropolitan Police declares situation at west Capitol entrance a riot.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
Glover has now requested backup at least 11 times, munitions 5 times.
(Source: The Washington Post. )
1/6/2021
1:49 PM
Rioters push past police line on the west side of Capitol Building.
(Source: The Washington Post. )
1/6/2021
1:49 PM
"Commanding General, DCNG, Walker phone call with USCP Chief Sund. Chief Sund communicates request for immediate assistance."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
1:49 PM
Immediately following the 1:49 phone call from Sund, Walker calls Army leaders to tell them about Sund’s request.
(Source: Congressional Testimony. This is excluded in the public DOD timeline.
1/6/2021
1:50 PM
USCP dispatched to look for other possible explosives at DNC, suggesting a potential plot to divert resources away from the Capitol building.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:51 PM
Sund activates Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Mutual Aid Agreement, requesting assistance from law enforcement agencies from the National Capital Region (NCR).
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
1:58 PM
On the northeast side of the Capitol, video footage shows police falling back as protestors walk through barricades.
(Source:The New York Times)
1/6/2021
2:00 PM
Unable to reach MPDC Glover's unit, Platoon 42 is still on steps on the west side of the Capitol Building.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:00 PM
On the east side of the Capitol, the crowd breaks through the barricades.
(Source: The New York Times)
1/6/2021
2:08 PM
Rioters break past police officers on scaffolding on the inaugural platform.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
Around this time
Estimates that at least 2,000 people have pushed past police lines on east side of the building and have attempted to break in.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:10 PM
"Director Rodriguez calls USCP Chief Sund asking what support is needed immediately; Sund replies he needs anything that can be provided. With MPD and FEMS already at the Capitol under the Mayor's authority, Rodriguez offers to set up a call with DCNG and MPD to outline USCP's specific needs for DCNG support. This can only be approved by SecArmy and A/ SecDef, and DCNG includes staff of SecArmy on the call".
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
2:13 PM
Dispatcher confirms that rioters have broken windows on east side of Capitol and then immediately confirms that Capitol east entrance has been breached.
(Source: The Washington Post. )
1/6/2021
Between 2:12 and 2:24 Glover requests four times for a fall back point; no response on where to fall back is provided.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:13 PM
Senator Mitt Romney reverses course down hallway to avoid rioters.
(Source: Impeachment Evidence)
1/6/2021
2:15 PM
VP Pence is evacuated to first secure location and Senator Chuck Grassley gavels Senate to recess.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:14 PM
Rioters reach the Senate chamber; USCP Officer Eugene Goodman leads rioters away from location of VP Pence.
(Source: The Washington Post. )
1/6/2021
According to an unreleased Pentagon timeline, Sund makes a second "frantic" call to Walker to send at least 200 Guard members and more if available.
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/6/2021
Around 2:20PM
FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich dispatches the first of three tactical teams to the Capitol building, following a call from a colleague who had spoken with an aid barricaded inside a Senate office.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:22 PM
"SECARMY phone call with D.C. Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Dr. Rodriguez, and MPD leadership to discuss the current situation and to request additional DCNG support."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
"Rodriguez (DC DHS) convenes a call for USCP with MPD, FEMS, DCNG, and staff of SecArmy to ensure coordination; other D.C. government officials listen in, including Mayor Bowser. On the call, USCP requests immediate DCNG support from General Walker and staff of SecArmy. Contee directly asks Sund if he is requesting DCNG at the U.S. Capitol. Sund says yes. In response, staff of SecArmy says they are not comfortable sending DCNG to the Capitol to confront peaceful protestors without a comprehensive plan. MPD has already been on scene at the U.S. Capitol for over an hour."
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
2:24 PM
On the East side of the Capitol Building, the Dispatcher confirms: "be advised, they've breached the Senate door on the east side of the building as well."
(Source: The Washington Post)
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: Mike Pence didn't have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution, giving States a chance to certify a corrected set of facts, not the fraudulent or inaccurate ones which they were asked to previously certify. USA demands the truth!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
2:25 PM
"At 2:25 p.m., McCarthy told his staff to prepare to move the emergency reaction force to the Capitol. The force could be ready to move in 20 minutes." In the twenty minutes before this, the AP additionally reports that "On the Pentagon’s third floor E Ring, senior Army leaders were huddled around the phone for what they described as a “panicked” call from the D.C. Guard. As the gravity of the situation became clear, McCarthy bolted from the meeting, sprinting down the hall to Miller’s office and breaking into a meeting."
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/6/2021
2:26 PM
House goes back into session before recessing at 2:29PM.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:25 PM
VP Pence is evacuated from his hiding place (less than 100 feet from rioters) to a secure location.
(Source: Impeachment Evidence)
1/6/2021
President Trump speaks to Sen. Tommy Tuberville via phone, urging further objection to the electoral count.
(Source: USA Today)
1/6/2021
2:29 PM
MPDC's Glover announces on radio the unit has lost their line, and directs all MPDC officers to pull back to the upper deck on the West side of the Capitol Building.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:30 PM
"A/SD, CJCS, and SECARMY meet to discuss USCP and Mayor Bowser’s requests."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
2:31 PM
Mayor Bowser's Office contacts the White House Executive Office of the President and staff-level conversations commence.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
Conversations ensue between staff at the White House Executive Office of the President and the DC Mayor's Office.
1/6/2021
2:32 PM
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer comes at a near pass with rioters in the building, as shown in the evidence presented during the impeachment of Donald Trump.
(Source: Impeachment Evidence)
1/6/2021
2:33 PM
Emergency management channel in DC broadcasts a call for all available law enforcement officers to report to the Capitol.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:38 PM
Capitol Police and staffers barricade main entrance of House floor.
(Source: The Washington Post)
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
2:39 PM
Oath Keepers, using a "stack" formation, forcibly breach Capitol on the east.
(Source: Federal Indictment)
1/6/2021
2:39 PM
Mayor Bowser's Chief of Staff calls counterparts in Maryland and Virginia to confirm formal requests have been made, and both confirm Governors are approving resources to the District.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
2:42 PM
Last staffers and lawmakers evacuate House chamber floor, but those in the upper gallery remain unable to leave.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:44 PM
Attempting entry into the Speaker's lobby, rioter Ashli Babbitt is shot by Capitol Police.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:49 PM
House members in the upper gallery are evacuated.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2-3PM
"Members of a specially trained D.C. police civil disturbance unit commandeer a WMATA bus and have the driver take them as close to the Capitol as possible to join in the fray. Police officers from surrounding counties in Maryland and Virginia begin arriving. Prince George’s County police are instructed to try to gain control of the north side of the west terrace. Montgomery and Arlington county officers press up a staircase on the west side. Virginia state police begin battling with rioters under the mid-level terrace on the west side. Some of the units from Maryland and Virginia arrive more quickly than Capitol police had expected because D.C. police had coordinated in advance to have them on standby. When Capitol police asked D.C. for help at 1 p.m., D.C. activated its plans with regional forces."
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:52 PM
The first FBI SWAT team enters the Capitol.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
2:56 PM
Mayor Bowser speaks with Mark Meadows, Chief of Staff to President Trump.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
Mayor Bowser speaks with Mark Meadows, Chief of Staff to President Trump.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
3:00 PM
"A/SD determines all available forces of the DCNG are required to reinforce MPD and USCP positions to support efforts to reestablish security of the Capitol complex."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
"SECARMY directs DCNG to prepare available Guardsmen to move from the armory to the Capitol complex, while seeking formal approval from A/SD for deployment. DCNG prepares to move 150 personnel to support USCP, pending A/SD’s approval."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
3:04 PM
"A/SD, with advice from CJCS, DoD GC, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau (CNGB), SECARMY, and the Chief of Staff of the Army, provides verbal approval of the full activation of DCNG (1100 total) in support of the MPD. Immediately upon A/SD approval, Secretary McCarthy directs DCNG to initiate movement and full mobilization."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
3:05 PM
New Jersey counterpart contacts Bowser's Chief of Staff offering resources.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
3:13 PM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
3:19 PM
"SECARMY phone call with Senator Schumer and Speaker Pelosi about the nature of Mayor Bowser’s request. SECARMY explains A/SD already approved full DCNG"
mobilization.
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
3:26 PM
Mayor Bowser speaks with Secretary of the Army, who confirms USCP request for DCNG support has been approved.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
3:36 PM
White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany tweets: “At President @realDonaldTrump’s direction, the National Guard is on the way along with other federal protective services. We reiterate President Trump’s call against violence and to remain peaceful.
(Source: Twitter)
1/6/2021
3:37 PM
An unreleased Pentagon timeline reports that by 3:37PM the Pentagon sent its own security forces to guard the homes of defense leaders. No troops had yet reached the Capitol.
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/6/2021
3:46 PM
"CNGB phone call with the Adjutant General (TAG) of Virginia to discuss support in Washington D.C. TAG said Governor had ordered mobilization of forces at 1532."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
3:48 PM
"SECARMY departs Pentagon for MPD HQ."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
3:55 PM
"CNGB phone call with TAG of Maryland to discuss support in Washington D.C. TAG said governor ordered the mobilization of the rapid response force. TAG reports Governor had ordered mobilization of the rapid response force at 1547."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
4:08 PM
The unreleased Pentagon timeline reports that Pence called Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller, and during a one-minute phone conversation "Pence said the Capitol was not secure and he asked military leaders for a deadline for securing the building, according to the document."
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/6/2021
4:10 PM
"SECARMY arrives at MPD HQ."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
4:17 PM
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) Tweets video to Capitol rioters.
(Source: C-SPAN)
1/6/2021
4:18 PM
"A/SD, CJCS, SECARMY, and CNGB discuss availability of National Guard (NG) forces from other States in the region. A/SD gives voice approval for out-of-State NG forces to muster and to be prepared to deploy to D.C."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
4:30 PM
DC Homeland Security's Emergency Management Agency convenes the Consequence Management Team.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
4:32 PM
"A/SD provides verbal authorization to re-mission DCNG to conduct perimeter and clearance operations in support of USCP. SECARMY to provide public notification of support."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
4:40 PM
"SECARMY phone call with Governor of Maryland. Governor to send Maryland NG troops to D.C., expected to arrive on January 7, 2021."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
4:40 PM
An unpublished internal Pentagon timeline obtained by the AP reports that: "At about 4:40 p.m. Pelosi and Schumer were again on the phone with Milley and the Pentagon leadership, asking Miller to secure the perimeter."
(Source: The Associated Press)
1/6/2021
5:02 PM
"Departure of 154 DCNG from D.C. Armory in support of USCP. Arrive at Capitol at 1740, swear in with USCP, and begin support operations."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
5:36 PM
USCP Chief Sund briefs VP Pence on the current security posture, and Pence then calls Speaker Pelosi to plan reopening the chambers at 7:30PM.
(Source: Congressional Testimony)
1/6/2021
5:39 PM
JOC flash message to all DCNG to report to DC Armory.
(Source: New York Times Reporter Thomas Gibbons-Neff Twitter)
1/6/2021
5:40 PM
150 members of DG National Guard arrive to the Capitol.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
5:45 PM
"A/SD signs formal authorization for out-of-State NG to muster and gives voice approval for deployment in support of USCP."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
6:00 PM
Citywide curfew begins in DC.
Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) tweets: These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election victory is so unceremoniously & viciously stripped away from great patriots who have been badly & unfairly treated for so long. Go home with love & in peace. Remember this day forever!
(Source: UCSB Presidency Project)
1/6/2021
6:14 PM
"USCP, MPD, and DCNG successfully establish perimeter on the west side of the U.S. Capitol."
(Source: Pentagon)
1/6/2021
7:00 PM
By this time, agents from the FBI and ATF have searched the Capitol for rioters room by room.
(Source: The Washington Post)
Twitter removes Trump’s tweets and shuts down his account for 12 hours for “repeated and severe violations of [its] Civic Integrity policy."
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
7:00 PM
Senate staff exit secure location to begin counting electoral votes.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
7:36 PM
"A/SD provides vocal approval to lease fences in support of the USCP for security of the Capitol building."
(Source: The Pentagon)
1/6/2021
8:00 PM
"USCP declares Capitol building secure."
(Source: The Pentagon)
1/6/2021
8:06 PM
The Senate enters back into session.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/6/2021
9:00 PM
The House enters back into session.
(Source: The Washington Post)
1/7/2021
USCP Chief Sund Resigns.
(Source: ABC News)
1/7/2021
Senate Leader Mitch McConnell requests resignation of House Sergeant at Arms.
(Source: Reuters)
1/8/2021
State Department Dissent Channel leaked to the public on Twitter.
(Source: Twitter feed of Josh Rogin, The Washington Post)
1/8/2021
Pentagon releases its timeline of January 6.
(Source: Department of Defense)
1/8/2021
Twitter issues permanent suspension of @realDonaldTrump account.
(Source: Twitter)
1/11/2021
House Sergeant at Arms Resigns.
(Source: The Washington Post)
Director of Army staff makes statement on delaying National Guard: "I, nor anyone else from DoD, denied the deployment of requested personnel.
(Source: Twitter)
1/11/2021
The United States Postal Inspection Service, issues a now declassified bulletin that describes individual and collective efforts to archive from the insurrection.
(Source: Property of the People)
1/11/2021
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse issues statement on Insurrection.
(Source: Office of Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Senate)
1/12/2021
The CRS publishes a report: Cybersecurity Concerns Related to the Recent Breach of U.S. Capitol Security.
(Source: Congressional Research Service)
Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff issues statement to the joint force, confirming that Joe Biden will be inaugurated on January 20, 2021.
(Source: JCS)
1/13/2021
Joint Intelligence Bulletin finds extremist groups are emboldened after attack.
(Source: Yahoo News)
1/21/2021
Representative Carolyn Maloney, Chair of the House Oversight Committee, issues a letter to FBI Director Wray to begin an investigation into the January 6 attack.
(Source: Twitter)
1/26/2021
FBI announces it is working with ATF to identify individual behind RNC pipe bomb, and that it has received over 200,000 tips from the public to identify those who participated in the violent attacks on the Capitol.
(Source: FBI)
2/9/2021
Impeachment trial of Donald Trump begins.
(Source: NPR)
2/13/2021
Donald Trump is acquitted.
(Source: The Guardian)
2/23/2021
Chief Contee testifies before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs.
(Source: Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee)
2/23/2021
Testimony of USCP Former Chief of Police Steven A. Sund before the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
(Source: Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs)
3/2/2021
Statement of Christopher A. Wray, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
(Source: Congressional Testimony. )
3/2/2021
Testimony of Acting Under Secretary for the Office of Intelligence and Analysis, Department of Homeland Security, Melissa Smislova.
(Source: Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs)
3/3/2021
Testimony of William J. Walker, Commanding General, District of Columbia National Guard.
(Source: Congressional Testimony. )
3/18/2021
Army releases a report on Army operations on January 6, 2021.
(Source: Just Security)
4/10/2021
The AP reports a previously unreleased Pentagon timeline which includes key details withheld on the timeline the Pentagon initially made public.
(Source: The Associated Press)
6/15/2021
The Biden Administration publishes a paper, "Strategy for Combating Domestic Extremism."
(Source: The New York Times)
6/16/2021
House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Fact Sheet and Timeline: Delayed National Guard Response to January 6 Insurrection (released on June. 16, 2021)
(Source: Just Security)
9/8/2021
The FBI renews a call for tips related to the individual who places the pipe bomb at the DNC and the RNC, releasing more information about the episode.
(Source: The FBI)
11/16/2021
Department of Defense Office of Inspector General publishes a report on January 6, finding that the Department's actions leading up to event were adequate.
(Source: Department of Defense Inspector General)
12/9/2021
A federal appeals court ruled against former President Trump’s attempt to withhold his White House records from the January 6 Committee, after President Biden declined to assert executive privilege as requested by Trump, and a lower court held that the privilege depended on the sitting president’s decision rather than any former president’s claim.
(Source: The Washington Post)
12/20/2021
Pentagon issues new guidance to rule out extremism in the ranks.
(Source: Pentagon)
National Security Archive
Suite 701, Gelman Library
The George Washington University
2130 H Street, NW
Washington, D.C., 20037
Phone: 202/994-7000
Fax: 202/994-7005
Contact by email
The National Security Archive is committed to digital accessibility. If you experience a barrier that affects your ability to access content on this page, let us know via our Contact form.
Back to top
