UNITED STATES

McConnell says Trump 'responsible' for Capitol assault, despite acquittal

He called former president's actions leading up to the siege "a disgraceful dereliction of duty"

McConnell: President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day. Agencies

H. J. I. / AFP

Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell delivered a scathing rebuke of Donald Trump on Saturday despite voting to acquit the former president on an impeachment charge, saying he was responsible for the January 6 mob assault on the US Capitol.

-There's no question -- none -- that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day- McConnell said in a speech following the vote that led to Trump's acquittal.

-These criminals were carrying his banners. Hanging his flags. And screaming their loyalty to him.-

He called Trump's actions leading up to the siege "a disgraceful dereliction of duty."

McConnell went further and suggested Trump could face charges now that he is out of office.

-President Trump is still liable for everything he did while he was in office, as an ordinary citizen- he said. -He didn't get away with anything yet.-

The Republican from Kentucky, however, said he voted to acquit Trump on a charge of inciting insurrection because, he said, it is unconstitutional to convict a president in an impeachment trial after he has left office.