Washington, D.C.  — Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) voted in favor of H.R. 3233, the National Commission to Investigate the January 6 Attack on the United States Capitol Complex Act. This legislation would establish an independent commission to investigate the January 6th insurrection against the United States of America.

“The January 6th insurrection was a horrifying domestic attack on our very democracy, and we must investigate how the warning signs were neglected through so many chains of command, why our Capitol Police were left without the support and resources they need, and what can be done to prevent future violence,” said Rep. Kuster. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation to create an independent commission to investigate January 6th, and I will continue working to ensure our country and our democracy are protected from violent extremists.”

The Commission will be charged with:

• Investigating and reporting upon the facts and causes of the January 6th attack on the Capitol as well as the influencing factors that may have provoked the attack on our democracy;
• Examining and evaluating evidence developed by relevant Federal, State, and local governments, in a manner that is respectful of ongoing investigations, regarding the facts and circumstances of the attack;
• Building upon other investigations regarding the attack and targeted violence and domestic terrorism-related to such attack;
• Reporting to the President and Congress regarding its findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective measures taken to prevent future acts of targeted violence and domestic terrorism.

Like the 9/11 Commission, the measure establishes a 10-person bipartisan commission with five commissioners, including the Chair, appointed by the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader of the Senate and five commissioners, including the Vice Chair, appointed by the Minority Leaders of the House and Senate. Commissioners must have significant expertise in the areas of law enforcement, civil rights, civil liberties, privacy, intelligence, and cybersecurity. Current government officers or employees are prohibited from appointment. 

The Commission will be required to issue a final report with findings regarding the facts and causes of the attack, along with recommendations to prevent future attacks on our democratic institutions, by December 31, 2021.

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