Zip-tie guy – Attorney Leah Wilson says that it’s hard to believe that zip-tie guy (Eric Munchel) was dumb enough to “create evidence for the prosecutors in this case just to show their friends and post on social media.” It’s provided “mountains of evidence” for federal prosecutors to use in their prosecution.
The Nashville man spoke with a reporter after the storming of the Capitol and said “We wanted to show that we’re willing to rise up, band together and fight if necessary. Same as our forefathers, who established this country in 1776.” He was unmasked by the Internet and arrested by the FBI. (KUTV, USA Today, Tennessean)
But wait – there’s more! Another zip-tie guy turns out to be a retired Air Force Lt. Colonel and combat veteran who was identified by his ex-wife and reported to the FBI. Larry Brock was photographed on the Senate floor on Wednesday wearing tactical gear and carrying zip-tie handcuffs. He told The New Yorker that he was at the Capitol because he believed Trump wanted him there. “The President asked for his supporters to be there to attend, and I felt like it was important, because of how much I love this country, to actually be there,” (Military Times, The New Yorker, Inside Edition)
“Don’t you know who I am?!” – As Capitol Police increased security following Wednesday’s insurrection, metal detectors were installed and everyone – including members of Congress – are being required to pass through them. Some Republican legislators decided that the rules did not apply to them. “This is horses***,” said Rep. Rodney Davis, the top Republican on the House Administration Committee. Freshman Rep. Lauren Boebert called it a “political stunt” by Nancy Pelosi. At least two members – Steve Womack of Arkansas and Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma began yelling at Capitol Police. Rep. Steve Stivers and Rep. Chip Roy told Capitol Police that making lawmakers use metal detectors was “unconstitutional.” (It’s not.)
This is insanity pic.twitter.com/lvyFD9Uqkj
— Joshua Potash (@JoshuaPotash) January 13, 2021
Speaker Pelosi was not amused. She issued a statement yesterday that read: “On behalf of the House, I express my deepest gratitude to the U.S. Capitol Police for the valor that they showed during the deadly insurrection on the Capitol, as they protected the lives of the staff and Congress. Sadly, just days later, many House Republicans have disrespected our heroes by verbally abusing them and refusing to adhere to basic precautions keeping members of our Congressional community, including the Capitol Police, safe. The House will soon move forward with a rule change imposing fines on those who refuse to abide by these protections. The fine for the first offense will be $5,000 and $10,000 for the second offense. The fines will be deducted directly from Members’ salaries.” (Wall Street Journal, CNN, HuffPo, The Hill)
Feel good story of the day – Pleasant Grove City Councilwoman recently shared some photos of a bald eagle that spent some time hanging out at the Manila Creek Pond and the story behind it. “Michelle B, who lives in the area said, ‘The eagle showed up the day I found out I COVID and stayed until our quarantine was over. He gave us something to look forward to for sure. He also happened to show up on the one year anniversary of my dad’s passing who happened to be a bird whisperer of sorts. My 8 year old daughter is an animal lover and loved having an eagle for a ‘pet.’ She named him Snowfall. It has been one of the coolest experiences ever!’” See the pictures from photographer Jason Robison here.
