Trump DOJ nominee declines to call January 6 an 'attack,' citing 'protests and such'

Donald Trump's nominee to oversee the Justice Department's internal affairs, Don Berthiaume, has refused to characterize the January 6 Capitol riot as an "attack." During his confirmation hearing, Berthiaume, a career Justice Department employee currently serving as inspector general, described the events as "protests and such."

Senators pressed Berthiaume on his choice of words, seeking to understand his perspective on the events of January 6, 2021. His reluctance to use the term "attack" has drawn scrutiny, with some senators expressing concern about his potential impartiality and his willingness to confront wrongdoing within the department.

The role of inspector general is crucial for maintaining accountability and transparency within government agencies. The nominee's framing of the January 6 events could signal how he would approach investigations into politically sensitive matters, raising questions about his suitability for the independent watchdog position.

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protests and such