Vivek Ramaswamy, the GOP presidential hopeful and biotech entrepreneur, reiterated his belief that the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, might have been an inside job during a recent CNN town hall. The controversial stance, previously declared at a GOP debate, has sparked discussions on government involvement.
At the town hall, moderator Abby Philip questioned Ramaswamy about the impact of his words on a Jan. 6 defendant’s sentencing. Ramaswamy maintained his position, suggesting the government played an active role in the events. He connected this theory to the government’s alleged deceptions on topics like COVID-19 origins, Hunter Biden’s laptop, and Trump’s Russia collusion, emphasizing a pattern of dishonesty.
While careful not to outright declare the riot an inside job, Ramaswamy hinted at potential government involvement. He cited the presence of federal law enforcement agents on the scene, a claim challenged by Philip, who highlighted the lack of evidence for such allegations. Ramaswamy accused her of bias, insisting on the importance of discussing these claims.
Philip pressed Ramaswamy for evidence, questioning the validity of his entrapment theory. Despite the lack of direct proof, Ramaswamy pointed to circumstantial evidence, including unredacted footage allegedly revealing Capitol Police welcoming rioters. The conversation showcased the candidate’s unyielding stance on the controversial topic.
With the Iowa caucuses approaching, Ramaswamy faces an uphill battle, trailing behind Trump, Ron DeSantis, and Nikki Haley in polls. Critics, including Rep. Ro Khanna from Biden’s camp, dismiss Ramaswamy’s claims as sensationalism without offering real solutions to pressing issues. As the GOP race intensifies, Ramaswamy’s controversial assertions remain a focal point.