Capitol Attorney Resigns, Reflects on January 6 Cases

WASHINGTON — Sean McCauley, an assistant U.S. attorney, resigned from his position this week following his involvement in cases related to the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. In his resignation letter, McCauley described his work on these cases as an “opportunity of a lifetime” and praised his colleagues in the Capitol Siege Section as among the “finest and brightest attorneys in the country.”

McCauley highlighted the importance of their efforts in documenting the violent insurrection led by supporters of Donald Trump, who had perpetuated false claims about the 2020 election. The cases pursued by the Capitol Siege Section, he wrote, would contribute to a historical understanding of that day’s events.

“From this office, we called out to the future so that the people who occupy it may know the truth about what happened that day. History will know that day because of what we did,” McCauley stated in his letter, obtained by NBC News. He emphasized the significance of their record in light of ongoing discussions about the Capitol riot.

Since the attack, there have been ongoing legal battles and discussions about the implications of the events on American democracy. McCauley’s resignation adds to a growing narrative around the legal ramifications of the insurrection. “That matters — now more than ever — and no one can ever take that away,” he concluded.

As McCauley prepares for fatherhood this spring, he expressed pride in his small role in defending the rule of law amidst threats of mob violence. “Someday, probably after he is eating solid foods, I will be able to tell my son that I played a very small part in the effort to protect the rule of law and our democratic order in the face of mob violence,” he wrote.

Amid this backdrop, the political scene in Washington remains charged. During a recent press conference, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., was confronted about his confidence in Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Jeffries dismissed questions by saying, “next question” multiple times and critiqued reporters for attempting to divert attention from pressing issues affecting the American people.

Jeffries stated that there are still undecided Senate votes regarding a GOP-led continuing resolution intended to avert a government shutdown. This comes as the House circulates apprehension about Schumer’s decision to support the bill, which some Democrats believe might compromise their values.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi weighed in, urging Senate Democrats to reject the GOP funding measure, encouraging a more short-term funding solution instead. “Democratic senators should listen to the women,” Pelosi said, pointing to appropriations leaders who argued for a better funding choice.

The unfolding situation surrounding the January 6 proceedings and the potential government shutdown highlights the palpable tensions within the political landscape, as lawmakers navigate both the legal outcomes of past events and the immediate challenges of governance.