Last week was when a big political rally for Trump went awry. Or was that Trump that went awry? Sedition? Coup? Who did this? Blame who you want, it looks like it is time to pay the bill. I do not know how much damage was done to our Capitol building but it was significant. But even more so was the damage to our reputation as a stable democracy. You can forget that “light on a hill” stuff for now. Maybe we can relight that beam again. Sometime or other. But do not hold your breath.

What was happening in Washington became obvious to me before it happened. What did the President think this hyped-up political mob was going to do? Seems they did what he asked them to do? Well, to be honest, most of them just wandered around in the cold waving their banners and having a good time. Many prepared for their trips home, but a sizable number — led by a group of who knows who — decided to take over the Capitol Building. And they did. Both houses were in session going over the Electoral College’s Presidential election results. Nancy’s podium was desecrated and dragged around (swiped?) while Senators and Congressmen fled to the tunnels and crypts in fear for their lives. Mitch’s office, as were most all others was ransacked. His American Flag was torn from its staff and replaced with a Trump flag. Six people including two Capital Building police officers were killed in the first few minutes of this tragic and ugly unpeaceful protest.

Other damages noted were numerous and top-secret documents strown around, historical mahogany desks turned over and priceless artwork and statuary works damaged. Some dubiouslooking individuals made sure they were broadcast on TV and social media sitting in chairs normally reserved for high-ranked elected officials. It is with no sadness that I hear that many arrests are being made even as I type. Lots of seditionist had their faces captured on TV and social media. Yes. For all the world to see. Word is, if you got pictured inside the building, you better look out. You face arrest too. Trump? He is in a bind too, seen as a manic. A danger to the Presidency. To our country.

I heard that nothing of this sort has ever happened to the capitol building before and perhaps it has not. Well, at least not since 1812 when some foreign vandals (the British) shot off a cannon inside the dome and briefly occupied the White House. Dolly Madison was said to be furious. And this too. On March 4 of 1829 there was guy named Andrew Jackson that was elected President. As was customary on the night of inauguration a big party was thrown at the White House. Jackson, Instead of just inviting high level politicians, ambassadors and such, Old Hickory invited all his old friends to come in. They did.

The crowd of old drinking buddies was large and rowdy as Tennesseans and others crammed into the mansion. Folks from all over came and joined in the fun. Free food and whisky for all? In fact, over 20,000 jammed the White House. People stood on expensive chairs and tables with their muddy shoes and boots. Carpets were ruined. Dishes and expensive crystal were swiped or smashed. Many sat in the big windows and others just prowled the place. Frantic White House staff members tried to lead the partiers outside by sitting tubs of whisky outside on the lawn. It too was consumed by the happy mob and the lawn met the same fate as the carpeted floors inside. Ruined. Trump was compared to Jackson this week. Both claimed to be outsiders. Both urged people to reclaim America for themselves. But Jackson had been in politics before. He served as a US Senator and was well known. Trump? No.

White House inaugural parties ended with a guy named Grover Cleveland in 1885. He instigated an inaugural parade instead. Enough of this, he said. And let me say, if you were in DC last Tuesday you might want to go fishing for about a year. They are looking for you.

Have a good week and be sure and take your COVID shot. Maybe we can all get back in church again. Soon.

Wayne Bullard, DPh

cwaynebullard@gmail.com