US in chaos as protesters storm Capitol over Electoral College vote count

Political tensions in the US have finally boiled over with pro-Trump protesters storming the Capitol in tense scenes.

Trump’s supporters have not only taken to the streets, but have also breached the US Capitol after breaking through barriers, withstanding tear gas and engaging in an armed standoff with police in a stunning refusal to accept Mr Trump’s election loss.

The Capitol is now in lockdown and Vice President Mike Pence has been evacuated, with other politicians ordered to seek shelter underneath their desks and the National Guard called in.

Congress is currently in session to count and certify the Electoral College votes following the November 3 election, with MAGA supporters attempting to disrupt the proceedings and overthrow the results by storming the House Floor.

Audibly shaken commentators have likened the situation to that of a “third world country”, with CNN anchors this morning describing the chaos as a full-blown “rebellion” in Washington DC and claiming Americans were “witnessing an attempt at sedition” on their television screens.

This is just Bedlam … this is Trump’s rebellion,” one said, adding the situation was “very, very tense” and “out of control”.

Reporters said they had not seen anything like the unfolding crisis since the Vietnam War, labelling the situation “unprecedented” and claiming it was “not a peaceful process”.

Donald Trump himself is facing serious criticism for so far failing to order his supporters to stand down, with the President yet to make a public statement.

The only comment he has made on the chaos has been a tweet urging Americans to “Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!”, which critics have dismissed as a “flaccid” response.

Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021