United States Representative Cindy Axne from Iowa’s Third Congressional District expected objections from Republicans during Wednesday’s Congressional Certification process.

But, she wasn’t expecting the scene that unfolded at the Capitol as protesters broke into the building and forced government officials to shelter in place.

“All hell broke loose. They stormed the Capitol. The police were overrun. I’m watching videos of people sitting in the Speaker [of the House’s] chair. They’re traipsing through the Capitol. It’s a wild scene out here.”

Due to COVID-19 protocols and Axne not being one of the objectors, she was watching the ceremony away from the House Floor. She says despite the unprecedented violence and attempted coup from the rioters that she will continue to fight for the democratic process.

“I will always stand up for our country, and I encourage the folks in Guthrie County to stay safe, to stay vigilant, to get your vaccine when you can and to try and create peace within your communities and to help each other out. Iowa’s better than this. Let’s do what we do best and show the country that we know how to come together.”

To hear more from Axne, tune in to today’s Let’s Talk Guthrie County program.