Keystone Today

U.S. Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC-District 13) in his one-on-one Zoom interview with WFMY News 2's Meghann Mollerus called for a peaceful inauguration.

Recalling the mayhem at the Capitol during the count of the Electoral College votes, he said there were no blue or red parties at that point when they were being attacked by the violent mob.

He was on the House floor delivering his speech when the lawmakers needed to be escorted out from the scene for their safety.

"You could see the movement of the Capitol police and sergeant of arms on the floor,” Budd recalled. They closed the doors, made an announcement saying they would be using some tear gas, so they asked us to use gas masks and get those ready... there was a lady who was shot that was to the Speaker's right hand, 20 feet behind her.”

"My speech (about objecting to the Electoral count) had words quoting Democrat Barbara Lee (CA), who was an objector in a prior election (Ohio in 2005)," he continued. “Interestingly, as we're going arm in arm and helping members down the stairs, I realize I'm arm in arm with Barbara Lee. So, we're all neither Republicans or Democrats, at that point," Budd clearly remembered.

With President Joe Biden being sworn into office Wednesday, Budd had called for what both parties were urging from every American, peace.

"I would encourage everyone, wherever someone is on the political spectrum, let's stay home. And, let's be people of peace," he urged.