Washington, D.C. – A former US Capitol Police officer who bravely defended the Capitol during the 6 January attack announced his bid for Congress. Harry Dunn gained recognition for his emotional testimony during the investigation of the 2021 attack, and now he aims to enter the political arena as a Democrat from Maryland.
Dunn testified multiple times about the horrifying experience of facing the mob of Donald Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol. He revealed the racial slurs and insults hurled at him while he tried to protect the lawmakers. This motivated him to step into the political realm to confront the forces that fueled the violent attack and to push back against those who denied the violence and trauma of that day.
In a video announcing his campaign, Dunn emphasized the need to put country above self and expressed his disappointment in lawmakers who stood behind Trump and voted to acquit him. He believes that the current political climate is a threat to democracy and that he has a duty to protect and serve as an equal to the people in Congress whom he spent 15 years protecting.
Resigning from the police force in December 2023, Dunn enters a crowded Democratic primary field before making it to the general election ballot. The third Congressional district in Maryland, where he is running, typically votes Democrat. He was one of 14 recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Joe Biden for his brave actions on 6 January.
Dunn’s decision to run for Congress comes after releasing a book in 2023, detailing his experience as a Capitol Police officer during and after the events of 6 January. This move echoes that of Democrat Harry Reid, who also served in Congress after being a former Capitol Police officer. Dunn’s story adds a new dimension to the political landscape, as he aims to represent the voices of those who have bravely stood against the forces that threaten democracy.