A Timeline of the Government’s Response on Jan. 6, 2021

The precise timeline of events on Jan. 6, 2021 — the day that a mob of supporters of former President Donald Trump’s false claims of election fraud stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of the presidential election — has emerged as one of the critical open questions about that day. Even before the rioters left the building, there were already conflicting reports about the sequence of events, who knew what, when they knew it, and what actions they took.

American Oversight has obtained and reviewed more than a dozen sets of emails, timelines, and call logs produced by the key federal agencies involved in the response to the insurrection, including the Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security, the National Guard, the Park Police, and the Secret Service. These records were acquired through nine Freedom of Information Act requests and four lawsuits filed over the course of 2021.

The records include handwritten call logs of acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen; eight pages of handwritten, minute-by-minute notes from the D.C. National Guard; and heavily redacted Secret Service emails documenting the movements of Vice President Mike Pence, among other files. 

This page combines each of these records — along with details from public reporting and the Pentagon’s published timeline  — into a single, comprehensive timeline of the actions, phone calls, and updates that each agency documented and released relating to the events of Jan. 6. Each entry is linked to the underlying government record or public reporting from which it was sourced, with the exception of those entries taken from the Pentagon’s timeline.

It is important to note that these entries are not a definitive account of what happened that day, nor are they necessarily correct. Rather, like all public records, they represent what officials within each agency wrote down, compiled, and emailed, and the timeline reflects a few discrepancies between the various accounts. 

However, taken together, these records offer a window into the chaos and confusion that followed the assault on the Capitol. As more details become available through congressional hearings, reporting, and further document releases, the timeline below provides a reference for assessing new information, cross-checking testimony, and, ultimately, determining how the attack and response unfolded.

For a detailed explanation of this timeline’s sources, please see below.

8 – 11:59 a.m.  |  12 – 12:59 p.m.  |  1 – 1:59 p.m.  |  2 – 2:59 p.m.  |   3 – 3:59 p.m.  | 

4 – 4:59 p.m.  |  5 – 6:59 p.m.  |  7 – 9:59 p.m.  |  10 p.m. – 12 a.m.

8 – 11:59 a.m.

On the morning of Jan. 6, 2021, as a crowd of 10,000 gathered to watch then-President Donald Trump speak at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., the first signs of the day’s upcoming violence became apparent. A man brandished a pitchfork outside of the Washington Monument, Park Police reported a mob at the Lincoln Memorial, and some rally attendees showed up in ballistic armor. At the same time, Trump continued to spread his lies of a stolen election over Twitter and Vice President Mike Pence, in a letter to Congress, said he would certify the election results per his constitutional obligations. As crowds continued to gather at the Ellipse by the thousands, Capitol Police investigated reports of militia-like formations near the Capitol. At 11:39 a.m., Trump left the White House to speak at the rally.

8:00 AM

  • 8:06 a.m. - 

    An internal Secret Service alert says that roughly 10,000 people are waiting to go through magnetometers and some are “wearing ballistic helmets, body armor and carrying radio equipment and military-grade backpacks.” (via public records)File:2021 storming of the United States Capitol DSC09254-2 (50820534063) (retouched).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

  • 8:17 a.m. - 

    Trump tweets that Pence should “send” votes “back to the States.” (via the Washington Post)

  • 8:30 a.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller reviews the Department of Defense’s plan to support law enforcement agencies and requested an exercise regarding defense contingency response options.

  • 8:51 – 9:47 a.m. - 

    8:51 a.m.: The Secret Service sends an alert that there are more than 10,000 people in line at the Ellipse, where President Trump is scheduled to speak at a rally at 11 a.m. (via CBS News)


    9 a.m. (approx.): Park Police are overrun by a mob of Trump supporters at the Washington Monument. (via Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington)


    9:01 a.m.: Vice President Mike Pence meets with aides at his Naval Observatory residence to finalize a letter to members of Congress communicating his intention to follow the constitutionally set laws while certifying the election. (via the Washington Post)


    9:02 a.m.: Employees of D.C.’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency position themselves in “mobile situational awareness teams” from the White House to the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)


    9:45 a.m.: Park Police report that 500 to 800 individuals are gathered at the Lincoln Memorial. (via Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington)


    9:45 a.m.: A Park Police officer reports of a man with a pitchfork at the Washington Monument. (via Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington)

  • 10:19 a.m. - 

    Michael Sherwin, the acting U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, sends D.C. arrest data from the previous night to acting Deputy Attorney General Richard Donoghue and others. Sherwin later forwards this to acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen. (via public records)

  • 10:20 a.m. - 

    DOJ Chief of Staff John Moran has a 4-minute call with DOJ public affairs official Marc Raimondi. (via public records)

     

  • 10:30 a.m. - 

    Somewhere between 25,000 and 30,000 people are at the Ellipse, according to a Capitol Police update that also noted rally organizers planned to march to the Capitol after Trump speech. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report) File:2021 storming of the United States Capitol 09 (cropped).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

  • 10:32 a.m. - 

    National Park Service official Lisa Mendelson-Ielmini has a 25-minute call with NPS Comptroller Jessica Brown. (via public records)

  • 10:41 a.m. - 

    D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services request a unit to help “navigate crowds” near downtown Washington, D.C. (via CBS News)

  • 10:46 a.m. - 

    Acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen has a 9-minute call with White House lawyer Eric Herschmann. (via public records)

    Acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen responds to Michael Sherwin, writing, “Thanks. Any additional insights into crowds/hotel bookings?” Sherwin responds,  “All estimates are still trending under 10,000 — I’ll continue to push you updates throughout the day.” (via public records)

  • 10:47 a.m. - 

    Richard DonoghueActing Deputy Attorney General Richard Donoghue receives a voicemail from Special Counsel John Durham. (via public records)

  • 10:55 a.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with White House Counsel Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 10:59 – 11 a.m. - 

    10:59 a.m.: Police recover two firearms from an unattended vehicle north of the National Mall. (via the Washington Post)

     

    11 a.m.: Capitol Police is aware of a “large crowd” around the Capitol building, including a group of approximately 200 Proud Boys. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

  • 11:01 a.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen receives a call from Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 11:04 a.m. - 

    DOJ Chief of Staff John Moran has a 2-minute call with Jarad Hodes, counsel to the deputy attorney general. (via public records)

  • 11:11 – 11:27 a.m. - 

    11:11 a.m.: Police find a vehicle near L’Enfant Plaza with a rifle and scope in view. (via the Washington Post)

     

    11:27 a.m.: Capitol Police investigate a tweet alleging that a militia is being formed on Capitol Hill. (via the Washington Post)

  • 11:29 a.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with Jeffrey Wall, acting solicitor general. (via public records)

  • 11:30 a.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller participates in table-top exercise regarding Defense Department contingency response options.

  • 11:35 a.m. (approx.) - 

    MPD responds to reports of a man with a rifle at 15th Street and Constitution Ave. (via public records)

  • 11:39 a.m. - 

    Donald Trump departs the White House by motorcade to head to the Ellipse. (via the Washington Post)

  • 11:51 a.m. - 

    John Moran has a 1-minute call with Associate Deputy Attorney General Christopher Grieco. (via public records)

  • 11:57 a.m. - 

    Donald Trump begins speaking at the Ellipse. (via the Washington Post)

  • 11:59 a.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with Jeffrey Wall, acting solicitor general. (via public records)

8:06 a.m.8:17 a.m.8:30 a.m.8:51 – 9:47 a.m.10:19 a.m.10:20 a.m.10:30 a.m.10:32 a.m.10:41 a.m.10:46 a.m.10:47 a.m.10:55 a.m.10:59 – 11 a.m.11:01 a.m.11:04 a.m.11:11 – 11:27 a.m.11:29 a.m.11:30 a.m.11:35 a.m. (approx.)11:39 a.m.11:51 a.m.11:57 a.m.11:59 a.m.
11:59 AM

12 – 12:59 p.m.

Trump began speaking to supporters at the Ellipse around noon. Within the next hour, Capitol Police report a Taser having been fired near the Capitol, and the Park Police arrested an individual in possession of a rifle near Capitol grounds.

12:00 PM

  • 12 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump addresses supporters, urging them to go to the Capitol to demonstrate “peacefully” while also telling them, “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a country anymore.” (via CBS News)File:DC Capitol Storming IMG 7942.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

  • 12:03 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with White House Counsel Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 12:20 p.m. - 

    Faron Paramore, assistant director in the Office of Strategic Intelligence and Information, emails Kimberly Cheatle, assistant director in the Office of Protective Operations, and Ronald Rowe, assistant director in the Office of Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs, saying, “Watching the POTUS speech on tv. POTUS just said that he is going to the U.S. Capitol to ‘watch’ the vote. Do we think this is really true??? Or just talk???” Just over an hour later, at 1:33 p.m., Cheatle responds: “He said it, but not going, to our knowledge.” (via public records)

  • 12:29  - 

    12:29 p.m.: A Capitol Police officer reports hearing a Taser weapon fired near the Senate, (via the Washington Post)

  • 12:30 pm - 

    Rosen12:30 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen is scheduled to have a phone call with acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 12:33 p.m. - 12:36 p.m. - 

    12:33 p.m.: Park Police report that they detained a person with a rifle on 17th Street near the WWII Memorial. (via the Washington Post)

     

    12:36 p.m.: Vice President Mike Pence arrives at the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)

  • 12:44 – 12:48 p.m. - 

    12:44 p.m.: Capitol Police officers and agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are dispatched to investigate reports of a pipe bomb with a timer found outside the Republican National Committee headquarters and suspicious packages at the Supreme Court and near the Democratic National Committee headquarters. (via the Washington Post)

     

    12:45 p.m.: Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund calls House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    12:46 p.m.: Chief Sund calls Senate Sergeant at Arms Michael Stenger. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    12:46 p.m.: Capitol Police begin executing protocols to keep the peace. (via the Washington Post)

     

    12:48 p.m.: Chief Sund texts Michael Stenger, “FYI we’re running a concerning suspicious package over by the Republican club by the S. Capitol St. metro.” (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

  • 12:53 p.m. - 

    DOJ Chief of Staff John Moran has an 11-minute call with DOJ official Gene Hamilton. (via public records)

  • 12:55 – 12:58 p.m. - 

    12:55 p.m.: Capitol Police directs all available units to the front of the Capitol, and officers inside are instructed to lock some doors. (via the Washington Post)

     

    12:58 p.m.: Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund calls House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving to request an emergency declaration and National Guard assistance. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

12 p.m.12:03 p.m.12:20 p.m.12:29 12:30 pm12:33 p.m. - 12:36 p.m.12:44 – 12:48 p.m.12:53 p.m.12:55 – 12:58 p.m.
12:59 PM

1 – 1:59 p.m.

As Trump concluded his remarks, protesters made their way to the Capitol and some broke through the Capitol Police’s outer perimeter, prompting the Capitol Police to order a lockdown of the Capitol building. Rioters continued to push past barricades, climbing the Capitol stairs, scaling the scaffolding, and breaching the Upper West Terrace of the Capitol. The chief of Capitol Police requested immediate assistance from the National Guard.

1:00 PM

  • 1 p.m. - 

    A Secret Service timeline of the vice president’s movements indicates that an individual (whose name is redacted in the records) “proceeds to Senate Chamber/Floor.” (via public records)

  • 1 - 1:03 p.m. - 

    1 p.m.: A Capitol Police inspector orders a lockdown of the Capitol building. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1 p.m.: The Joint Session of Congress begins. (via the Washington Post)

     

    1:01 p.m.: Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund requests assistance from the U.S. Secret Service. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:03 p.m.: Capitol Police find an “unoccupied red pickup truck with Alabama tags containing a trove of weapons, including an M4 carbine assault rifle, loaded magazines of ammunition, and components to make 11 molotov cocktails.” (via the Washington Post)

     

  • 1:05 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller receives open-source reports of the mob moving closer to the Capitol.

  • 1:05 p.m. - 

    Senate Sergeant at Arms Michael Stenger calls Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

  • 1:06 – 1:12 p.m. - 

    1:06 p.m.: Greg Jacob, counsel to the vice president, emails attorney John Eastman to tell him that “the advice provided has, whether intended to or not, functioned as a serpent in the ear of the President of the United States.” (via the Washington Post)

     

    1:07 p.m.: Steven Sund texts Jennifer Hemingway, deputy sergeant at arms of the Senate, “just briefed Stenger we had a breach of the fence line on the west front by several thousand protestors.” (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:10 p.m.: President Trump concludes his speech at the Ellipse. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:12 p.m.: The two chambers separate and begin to debate objections to the certification of Arizona’s Electoral College votes. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

  • 1:11 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen emails acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin, “Can you give me a quick call on my cell?” (via public records)

  • 1:15 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller is “informed of demonstrators beginning to march to U.S. Capitol.” (via the House Committee on Oversight and Reform)

  • 1:15 p.m. - 

    1:15 p.m.: A Secret Service timeline of the vice president’s movements indicates that an individual (whose name is redacted in the records) “proceeds to House Chamber/Floor,” then “proceeds back to Senate Chamber/Floor,” then “proceeds to [redacted].” (via public records)

  • 1:17 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 7-minute call with Michael Sherwin, acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. (via public records)

  • 1:19 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump’s motorcade returns to the White House (via Politifact)

  • 1:20 – 1:30 p.m. - 

    1:20 p.m.: Donald Trump returns to the White House. (via the Washington Post)

     

    1:21 p.m.: Senate Sergeant at Arms Michael Stenger calls Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:25 p.m.: Donald Trump heads to the White House dining room after the rally. (via Select Committee)

     

    1:28 p.m.: Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund calls House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:30 p.m.: Protesters overcome police on the back steps of the Capitol. (via NPR)

     

  • 1:34 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy has a call with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. Bowser requests immediate assistance.

  • 1:34 – 1:45 p.m. - 

    1:34 p.m.: Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund calls House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:35 p.m.: During Senate deliberations, Sen. Mitch McConnell warns that refusing to certify the results of the presidential election under false pretenses would push American democracy into a “death spiral.” (via the Wall Street Journal)

     

    1:39 p.m.: Senate Sergeant at Arms Michael Stenger calls Chief Sund. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:39 p.m.: Donald Trump has a 4-minute call with Rudy Giuliani. (via Select Committee)

     

    1:40 p.m.: A group of protesters push up the left side of the Capitol’s west front stairs while dozens of others begin climbing the scaffolding. (via the Wall Street Journal)

     

    1:45 p.m.: Chief Sund calls Paul Irving. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:45 p.m.: Rioters head for the Senate side of the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)

  • 1:48 p.m. - 

    Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund requests support from Thomas Sullivan, the chief of the Secret Service Uniformed Division. (via public records)

  • 1:49 p.m. - 

    Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund has a call with Maj. Gen. William Walker. He requests immediate assistance.

  • 1:49 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump tweets a video of his speech at the rally at the Ellipse. (via NPR)

  • 1:49 - 1:59 p.m. - 

    1:49 p.m.: Rioters breach the Upper West Terrace of the Capitol. The Metropolitan Police Department declares a riot at the Capitol. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:49 p.m.: Chief Sund calls Maj. Gen. Walker. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    1:51 p.m.: Chief Sund activates the Capitol Police’s mutual aid agreement with National Capital Region law enforcement entities. (via the Wall Street Journal)

     

    1:59 p.m.: The first rioters reach the Capitol and attempt to break inside through doors and windows. (via the Washington Post)

1 p.m.1 - 1:03 p.m.1:05 p.m.1:05 p.m.1:06 – 1:12 p.m.1:11 p.m.1:15 p.m.1:15 p.m.1:17 p.m.1:19 p.m.1:20 – 1:30 p.m.1:34 p.m.1:34 – 1:45 p.m.1:48 p.m.1:49 p.m.1:49 p.m.1:49 - 1:59 p.m.
1:59 PM

Back to Top 

2 – 2:59 p.m.

The doors of the Capitol were breached. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman redirected rioters from the Senate doors while the House entered a recess and Pence was evacuated to a secure location. Within the next hour, two members of the crowd died. The chief of Capitol Police requested assistance from the National Guard multiple times, who were advised to stand by.

2:00 PM

  • 2:00 – 2:12 p.m. - 

    2 p.m.: Yogananda Pittman, the Capitol Police’s assistant chief for protective and intelligence operations,  orders a lockdown of the Capitol building. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:01 p.m.: Chief Sund calls House Sergeant at Arms Paul Irving. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:03 p.m.: Donald Trump has an 8-minute call with Rudy Giuliani. (via Select Committee)

     

    2:05 p.m.: Protester Kevin Greeson dies after suffering a heart attack outside the building. (via the Washington Post)

     

    2:06 p.m.: Rioters continue to push toward the building, reaching the Rotunda steps. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:07 p.m.: Chief Sund calls Sergeant at Arms Irving, who approves Sund’s request for National Guard support. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:08 p.m.: Rioters reach the House Plaza. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:08 p.m.: Chief Sund calls Senate Sergeant at Arms Michael Stenger. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:10 p.m.: Rioters breach the final barricade on the West Front and northwest side of the Capitol, and quickly approach an entrance near the Senate chamber. Paul Irving and Michael Stenger issue an emergency declaration on behalf of the Capitol Police Board and formally approve a request for National Guard assistance. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:11 p.m.: Chief Sund contacts Maj. Gen. Walker “to request immediate assistance.” (via the House Committee on Oversight and Reform)

     

    2:11 p.m.: The first rioters gain access to the building. (via the Washington Post)

     

    2:12 p.m.: Sen. Mitt Romney encounters Capitol Police officer Eugene Goodman running down a second-floor hallway outside the Senate chamber. Goodman tells him that rioters are near and he is safer inside. Romney returns to the Senate floor. (via the Washington Post)

    File:DC Capitol Storming IMG 7965.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

  • 2:13 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund requests 200 National Guard personnel and a “QRF” (quick reaction force) to support the Capitol Police. (via public records)

  • 2:13 p.m. - 

    The Senate enters recess. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    Mike Pence is removed by his Secret Service detail and rushed through a side door to his nearby ceremonial office, along with his family members. His detail stands by in the office for 13 minutes. (via Washington Post and Select Committee)

     

    A National Security Council chat log states that rioters are “starting to kick in the windows at the capitol. 2 windows have been kicked in.” (via Select Committee)

  • 2:14 p.m. - 

    Capitol Police officer Eugene Goodman redirects rioters away from the Senate chamber. (via the Washington Post)

     

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy instructs Maj. Gen. William Walker to “standby.” (via the House Committee on Oversight and Reform and public records)

  • 2:15 p.m. - 

    2:14 p.m.: A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “CG told to stand by” by the secretary of the Army.

     

    2:15 p.m.: The doors of the Capitol “have been breached,” the National Guard timeline says. (via public records)

  • 2:15 – 2:18 p.m. - 

    2:15 p.m.: An order to lock down the House and Senate chambers is issued. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:16 p.m.: Officer distress calls come through Capitol Police Capt. Carneysha Mendoza’s radio. (via the Washington Post)

     

    2:18 p.m.: The House declares a brief recess. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

  • 2:19 p.m. - 

    2:19 p.m.: Maj. Gen. Walker emails Secretary McCarthy, “Chief Steve Sund advised that the US Capital has been breached and they need immediate assistance [of] at least 200 guardsmen. Chief Sund advised that a formal letter requesting support is forthcoming.” (via public records)

  • 2:19 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates that “CG” was sending an email to the secretary of the Army, Ryan McCarthy. (via public records)

  • 2:20 p.m. - 

    The National Guard is advised by Chris Rodriguez, the director of D.C.’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, that windows are being broken at the Capitol. (via public records)

  • 2:20 p.m. - 

    A National Security Council chat log states that the “Second Floor and Senate Door has now been breached.” (via Select Committee)

  • 2:20 p.m. - 

    The House adjourns. (via the Washington Post)

  • 2:21 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “[Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy] email sent another.” (via public records)

  • 2:22 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy has a phone call with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, other top city officials, and MPD leadership to discuss the situation and to request additional D.C. National Guard support.

  • 2:24 p.m. - 

    MPD civil disturbance units are deployed to the Capitol. (via public records)

  • 2:24 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump tweets: “Mike Pence didn’t have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution, giving States a chance to certify a corrected set of facts, not the fraudulent or inaccurate ones which they were asked to previously certify. USA demands the truth!” (via Washington Post)

    A National Security Council chat log refers to “explosions on the rotunda steps.” (via Select Committee)

  • 2:26 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump calls Sen. Mike Lee attempting to reach Sen. Tommy Tuberville. Mike Lee hands the phone to Tuberville, who tells Donald Trump that Mike Pence has been evacuated from the Senate chamber. (via the Washington Post and CBS and the Associated Press)

  • 2:25 – 2:26 p.m. - 

    2:25 p.m.: Ryan McCarthy speaks to Maj. Gen. William Walker, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and D.C. city officials on a conference call. According to a congressional fact sheet, he directs Walker “to prepare to move the [Quick Reaction Force] to the Capitol Building and support the USCP, but to remain at the Armory until he confirmed approval from Acting [Secretary Miller].” Ryan McCarthy leaves the room to speak to Christopher Miller. (via the House Committee on Oversight and Reform)

     

    2:25 p.m.: Rioters in the building open the east-side doors of the Capitol Rotunda, letting in more people. At the same time, one floor below, rioters push through police and enter the building. House members are told to be prepared to use gas masks. (via the Wall Street Journal)

     

    2:26 p.m.: Mike Pence is evacuated to a secure location. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 2:26 p.m. - 

    Ken Cuccinelli, the senior official performing the duties of deputy DHS secretary, sends an email to Joint Interagency Task Force South Director Christopher Tomney asking for a link to get into the virtual situation room. (via public records)

  • 2:27 p.m. - 

    MPD Chief Robert Contee III and Chris Rodriguez, the director of D.C.’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, request to talk to Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy. (via public records)

  • 2:27 p.m. - 

    2:27 p.m.: Mike Pence and his security detail argue about leaving the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)

     

    2:28 p.m.: Attorney John Eastman emails counsel to the vice president Greg Jacob saying Pence’s failure to “do what was necessary to allow this to be aired in a public way” was to blame for the riot. (via the Washington Post)

  • 2:29 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with the acting chief of the Counterterrorism Unit in the National Security Division. (via public records)

  • 2:30 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen receives a voicemail from Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 2:30 – 2:31 p.m. - 

    2:30 p.m. (approx.): During a teleconference with Pentagon officials and D.C. officials, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, Christopher Rodriguez, and Robert Contee III, Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund “plead[s]” for immediate backup (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

     

    2:31 p.m.: The House adjourns and the Senate chamber is evacuated. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 2:30 p.m. - 

     

    Christopher Miller, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Ryan McCarthy meet to discuss the requests of the Capitol Police and Mayor Muriel Bowser.

  • 2:31 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates that officials “called Bridge number” for Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund, MPD Chief Robert Contee III, and Chief of the Secret Service Uniformed Division Thomas Sullivan. (via public records)

  • 2:33 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 3-minute call with Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 2:35 p.m. - 

    A group of Oath Keepers dressed in combat gear make their way up the Capitol steps. (via CBS News)

  • 2:36 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund requests National Guard assistance, listing the location of New Jersey Ave. and Louisiana Ave. NW. (via public records)

  • 2:37 p.m. - 

    Gen. Charles Flynn and Lt. Gen. Walter Piatt advised the D.C. Guard to “take over other points” to help relieve law enforcement officers to go to the Capitol. (via public records and the House Committee on Oversight and Reform)

  • 2:38 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with DOJ official Christopher Michel and receives a call from the head of DOJ’s Counterterrorism Section. (via public records)

  • 2:38 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump tweets: “Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!” Former Deputy White House Press Secretary Sarah Matthews later testified that Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany had told her that Trump hadn’t wanted to include the word “peace” in the tweet. (via the Washington Post and Select Committee)

    “Stop the Steal” organizer Ali Alexander tells another organizer, “POTUS is not ignorant of what his words would do.”     (via Select Committee)

     

  • 2:39 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Physical force used on officers, [Sund] advised.” (via public records)

  • 2:40 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes that Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund has requested National Guard assistance. (via public records)

  • 2:40 p.m. - 

    Oath Keepers forcibly enter the Capitol. (via CBS News)

  • 2:41 p.m. - 

    Gen. Flynn (likely Gen. Charles Flynn) advises the National Guard to stand by. (via public records)

  • 2:42 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes the address of 119 V St. (via public records)

  • 2:42 p.m. - 

    Rioters break windows of doors on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol. (via CBS News)

  • 2:43 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Advised that National Guard did not deny request just standing by need plan.” (via public records)

  • 2:44 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates that shots were fired. (via public records)

  • 2:44 p.m. - 

    A Capitol Police officer fatally shoots Ashli Babbitt as she attempts to climb through a broken window into the Speaker’s Lobby adjacent to the House chamber. (via CBS News)

  • 2:44 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with the acting Secretary Christopher Miller. (via public records)

  • 2:45 p.m. - 

    Rioters enter the Senate chamber. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 2:47 p.m. - 

    Mayor Muriel Bowser requests the assistance of the Virginia and Maryland National Guards. (via public records)

  • 2:48 PM - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Status of assets recall 100 SMs.” (via public records)

  • 2:48 p.m. - 

    An assistant in the Office of the Deputy Attorney General emails Jeffrey Rosen and acting Richard Donoghue, “Department of Defense is on line 1. They are asking you to join a conversation currently happening with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and head of the army regarding current news.” (via public records)

  • 2:50 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline reads: “City wide [illegible] in effect 15:10.” (via public records)

  • 2:51 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates that shots had been fired. (via public records)

  • 2:51 p.m. - 

    Rioters are seen in the Senate chamber. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 2:52 p.m. - 

    According to a handwritten National Guard timeline, the Secret Service Uniformed Division is “advised [and] sending officers over.” (via public records)

  • 2:52 p.m. - 

    The first FBI SWAT teams arrive at the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)

  • 2:53 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump Jr. texts Mark Meadows, “He’s got to condemn this shit ASAP. The Capitol Police tweet is not enough.” (via Select Committee)

  • 2:53 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “advised to start coordinating sending C.P., advising outer perimeter of C.P.” (via public records)

  • 2:55 p.m. - 

    John Moran receives a call from Assistant Attorney General for Administration Lee Loftus. (via public records)

  • 2:57 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 4-minute call with Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 2:58 p.m. - 

    Capitol Police are extracting and securing congressional staff, including those who have barricaded themselves in offices. (via CBS News)

  • 2:59 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with Donald Washington, the director of the U.S. Marshals Service. (via public records)

2:00 – 2:12 p.m.2:13 p.m.2:13 p.m.2:14 p.m.2:15 p.m.2:15 – 2:18 p.m.2:19 p.m.2:19 p.m.2:20 p.m.2:20 p.m.2:20 p.m.2:21 p.m.2:22 p.m.2:24 p.m.2:24 p.m.2:26 p.m.2:25 – 2:26 p.m.2:26 p.m.2:27 p.m.2:27 p.m.2:29 p.m.2:30 p.m.2:30 – 2:31 p.m.2:30 p.m.2:31 p.m.2:33 p.m.2:35 p.m.2:36 p.m.2:37 p.m.2:38 p.m.2:38 p.m.2:39 p.m.2:40 p.m.2:40 p.m.2:41 p.m.2:42 p.m.2:42 p.m.2:43 p.m.2:44 p.m.2:44 p.m.2:44 p.m.2:45 p.m.2:47 p.m.2:48 PM2:48 p.m.2:50 p.m.2:51 p.m.2:51 p.m.2:52 p.m.2:52 p.m.2:53 p.m.2:53 p.m.2:55 p.m.2:57 p.m.2:58 p.m.2:59 p.m.
2:59 PM

 

3 – 3:59 p.m.

Senior Pentagon officials begin the activation of the D.C. National Guard to support the local police. Elected officials from both parties, as well as close allies of the president, called upon Trump to condemn the rioters’ actions.

3:00 PM

  • 3:01 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 5-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

  • 3:04 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller provides verbal approval for the full activation of the D.C. National Guard in support of MPD. He is advised by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Department of Defense’s general counsel, the chief of the National Guard Bureau (Daniel Hokanson), the secretary of the Army (Ryan McCarthy), and the Army chief of staff of the Army (James McConville). McCarthy directs the D.C. National Guard to initiate movement and full mobilization.

  • 3:08 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 3-minute call with acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 3:10 p.m. - 

    3:10 p.m.: A handwritten National Guard timeline notes “TCP adjustment.” (via public records)

  • 3:11 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says Defense Secretary Christopher Miller mobilizes the D.C. National Guard. (via public records)

  • 3:12 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Continuity of [redacted]” and “COOP plan in place.” (via public records)

  • 3:13 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Congress going [redacted] — Staff numbers and where.” (via public records)

  • 3:13 p.m. - 

    DOJ Chief of Staff John Moran emails Jeffrey Rosen and Richard Donoghue, saying Rosen may receive calls from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Mitch McConnell, per McConnell’s chief counsel. (via public records)

  • 3:15 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says Gen. Charles Flynn “advised to make plan to start sending Guard units over for assistance But not to Capitol.” (via public records)

  • 3:15 p.m. - 

    Christopher Tomney, the director of the Joint Interagency Task Force South, sends Ken Cuccinelli, the senior official performing the duties of the deputy DHS secretary, an email telling him that an Operations Deputies call was set for 3:30 p.m. (via public records)

  • 3:15 p.m. - 

    Ivanka Trump tweets, then deletes a few minutes later, “American Patriots – any security breach or disrespect to our law enforcement is unacceptable. The violence must stop immediately. Please be peaceful.” (via the Washington Post)

  • 3:19 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy has a call with Sen. Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi about Mayor Muriel Bowser’s request. McCarthy explains that Christopher Miller already approved full D.C. National Guard mobilization.

  • 3:20 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser calls the Maryland and Virginia National Guard for assistance. (via public records)

  • 3:22 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates that the Defense Department “has reserved release authority for this event.” (via public records)

  • 3:24 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 4-minute call with Timothy Shea, the acting administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration. (via public records)

  • 3:25 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes that DHS plans to send a liaison officer to the Operations Center. (via public records)

  • 3:26 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy has a phone call with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee III.

  • 3:27 p.m. - 

    A quick reaction force is requested, according to a handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 3:28 p.m. - 

    A National Guard quick reaction force is “ready to deploy,” according to a handwritten National Guard timeline, which also says “DC NO SMs.” (via public records)

  • 3:28 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 4-minute call with acting ATF Director Regina Lombardo. (via public records)

  • 3:30 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 4-minute call with FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich. (via public records)

  • 3:30 p.m. - 

    The DHS director of Operations Coordination schedules a conference call to discuss law enforcement support for the Capitol Police. (via public records)

  • 3:31 p.m. - 

    Gen. Charles Flynn recommends REDCON-1, according to a handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 3:35 p.m. - 

    A handwritten timeline from the National Guard indicates that it is “establishing NOCK.” (via public records)

  • 3:36 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “establish lead agency.” (via public records)

  • 3:36 p.m. - 

    White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany tweets that Trump has ordered the National Guard to the Capitol. (via Twitter)

  • 3:37 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call from White House lawyer Eric Herschmann. (via public records)

  • 3:39 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Chief going on the road to meet FBI.” (via public records)

  • 3:40 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Chief advised cleared by federal law enforcement.” (via public records)

  • 3:42 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Northcom title 10 standing by not to be used.” (via public records)

  • 3:44 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has an 11-minute call with a White House phone number. (via public records)

  • 3:45 p.m. - 

    National Guard Bureau Chief Daniel Hokanson has calls with adjutant generals from D.C., Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. (via public records)

  • 3:46 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Congress going to [redacted] COOP plan.” (via public records)

  • 3:46 p.m - 

    The chief of the National Guard Bureau, Daniel Hokanson, has a call with the adjutant general of Virginia to discuss support in Washington, D.C. The general says that the governor had ordered mobilization of forces at 3:32 p.m..

  • 3:48 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy departs the Pentagon for the Metropolitan Police Department headquarters.

  • 3:49 p.m. - 

    Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Chuck Schumer issue a joint statement calling on Trump to demand that protesters leave the Capitol and its grounds immediately. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 3:50 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy is at the FBI’s Washington Field Office, according to a handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 3:52 p.m. - 

    According to a handwritten National Guard timeline, 650 Virginia guardsmen “under SFID” are heading to the Capitol. (via public records)

  • 3:55 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says that all federal law enforcement officers are “recalled.” (via public records)

  • 3:55 p.m. - 

    The chief of the National Guard Bureau, Daniel Hokanson, has a phone call with Adjutant General of Maryland Timothy Gowen to discuss support in the capital. Gowen says that the governor had ordered the mobilization of the rapid response force at 3:47 p.m.

  • 3:57 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy heads to the Metropolitan Police Department, according to the handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 3:58 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 6-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

3:01 p.m.3:04 p.m.3:08 p.m.3:10 p.m.3:11 p.m.3:12 p.m.3:13 p.m.3:13 p.m.3:15 p.m.3:15 p.m.3:15 p.m.3:19 p.m.3:20 p.m.3:22 p.m.3:24 p.m.3:25 p.m.3:26 p.m.3:27 p.m.3:28 p.m.3:28 p.m.3:30 p.m.3:30 p.m.3:31 p.m.3:35 p.m.3:36 p.m.3:36 p.m.3:37 p.m.3:39 p.m.3:40 p.m.3:42 p.m.3:44 p.m.3:45 p.m.3:46 p.m.3:46 p.m3:48 p.m.3:49 p.m.3:50 p.m.3:52 p.m.3:55 p.m.3:55 p.m.3:57 p.m.3:58 p.m.
3:59 PM

4 – 4:59 p.m.

The Army is given authorization to deploy the D.C. National Guard to assist at the Capitol. Joe Biden speaks on the day’s violence from Delaware. In a video, Trump repeated his lie that the 2020 election was “stolen” and asked the rioters — whom he called “very special” — to go home.

4:00 PM

  • 4:01 p.m. - 

    An official from the DOJ National Security Division emails Richard Donoghue and FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich, saying, “Call Secretary McCarthy…he has not released the DCNG to assist. They are all parked [redacted].” (via public records)

  • 4:00 p.m. - 

    Acting ATF Director Regina Lombardo emails Richard Donoghue to tell him they “are in the process of drafting up a brief for you on our resources deployed at the capital.” (via public records)

  • 4 p.m. - 

    4 p.m.: Rioters clash with police while trying to push through a doorway at the north entrance to the Capitol. (via the Wall Street Journal)

    4:03 p.m.: Donald Trump goes to the Rose Garden to film a video message to the rioters. (via Select Committee)

    4:05 p.m.: President-elect Joe Biden appears on television from Delaware. (via the Washington Post)

  • 4:06 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 4-minute call with the head of DOJ’s Counterterrorism Section. (via public records)

  • 4:10 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy arrives at the Metropolitan Police Department headquarters.

  • 4:13 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has an 8-minute call with Steven Engel, the assistant attorney general for the Office of Legal Counsel. (via public records)

  • 4:17 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump releases a video on social media urging rioters to go home, but again claims the election was “stolen.” (via CBS News)

  • 4:18 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Ryan McCarthy, and National Guard Bureau Chief Daniel Hokanson discuss the availability of National Guard forces from other states in the region. Miller gives vocal approval for out-of-state National Guard forces to be prepared to deploy to D.C.

  • 4:19 p.m. - 

    Drug Enforcement Administration Chief Counsel Dayle Elieson emails Associate Deputy AG Bradley Weinsheimer (the message is redacted); Weinsheimer responds, then forwards the chain to Richard Donoghue and John Moran at 4:23 p.m. (via public records)

  • 4:20 p.m. - 

    According to a handwritten National Guard timeline, Ryan McCarthy “advised to plan and prepare to transition to TCP and be placed around other federal buildings/monuments. Create outer perimeter around other federal places.” (via public records)

  • 4:23 p.m. - 

    Army Inspector General Leslie Smith is advised to start getting written orders, according to the handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 4:26 p.m - 

    The National Guard is advised that Maryland and Virginia National Guards are on standby, and that six people including one officer have been injured. (via public records)

  • 4:27 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue emails Jeffrey Rosen to tell him that, per the secretary of the Army, the National Guard was headed to the Capitol “now.” (via public records)

  • 4:27 p.m. - 

    4:27 p.m.: A wave of rioters attack police who are standing guard inside the Capitol’s West Terrace archway. (via the Washington Post)

     

    4:28 p.m.: Capitol Police secure the Senate and House chambers, along with the basement, subways, first floor, and crypts. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

  • 4:29 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline indicates “Gen Flynn” asks for an “outer cordon at Capitol.” (via public records)

  • 4:30 p.m. - 

    While guarding an entrance on the west side of the Capitol, MPD Officer Daniel Hodges is crushed in a doorway and struck by rioters. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 4:31 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 3-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

  • 4:32 p.m. - 

    According to a handwritten National Guard timeline, “Gen Pyatt” (likely Lt. Gen. Walter Piatt) is “advised about [illegible] order.” (via public records)

  • 4:32 p.m. - 

    Christopher Miller provides verbal authorization to re-mission the D.C. National Guard to conduct perimeter and
    clearance operations in support of the Capitol Police. Ryan McCarthy is to provide public notification of support.

  • 4:32 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy receives approval from Secretary Miller to deploy the D.C. National Guard to the Capitol, according to later congressional testimony from a Defense Department official. (via the Washington Post)

  • 4:34 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 7-minute call with a White House phone number. (via public records)

  • 4:35 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy authorizes Maj. Gen. William Walker to depart the D.C. Armory for the Capitol. In later congressional testimony, Walker says that he did not receive authorization to depart the Armory until 5:08 p.m. (via U.S. Senate committee staff report)

  • 4:36 p.m. - 

    John Moran has a 4-minute call with Kira Antell, senior counselor in the Office of Legislative Affairs. (via public records)

  • 4:37 p.m. - 

    The National Guard is advised to send 150 guardsmen to establish a perimeter on D Street and 1st Street. (via public records)

  • 4:38 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy and Mayor Muriel Bowser hold a news conference, as referenced in a handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 4:39 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline notes that Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam is “sending 200 state troopers.” (via public records)

  • 4:40 p.m. - 

    Ryan McCarthy has a call with Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who says he plans to send Maryland National Guard troops to D.C., with expected arrival on Jan. 7.

  • 4:41 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 3-minute call with DOJ official Marc Raimondi. (via public records)

  • 4:42 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “Police left to capitol, SMs moved to [collapse] 3 TCPs due to safety.” (via public records)

  • 4:45 p.m. - 

    Attorney John Eastman writes to Pence’s chief counsel Greg Jacob insisting that he had told Trump that the vice president could not unilaterally determine the outcome of the Electoral College vote. “But you know him,” Eastman wrote about Trump. “Once he gets something in his head, it is hard to get him to change course.” (via the Washington Post)

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller joins a call with congressional leaders including Sens. Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell. Miller says that the earliest certification could resume is in 4 to 5 hours. (via Select Committee)

  • 4:46 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says that “CG is checking” to see whether the D.C. Metro will close. (via public records)

  • 4:47 p.m. - 

    D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser hosts a news conference. (via public records)

  • 4:48 p.m. - 

    Trump supporters who were pushed out of the Capitol run at journalists outside of the Senate, then smash the journalists’ abandoned equipment. (via the Wall Street Journal)

  • 4:52 p.m. - 

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy advises “3 PM mobilized DC,” according to a handwritten National Guard timeline. (via public records)

  • 4:53 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Marc Raimondi. (via public records)

4:01 p.m.4:00 p.m.4 p.m.4:06 p.m.4:10 p.m.4:13 p.m.4:17 p.m.4:18 p.m.4:19 p.m.4:20 p.m.4:23 p.m.4:26 p.m4:27 p.m.4:27 p.m.4:29 p.m.4:30 p.m.4:31 p.m.4:32 p.m.4:32 p.m.4:32 p.m.4:34 p.m.4:35 p.m.4:36 p.m.4:37 p.m.4:38 p.m.4:39 p.m.4:40 p.m.4:41 p.m.4:42 p.m.4:45 p.m.4:46 p.m.4:47 p.m.4:48 p.m.4:52 p.m.4:53 p.m.
4:59 PM

5 – 6:59 p.m.

National Guard troops finally arrive to help secure the Capitol at 5:40 p.m. Top Justice Department officials have multiple calls with each other and White House lawyers.

5:00 PM

  • 5 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with the acting secretary of defense, Christopher Miller. (via public records)

  • 5:02 p.m. - 

    154 D.C. National Guard troops depart from the D.C. Armory in support of the Capitol Police.

  • 5:05 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 5:08 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen receives a call from DOJ official Marc Raimondi. (via public records)

  • 5:09 p.m. - 

    A handwritten National Guard timeline says, “order received, going to meet chief of [Capitol Police].” (via public records)

  • 5:16 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 1-minute call with Richard Donoghue; Pat Cipollone calls Donoghue. (via public records)

  • 5:17 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen emails Richard Donoghue and David Bowdich asking them to join a 6 p.m. call with federal partners. (via public records)

  • 5:20 p.m. - 

     A handwritten National Guard timeline notes “[Quick Reaction Force] arrives at Capitol.” (via public records)

  • 5:30 – 5:32 p.m. - 

    5:30 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Richard Donoghue; Pat Cipollone places a call to Donoghue. (via public records)

     

    5:31 p.m.: Pat Cipollone calls Jeffrey Rosen. (via public records)

     

    5:32 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 5:40 p.m. - 

    National Guard troops arrive to help secure the Capitol. (via the Washington Post)

  • 5:32 – 5:39 p.m. - 

    5:32 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Pat Cipollone.

     

    5:39 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 4-minute call with acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 5:43 p.m. - 

    Joint Interagency Task Force South Director Christopher Tomney emails Richard Donoghue asking to talk before the 6 p.m. principals call. (via public records)

  • 5:45 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller signs the formal authorization for out-of-state National Guard units to muster and gives voice approval for deployment in support of the Capitol Police.

  • 5:46 – 5:51 p.m. - 

    5:46 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 4-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

     

    5:49 p.m.: Richard Donoghue receives a call from the head of DOJ’s Counterterrorism Section. (via public records)

     

    5:51 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 5:54 p.m. - 

    National Park Service Deputy Director of Operations Shawn Benge has a 2-minute call with Susan Farinelli, acting NPS chief of staff. (via public records)

  • 5:56 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 33-minute call with a White House number. (via public records)

  • 6 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with “DoD et al.” (via public records)

  • 6 – 6:01 p.m. - 

    6 p.m.: The District of Columbia’s curfew goes into effect.

     

    6:01 p.m: Donald Trump sends a tweet telling supporters at the Capitol to “Go home with love & in peace.” (via the Washington Post)

  • 6:14 p.m. - 

    The Capitol Police, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the D.C. National Guard successfully establish a perimeter on the west side of the Capitol.

  • 6:27 p.m. - 

    Donald Trump leaves the dining room and heads to his residence for the night. (via Select Committee)

  • 6:29 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue receives a call from the head of DOJ’s Counterterrorism Section. (via public records)

  • 6:33 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 6:50 p.m. - 

    The Capitol Police give “all clear” for sweeps of the Capitol. (via public records)

  • 6:54 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

5 p.m.5:02 p.m.5:05 p.m.5:08 p.m.5:09 p.m.5:16 p.m.5:17 p.m.5:20 p.m.5:30 – 5:32 p.m.5:40 p.m.5:32 – 5:39 p.m.5:43 p.m.5:45 p.m.5:46 – 5:51 p.m.5:54 p.m.5:56 p.m.6 p.m.6 – 6:01 p.m.6:14 p.m.6:27 p.m.6:29 p.m.6:33 p.m.6:50 p.m.6:54 p.m.
6:59 PM

Back to Top 

7 – 9:59 p.m.

Trump attorney John Eastman continues to contact Pence, asking that he not certify the electoral college results.

7:00 PM

  • 7 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a call with the Defense Department, the House, the Senate, and vice president. (via public records)

  • 7:02 p.m. - 

    Rudy Giuliani calls Sen. Tommy Tuberville and leaves a voicemail pressuring him to delay the certification. (via Select Committee)

  • 7:10 p.m. - 

    According to a Secret Service timeline of Pence’s movements, “[name redacted] proceed[s] back to [redacted].” (via public records)

  • 7:20 p.m. - 

    7:20 p.m.: A person from the D.C. National Guard forwards Walker’s 2:19 p.m. email to Acting Secretary Miller and states, “Army has DCNG on stand down despite request for support.” (via public records)

  • 7:28 p.m. - 

    7:28 p.m.: An individual in the Army’s Office of the Chief Legislative Liaison sends an email to multiple Army officials, stating that Secretary McCarthy had “just joined phone call with VPOTUS, Secdef, CJCS, Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi and DoJ senior on the ground.” The email says that “DoJ led call” and listed the following updates: “Capitol clear, not fully secure”; ”minor property damage, nothing significant”; “there are enough personnel to guard perimeter”; and “8pm is time they want to get all back in the building. Should be feasible.” (via public records)

  • 7:36 p.m. - 

    Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller provides vocal approval to lease fences in support of the U.S. Capitol Police for security of the Capitol.

  • 7:38 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has an 11-minute call with Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 7:46 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 4-minute call with the head of DOJ’s Counterterrorism Section. (via public records)

  • 7:52 p.m. - 

    7:52 p.m.: Army Deputy Director of Operations, Readiness, and Mobilization Matthew Smith sends an email to Gen. Charles Flynn and others, informing Flynn about the Virginia and Maryland National Guard plans for the following day. (via public records)

  • 7:56 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with White House lawyer Eric Herschmann. (via public records)

  • 8 p.m. - 

    A timeline of the vice president’s movements says, “[redacted] proceeded to Senate Floor.” (via public records)

  • 8:03 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 5-minute call with Christopher Tomney, director of Joint Interagency Task Force South. (via public records)

  • 8:37 p.m. - 

    Jeffrey Rosen has a 6-minute call with Richard Donoghue. (via public records)

  • 8:17 p.m. - 

    Secret Service civil disturbance units are released from mutual aid assistance. (via public records)

  • 9 – 9:02 p.m. - 

    Around 9 p.m., John Eastman emails Pence to ask him not to certify the election results.

     

    9:02 p.m.: Pence gavels the House back into session. (via the Washington Post)

  • 9:09 p.m. - 

    9:09 p.m.: Jeffrey Rosen has a 2-minute call with Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 9:14 p..m. - 

    7:52 p.m.: Army Deputy Director of Operations, Readiness, and Mobilization Matthew Smith sends an email to Gen. Charles Flynn and others, informing Flynn about the Virginia and Maryland National Guard plans for the following day. (via public records)

  • 9:23 p.m. - 

    Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller calls Donald Trump and asks him to put out a statement Miller had drafted regarding the transfer of power. (via Select Committee)

  • 9:26 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has an 8-minute call with the head of the DOJ Counterterrorism Section. (via public records) 

  • 9:42 p.m. - 

    John Eastman writes to Pence aide Greg Jacob to ask again that Pence stop the certification. (via the Washington Post)

  • 9:47 p.m. - 

    Police K9 teams are released from their assignments. (via public records)

  • 9:52 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 2-minute call with Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

7 p.m.7:02 p.m.7:10 p.m.7:20 p.m.7:28 p.m.7:36 p.m.7:38 p.m.7:46 p.m.7:52 p.m.7:56 p.m.8 p.m.8:03 p.m.8:37 p.m.8:17 p.m.9 – 9:02 p.m.9:09 p.m.9:14 p..m.9:23 p.m.9:26 p.m.9:42 p.m.9:47 p.m.9:52 p.m.
9:59 PM

10 p.m. – 12 a.m.

The joint session resumes, and after midnight, Congress ultimately certifies Joe Biden’s win in the 2020 presidential election.

10:00 PM

  • 10:28 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue receives a voicemail from acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 10:30 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 3-minute call with Michael Sherwin. (via public records)

  • 10:37 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue receives a call from Christopher Tomney, director at Joint Interagency Task Force South. (via public records)

  • 10:40 p.m. - 

    Acting AG Jeffrey Rosen has a 6-minute call with White House counsel Pat Cipollone. (via public records)

  • 11:11 p.m. - 

    Richard Donoghue has a 6-minute call with White House lawyer Eric Herschmann. (via public records)

  • 11:32 p.m. - 

    The joint session resumes; hours later, Congress certifies the 2020 election results. (via NPR and the Washington Post)

10:28 p.m.10:30 p.m.10:37 p.m.10:40 p.m.11:11 p.m.11:32 p.m.
12:00 AM

Sources

The entries on this timeline were drawn from multiple primary source records obtained by American Oversight, as well public reporting by the media and official reports released by the Defense Department and various congressional committees. 

Each entry is color coded to indicate its source. In most cases, the source document is linked directly from the entry. Below is a more detailed explanation of the documents associated with each color. 

Justice Department (dark blue)
These entries are drawn primarily from detailed call logs released by the Justice Department (DOJ) to American Oversight in response to a FOIA request and litigation. The files document calls made and received by top department officials on Jan. 6, 2021, and they include a handwritten log of calls made by acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen. Additional entries come from a set of emails sent or received by senior DOJ officials relating to the events of Jan. 6. 

National Guard (yellow)
These entries are taken from public records that were obtained by American Oversight from the National Guard Bureau in response to FOIA requests and litigation. Included in this category are entries drawn from handwritten notes taken on the day of the attack, as well as communication logs between the National Guard and other entities.

Pentagon’s Public Timeline (dark red)
Entries drawn from the Pentagon’s publicly released timeline reflect communications and actions of the nation’s top defense officials on Jan. 6. The recorded events in this category include phone calls involving the secretary of defense, the D.C. mayor, the Army secretary, and other high-ranking leaders, and demonstrate attempts to coordinate national forces while the Capitol was being attacked.

News and Congressional Reports (orange)
These entries were compiled from publicly available sources, including reporting from national news organizations and records published by Congress. The entries include reports that were recorded on the day of the attack, including Donald Trump’s movements to and from the Ellipse and rioters’ efforts to breach the Capitol. Each entry is linked to its source.

Department of Homeland Security (medium blue)
Entries in this section include communications and directives that were obtained by American Oversight through a FOIA request to the Department of Homeland Security. The relevant records reflect efforts by a senior official, Ken Cuccinelli, to join a virtual situation room on the day of Jan. 6.

National Park Service (light blue)
These entries draw on Jan. 6 call logs released to American Oversight by the National Park Service in response to a FOIA request. The records reflect calls taken by top agency officials throughout the day, beginning around 10:30 a.m.

Secret Service (green)
These entries are drawn from public records released to American Oversight from the U.S. Secret Service in response to FOIA requests and litigation. The records include internal Secret Service alerts and a highly redacted timeline of Vice President Pence’s movements on Jan. 6.

Back to Top 

Learn more about American Oversight’s investigation into the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol and other attacks on democracy here.