Home | WebMail |

      Calgary | Regions | Local Traffic Report | Advertise on Action News | Contact

Posted: 2022-01-18T23:52:26Z | Updated: 2022-01-19T12:30:40Z They Rejected Democracy. They Lied. Now The GOP Is Hailing Martin Luther King's Legacy. | HuffPost

They Rejected Democracy. They Lied. Now The GOP Is Hailing Martin Luther King's Legacy.

Republicans who voted to overturn the presidential election and fueled a deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol say they honor MLK's life of sacrifice for the greater good.
|

Just over a year ago, 147 Republican lawmakers tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election based on a lie about widespread voter fraud that, just hours earlier, had fueled a deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Today, most of these lawmakers are hoping you’ll forget how they lied to Americans that day and threatened the peaceful transfer of power, the very foundation of democracy. They’d rather that you think of them as having the same ideals of an American hero, Martin Luther King Jr.

HuffPost reviewed all of these Republicans’ social media accounts on Tuesday, a day after MLK Day was observed nationally, and found nearly all of them associating themselves with King’s legacy of peace, justice and sacrifice for the greater good the complete opposite of what they did on Jan. 6, 2021.

As Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) told reporters  Tuesday, “You cannot remember Martin Luther King Jr. and dismember his legacy at the same time.”

Here are the names of these 147 Republicans alongside their MLK Day messages hailing King’s efforts to make America “a more perfect union.” Amid the countless images of King’s face and passages from some of his most powerful quotes, none of these lawmakers mention that it’s barely been a year since they voted to reject a democratically elected president and spread a deadly lie to justify doing so. None mention that they all oppose  current voting rights legislation, either.

In the Senate:

1. Ted Cruz (Texas) “We remember the sacrifices he made to secure liberty for every American.” 

2. Josh Hawley  (Mo.) “‘Even in the inevitable moments when all seems hopeless, men know that without hope they cannot really live, and in agonizing desperation they cry for the bread of hope.’ Martin Luther King, Jr.”

3. Cindy Hyde-Smith (Miss.) “Mississippians and Americans come together to volunteer in a myriad of ways to work to make our nation more equitable in honor and memory of Dr. King and his invaluable contributions to our nation.”

4. John Kennedy (La.) “‘I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.’ -Martin Luther King, Jr. #MLKDay”

5. Cynthia Lummis (Wyo). “Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive our hate. Only love can do that.”

6. Roger Marshall (Kan.) “On this Martin Luther King Day, it is critical that we do not forget the many lessons he taught us. Lessons that emphasize ways to treat our peers and our neighbors with respect, despite our differences, in order to make a dream of a better, and more unified tomorrow possible.”

7. Rick Scott (Fla.) “Today, we honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr., an incredible voice for peace, equality & love.”

8. Tommy Tuberville (Ala.) “Today, we can honor his legacy by finding ways to give back and serve others, united in the purpose to make this country better for all. #MLKDay”

In the House: 

9. Robert Aderholt (Ala.) No MLK Day comments on social media.

10. Rick Allen (Ga.) “Today we celebrate the life and legacy of an outstanding Georgian, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. #MLK was a man of deep faith with the profound conviction that God creates us all equal.”

11. Jodey Arrington  (Texas) “In the face of persecution & hate, MLK took the road less traveled by using peace & non-violence to champion justice & civil rights for ALL Americans.”

12. Brian Babin  (Texas) “Today, we join together to remember the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., and the profound legacy he left behind. #MLKDay”

13. Jim Baird (Ind.) “Today, as we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, may we be reminded of his example and his commitment to loving his fellow man.”

14. Jim Banks  (Ind.) “Dr. King’s vision for a nation—where we’re judged by the content of our character, not the color of our skin—set this country on a better path, and his impact on the world will not soon be forgotten.”

15. Cliff Bentz  (Ore.) “Today we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy of collective effort to advance human rights.”

16. Jack Bergman (Mich.) “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”

17. Stephanie Bice (Okla.) “Martin Luther King Jr.’s remarkable bravery, leadership, and impactful contributions forever changed the trajectory of America for the better.”

18. Andy Biggs  (Ariz.) “Today, we honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision and perseverance that still inspires us to this day. ‘The time is always right to do what is right.’ - MLK”

19. Dan Bishop  (N.C.) “I join North Carolinians in honoring his legacy that should resonate with us today more than ever. #MLKDay”

20. Lauren Boebert  (Colo.) “Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His work to make this country a more perfect union lives on.”

21. Mike Bost  (Ill.) “Today we celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy of hope, service, and opportunity for all. #MLKDay”

22. Mo Brooks  (Ala.) “‘The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.’ Martin Luther King”

23. Ted Budd  (N.C.) “Today we honor Martin Luther King’s dream that we judge one another by the content of our character, not the color of our skin. #MLKDay”

24. Tim Burchett  (Tenn.) “Today we honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the legacy he left behind.”

25. Michael Burgess  (Texas) “Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. He was a giant among men who sought to make our union a more perfect one. On this #MLKDay may we seek to follow in his steps.”

26. Ken Calvert (Calif.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

27. Kat Cammack (Fla.) “On #MLKDay, we recognize a true visionary; a true principled leader for the betterment of our nation. We must continue to embody his spirit every day, especially in a time of tense political division.”

28. Jerry Carl (Ala.) “Today, we honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a true visionary and a steadfast leader who dedicated his life to making our country a better place. #MLKDay”

29. Buddy Carter  (Ga.) “This #MLKDay, we reflect on the life and legacy of an American hero. Thank you, Martin Luther King Jr., for courageously fighting for equality.”

30. John Carter (Texas) “Today we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. May we all strive to embody his passion for peace, justice, and kindness today, and everyday.”

31. Madison Cawthorn  (N.C.) “Honoring the incredible life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. #MLKDay”

32. Steve Chabot  (Ohio) “As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. today, may we reflect on his words of hope, optimism and unity. #MLKDay”

33. Ben Cline  (Va.) “Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His impact on the fight for equality will never be forgotten.”

34. Michael Cloud (Texas)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

35. Andrew Clyde  (Ga.) “Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a heroic leader and Civil Rights icon who fought to secure justice and equality for all Americans.”

36. Tom Cole (Okla.) “Today we remember the life & legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., whose courageous leadership during the civil rights movement will continue to inspire generations to come.”

37. Rick Crawford (Ark.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

38. Warren Davidson  (Ohio) “America is a more perfect union because of Dr. Martin Luther King. His biggest, most effective weapon was freedom of speech, which is clearly under attack as it was when he was tragically murdered.”

39. Scott DesJarlais (Tenn.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

40. Mario Diaz-Balart  (Fla.) “The time is always right to do what is right. #MartinLutherKingDay”

41. Byron Donalds (Fla.) “We are the nation we are today because of men like MLK, and we must keep his dream alive.”

42. Jeff Duncan (S.C.) “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of convenience and comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

43. Neal Dunn (Fla.) “May we all strive to continue Dr. King’s work & to make a difference, not just this weekend but every day.”

44. Ron Estes (Kan.) “Today, we honor the life of Civil Rights leader Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and remember his courageous service that is an inspiration to us all.”

45. Pat Fallon (Texas)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

46. Michelle Fischbach (Minn.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

47. Scott Fitzgerald  (Wis.) “His courage and tireless work to make our nation a more perfect union has defined the values we hold as Americans to this day.” 

48. Chuck Fleischmann  (Tenn.) “We will always remember Dr. King’s eternal dream of equality, opportunity, and service to others.”

49. Virginia Foxx  (N.C.) “His mission of promoting equality and justice for all continues to live on.”

50. Scott Franklin  (Fla.) “Today we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s work for America and the civil rights movement. We continue to fight for the dream he envisioned.”

51. Russ Fulcher  (Idaho) “In times of great division, it is imperative that we heed his words — ‘I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.’”

52. Matt Gaetz  (Fla.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

53. Mike Garcia  (Calif.) “In a world so divided, I hope we all take a moment to reflect on Dr. King & his legacy that will stand the test of time.”

54. Bob Gibbs (Ohio)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

55. Carlos Gimenez (Fla.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

56. Louie Gohmert (Texas)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

57. Bob Good (Va.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

58. Lance Gooden (Texas)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

59. Paul Gosar  (Ariz.) “Still rings true today. #MLK”

60. Garret Graves (La.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

61. Sam Graves  (Mo.) “‘The time is always right to do right.’ Join me today in celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

62. Mark Green  (Tenn.) “Today and every day, may we always remember the importance of the ‘content of our character’ as the means in which each of us should be judged. #MLKDay”

63. Marjorie Taylor Greene (Ga.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

64. Morgan Griffith  (Va.) “Through courage, eloquence, and commitment to nonviolence, he summoned our country to live up to the self-evident truths of our founding.”

65. Michael Guest  (Miss.) “Today, we remember a titan in the fight for Civil Rights.”

66. Jim Hagedorn  (Minn.) “Today, we join our nation in remembering the great Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We honor his courage and legacy of equality, opportunity, and hope.”

67. Andy Harris  (Md.) “Today, when some are once again trying to divide us based on identity, we must remember the wise words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

68. Diana Harshbarger  (Tenn.) “Remembering this leader today.”

69. Vicky Hartzler (Mo.) “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

70. Kevin Hern  (Okla.) “May his vision continue to inspire us to work together for the common good.”

71. Yvette Herrell  (N.M.) “‘A just law is a man made code that squares with the moral law or the law of God. An unjust law is a code that is out of harmony with the moral law.’ -MLK Jr.”

72. Jody Hice  (Ga.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mission to promote equality and justice for all Americans resonates more deeply than ever.” (He retweeted.)

73. Clay Higgins  (La.) “‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.’ - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

74. Richard Hudson  (N.C.)  “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mission to promote equality and justice for all Americans resonates more deeply than ever.” (He retweeted.)

75. Darrell Issa  (Calif.) “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

76. Ronny Jackson (Texas)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

77. Chris Jacobs  (N.Y.) “We must continue to live by his words and promote peace and freedom for every American.”

78. Bill Johnson (Ohio) “America is forever indebted to Dr. King’s work.”

79. Mike Johnson  (La.) “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. #MLKDay”

80. Jim Jordan (Ohio)  “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. #MLKDay” (He retweeted.)

81. John Joyce  (Pa.) “Through his words and deeds he worked to help us create ‘a more perfect Union.’”

82. Fred Keller (Pa.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to unifying America and promoting equality and justice for all.”

83. Mike Kelly  (Pa.) “On this day, we remember the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the impact he made on our world.”

84. Trent Kelly (Miss.) “In memory of Martin Luther King, Jr., and his legacy.”

85. David Kustoff  (Tenn.) “Today, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we honor the incredible life and legacy Dr. King left behind.”

86. Doug LaMalfa  (Calif.) “In honor of the upcoming MLK Jr. Day, let our country come together as we fuse our celebration of civil rights in America with our passion for our beloved National Parks.”

87. Doug Lamborn  (Colo.) “Today, we remember a man whose vision was honorable, powerful, and transcending. #MartinLutherKingDay”

88. Jake LaTurner  (Kan.) “Dr. King’s message of freedom, equality, and opportunity for every American continues to inspire our nation.”

89. Debbie Lesko (Ariz.) “On this day, we remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a man who transformed our nation and stood for equal rights and justice for all. #MLKDay”

90. Billy Long (Mo.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spent his life in the pursuit of a more perfect union. His tireless work in the Civil Right’s movement remains an inspiration to all Americans.”

91. Barry Loudermilk (Ga.) “‘The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.’ - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

92. Frank Lucas  (Okla.) “Today we honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy of freedom and equality for all Americans. #MLKDay”

93. Blaine Luetkemeyer  (Mo.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most unifying, courageous and influential Americans to ever call this country home.”

94. Nicole Malliotakis (N.Y.)  “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mission to promote equality and justice for all Americans resonates more deeply than ever.” (She retweeted.)

95. Tracey Mann  (Kan.)  “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mission to promote equality and justice for all Americans resonates more deeply than ever.” (He retweeted.)

96. Brian Mast  (Fla.) “Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy reminds us that the fight for liberty, justice and equality is always one worth having.”

97. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy  (Calif.) “His words and example inspire us today as we celebrate a great American on #MLKDay.”

98. Lisa McClain  (Mich.) “America would not be the country it is today without his activism.”

99. Daniel Meuser  (Pa.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr challenged the nation to live up to the highest ideals of equality, civility, peace and justice.”

100. Carol Miller  (W.Va.) “As we honor & celebrate his legacy today, let’s listen to his words & come together to help our neighbors & continue to make #WV the best it can be. #MLKDay”

101. Mary Miller  (Ill.) “Today, we honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision and perseverance that still inspires us to this day.”

102. Alex Mooney (W.Va.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

103. Barry Moore  (Ala.) “As we celebrate today, may we honor him by loving one another and working to heal our nation.”

104. Markwayne Mullin  (Okla.) “Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Now more than ever, we must strive to follow his example.”

105. Greg Murphy (N.C.) “Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of the greatest champions for freedom and equality in the history of our nation.”

106. Troy Nehls  (Texas) “Thank you Dr. King. Your legacy and your mission will never be forgotten.”

107. Ralph Norman  (S.C.) “He became the face of the Civil Rights movement and to this day, his work continues to inspire the nation.”

108. Devin Nunes (Calif.) Resigned from Congress.

109. Jay Obernolte  (Calif.) “On this #MLKDay, let us stand firm in his conviction that, in time, peace and love will prevail.”

110. Burgess Owens (Utah) “As we honor Dr. King’s dream today, let’s carry on his legacy of equality and strive to continue building a brighter future for all.”

111. Steven Palazzo  (Miss.) “Dr. Martin Luther King dedicated his life to loving his neighbors and serving his country. May we honor his incredible legacy by serving our communities and playing a part in the positive change in our nation and our world.”

112. Gary Palmer  (Ala.) “His commitment to justice, civil rights, and peace between fellow citizens remain an inspiration for us in these tense political times.”

113. Greg Pence  (Ind.) “Today, we honor Dr. King’s legacy of steadfast & passionate devotion to his Dream of freedom & equal opportunity for all.”

114. Scott Perry  (Pa.) “Let us all remember Dr. King’s steadfast commitment to achieving justice through nonviolent protest.”

115. August Pfluger (Texas) “His vision of freedom, equality, and opportunity, as well as his dedication to serving others, is a legacy that will always be remembered.”

116. Bill Posey (Fla.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

117. Guy Reschenthaler  (Pa.) “I encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on Dr. King’s unmatched courage.”

118. Tom Rice  (S.C.) “Today we remember the life and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - a true unifier who made America a better place.”

119. Harold Rogers (Ky.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

120. Mike Rogers  (Ala.) “Today, we honor and remember the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and the profound impact he had on our nation. #MLKDay”

121. John Rose (Tenn.) No MLK Day comments on social media.

122. Matthew Rosendale  (Mont.) “On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it is critical that we reflect on how we can learn from our nation’s history, not erase or tear it down.”

123. David Rouzer  (N.C.) “Today we honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy of freedom and equality for all Americans. #MLKDay”

124. John Rutherford  (Fla.) “Because of his tireless commitment to freedom and equality, America became a more perfect Union.”

125. House Minority Whip Steve Scalise  (La.) “Today, we don’t only celebrate the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we honor his life of sacrifice and dedication that led to America becoming a more perfect union.” (He retweeted.)

126. David Schweikert  (Ariz.) “Martin Luther King Jr. called on all Americans to be compassionate and loving neighbors, to be the light wherever there is darkness.”

127. Pete Sessions  (Texas) “Today, we honor the life and legacy of the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.! He was an admirable man of character and conviction.”

128. Adrian Smith (Neb.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

129. Jason Smith  (Mo.) “Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. He dedicated his life to make our country better for generations to come.

130. Lloyd Smucker  (Pa.) “Today we honor and reflect on the works and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

131. House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik  (N.Y.) “Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired our nation to make great strides, and his honorable work to secure civil rights and equal opportunity for all Americans remains more important than ever.”

132. Gregory Steube  (Fla.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will always be remembered for his message of unity and peace.”

133. Chris Stewart  (Utah) “May we never forget his words and actions. And may we always pursue the better nation he imagined for us all.”

134. Thomas Tiffany (Wis.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

135. Glenn Thompson (Pa.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

136. William Timmons  (S.C.) “Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—his steadfast commitment to equality, his fight for freedom and justice, and his unwavering vision for a more perfect union.”

137. Jeff Van Drew (N.J.) “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most unifying, influential, and compassionate Americans in our Nation’s history. Today, we celebrate his honorable life and legacy. #MLKDay”

138. Beth Van Duyne  (Texas) “Today we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr., who ensured America live up to the “magnificent words of the Declaration of Independence” and deliver freedom to ALL Americans. We live in a truly great nation thanks to pioneers like MLK.”

139. Tim Walberg  (Mich.) “May his enduring message of freedom and opportunity for all continue to inspire us as a nation for generations to come.”

140. Jackie Walorski  (Ind.) “Today Americans from all corners of our country honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his remarkable vision for our nation. Every day, we must continue to strive together to form a more perfect Union.”

141. Randy Weber  (Texas) “As we observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let us honor his legacy by looking out for our neighbors and serving those in need in our communities. Happy MLK Day!”

142. Daniel Webster  (Fla.) “He inspired us to choose love over hate & build relationships with those of different backgrounds from our own.”

143. Roger Williams  (Texas) “His commitment to justice, equality, and peace inspired millions and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”

144. Joe Wilson (S.C.)  No MLK Day comments on social media.

145. Robert Wittman  (Va.) “As we remember his legacy, may we strive to be more like him in our dedication to service, our communities, and our neighbors.”

146. Ron Wright (Texas) Died in February.

147. Lee Zeldin  (N.Y.) “Martin Luther King, Jr. encouraged fierce but peaceful protest of injustice, and acted selflessly to fight hate and intolerance.”

Our 2024 Coverage Needs You

As Americans head to the polls in 2024, the very future of our country is at stake. At HuffPost, we believe that a free press is critical to creating well-informed voters. That's why our journalism is free for everyone, even though other newsrooms retreat behind expensive paywalls.

Our journalists will continue to cover the twists and turns during this historic presidential election. With your help, we'll bring you hard-hitting investigations, well-researched analysis and timely takes you can't find elsewhere. Reporting in this current political climate is a responsibility we do not take lightly, and we thank you for your support.

to keep our news free for all.

Support HuffPost