GOP lawmakers try to change minds of objectors as Capitol remains locked down

Congressional Republicans are trying to change the minds of some GOP lawmakers who are trying to object to the Electoral College certification as the Capitol remains on lockdown following pro-Trump rioters who stormed the building on Wednesday, The Washington Post reports.

Members of the GOP are reportedly now making pleas with those who vowed to object to the certification process, including Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). Congress was only about an hour into the debate process surrounding the Arizona objection when the Capitol perimeter was breached.

Hawley announced his plans to object at the end of December, while Cruz made his intentions known a few days ago.

According to multiple sources confirmed by the Post, Republican lawmakers are employing similar tactics on the House side in hopes of avoiding further delays in the confirmation process.

Requests for comments from Hawley and Cruz’s office were not immediately returned. Hawley condemned the violence at the Capitol but stopped short of revealing whether he would resume his objection.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have stated their belief that the session will continue on tonight, despite the day’s events.