House Speaker Mike Johnson has initiated the public release of over 44,000 hours of security footage from the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, fulfilling a promise to enhance transparency regarding the events of that day. The first batch of footage, approximately 90 hours, has been made available on the House Administration Committee’s website, with the remaining videos to be released over the coming months .
Initially, Speaker Johnson proposed blurring the faces of individuals in the footage to protect them from potential retaliation. However, he later reversed this decision, citing logistical challenges and the importance of timely disclosure. As a result, the footage is being released without facial blurring, except for segments that may reveal sensitive security information, which will be withheld .
This move has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that it promotes transparency and allows the public to form their own understanding of the events. Critics, however, express concerns that the unedited release could compromise security protocols and potentially endanger individuals captured in the footage .
The release has also reignited debates surrounding the Capitol riot, with some political figures using the footage to support various narratives about the day’s events .
The full collection of released footage is accessible to the public through the House Administration Committee’s official channels.