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Allison Hans
This is an iHeart podcast, Guaranteed Human. Coming up on American Sunrise EARLY Edition. Extreme flashback. It was five years ago today that patriots stormed the Capitol in an attempt to overturn an election they felt was fixed in moments. We're going back to that day and to what has happened to those who were involved since. Plus, extreme justice. Former Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro and his wife went before a judge on federal drug and weapons charges. We have the latest details on what went down in court and what lies ahead for these two renegades and the country they no longer control. And extreme socialism. New York's new mayor, Zoran Mandani, newly appointed tenant advocate, calls to seized private property and blasted home ownership as a weapon of white supremacy in a series of pro communist social media posts. And their administration is just getting started. Oh, no. Those stories and so much more as American Sunrise starts right now.
Brian Glenn
Welcome to American Sunrise EARLY edition, the show where faith, freedom and the values that built this nation take center stage. You people and others like you built this country. Join us as we break down the stories that matter. F A F O.
David Brody
If you don't know now, you know.
Brian Glenn
American SUNRISE EARLY EDITION on REAL america's VOICE starts now.
Allison Hans
Good morning, everyone. Hi there. Welcome to AMERICAN Sunrise EARLY edition. I'm Allison Hans live from West Palm beach. And it is so great to have you with us. Let's bring in my co host Brian Glenn. Brian, good morning.
Brian Glenn
Good morning.
Allison Hans
Unbelievable that Today is the fifth anniversary of January six. I know that we've been talking about Maduro 24 7, which rightfully so, such a historic moment, but kind of getting lost, lost here is what a significant day this is.
Brian Glenn
It is. And good morning, everybody. And as I went to bed last night, I was kind of putting myself like where was I five years ago when this all went down? I remember covering President Trump at the Ellipse and hearing of some activity at the Capitol and kind of hearing what we would now know as these flashbangs that the Capitol Police set off towards the crowds. And then I walked over there under a journalistic, you know, guidelines there, went there and covered it. And just as we watched it unfold and then later, Allison, finding out kind of what was behind a lot of that protest and how it developed end up being a lead story for now five years and we're still trying to figure out exactly who can be held accountable. But wow. And I'm so glad that we're going to spend some time this morning, Allison, talking with J6ers and talking about this great event that takes place today here in D.C. d.C. 11 o' clock at the Willard Courtyard there out front press conference, we'll have J6ers. Also, we'll be able to preview a little bit of the J6 film documentary that we have as well. There's a march. We'll get much more into that later. But today, our hearts and our prayers go out to everyone that was affected by January 6th, no doubt.
Allison Hans
Absolutely. Well, we'll have more on the anniversary of January 6th siege of the Capitol in just a moment. But first, here's today's Bible verse as we start this morning. We want to start with Romans 8, 6. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Love that one. Well, turning now from the good Book to a page from America's recent history, Today marks the fifth anniversary of January 6, a day the left still uses as a political weapon. For years, Democrats and their media allies have pushed a one sided narrative while ignoring serious questions about security failures, selective prosecutions and due process of thousands of peaceful Trump supporters who were smeared, they were hunted, they were silenced, while real crime in America has skyrocketed. Now, five years later, many are still demanding answers, accountability, and equal justice under the law for millions of Americans, January 6th isn't about spin. It's about truth, fairness, and a government that plays by its own rules. Joining us now with insight is John Strand. Jon was a J6 political prisoner who was sentenced to 32 months in federal prison but served one year. He was released last July after being vindicated by the US Supreme Court. Welcome, John. Thank you so much for being here this morning.
John Strand
Thank you, Alison and Brian, it's an honor and a pleasure to be with you.
Allison Hans
Well, John, it was five years ago today that you made your way to the Capitol to protest the outcome of the election. What do you remember most from that day?
John Strand
You know, it's a vivid memory burned into my mind. And what I remember most is that inescapable feeling of patriotism. And that was a good feeling, but that was also buttressed by a very concerning feeling and realization. It was a deep belief that was gripping most of the country, certainly myself included, that our republic was very much under attack. Our elections were under attack and not trusted. And so the result of the 2020 election was widely understood to be affected by fraud. And so there were American citizens gathering at our nation's capital, exercising the actual enumerated rights that we have in the First Amendment to petition our government for a redress of grievances and unfortunately, what happened is we were entrapped. We were assaulted by elements of our own government and of our own process, and it was weaponized against us. And I really believe January 6th can be accurately understood as our nation's Reichstag Fire moment, our American Reichstag. And, of course, those who know their history about the Nazi regime in World War II understand that refers to an event that was framed as a attack by the people on an institution of government, and yet it was actually set up and predicated by the government with nefarious intent to assign blame to the people for an illegitimate regime and their evil behavior. So there's a lot of lies mixed in with what people think about the truth of January 6th. And unfortunately, you know, lies get around the world in a second before the truth gets their pants on. So we're still working really hard as a. As an American nation to correct the record and also to correct the injustice and the harms that have been done to many American citizens, myself included. It's hard to describe exactly what happens to your life or when you are unjustly accused by the federal government, accused of being a terrorist, of being this insurrectionist verbiage that's really flammable. The real insurrection was a silent coup happening within the deep state uniparty that helped to facilitate this manufactured riot and all of the fallout. So there's a lot there. But we have to be committed as American citizens to continually pursuing the truth and to demanding justice for those harmed. And the fair rule of law, like you said, Alison, that it should apply equally to all citizens.
Brian Glenn
Yeah, John, now walk us through the toll of that day and how it weighs now carries, like, after you've been jailed, like, what is your day like now? And how often do you reflect on this dramatic point in your life?
John Strand
It's a good question, too. Of course. I reflect on it, certainly every day. I was. I was violently assaulted by a weaponized FBI raid. That was what you would expect that they had used for Maduro. I bet they treated Maduro better than they did myself, honestly. 20 tactical agents pulverized my door with a battering ram. This is in downtown Beverly Hills at the time. And so from that moment, I was just positioned against the full weight of the federal government as though I was an international narco terrorist. Meanwhile, I am an actor, a writer, an author, and a civil rights advocate. That's what I've done with my life, with zero criminal record whatsoever. And so, after many years of that assault, like you mentioned, because I refused to take a fraudulent Plea and sign a confession of guilt. When I was innocent, I was vindicated by the Supreme Court and then fully exonerated when the DOJ vacated all of my charges. But before we got to that glorious victory, we had to go through unbelievable persecution. I went to trial. I was convicted in a rigged DC court system. Then I was badly abused by an egregious sentence, put in the wrong prison that was far more harsh than what was merited by the circumstances. Then I was put into solitary confinement, completely illegitimately, because I actually dared to share the truth of what was happening to me with your colleague Grant Stinchfield on this very network. And so this incredible trail of persecution and abuse, it deeply affected my life. But, Brian, your question. How do I see the weight of this now? Right. The day itself. I told you that the feeling to me was patriotism, a reawakening of how sacred and important our Republic is and the fact that it was deeply under assault because of election integrity and many other things that we're gonna be talking about this morning. But the weight of it is to tell us how important this moment is and what we have to do to reclaim the Republic.
Allison Hans
Absolutely. And obviously it is very important to you because now it spurred you to run for Congress. So tell us a little bit about how that came about. That's a long way from J6 from prison to politics.
John Strand
I never expected I would be running for public office. Like I said, I'm an artist. I'm a civil rights advoc. I had my own American dream that I've been pursuing for many years in this country. But when Covid happened and the tyranny in real time of those lockdowns, quickly followed by January 6, and the serious concerns about not only election integrity, but really the integrity of our entire Republican form of government, our constitutional Republic, I realized much more was at stake and that God was calling me to the front lines of a different path for fulfilling my destiny as an American and participating in this project to defend the Republic on behalf of all American citizens. So when I was in prison, I heard God speak to me about these things. And it was clear to me when I came out on the other side. And I didn't know when or how that would work out, that was a miracle that I had to lean in and trust in God. And he delivered me in incredible ways. And so when I got out, there was an opportunity in my district. I've lived in Naples, Florida, the last four years, fighting for liberty and morality here in southwest Florida. And Byron Donalds, our great congressman will be the next governor of the free state of Florida. And I'm excited to invite all patriots across this land to join us@johnstrand.com where we have an incredible opportunity to fill an open seat, to win a seat in Congress and to put a proven patriot into Congress. Because I want to ask everyone this question. Do we remember the definition of, of insanity? I think that would be electing the same Rhinos cycle after cycle but expecting a different result in Congress. We're not getting it. With the Somalian daycare fraud story and with a open Islamic communist in New York claiming to demonize private property, we have to ask ourselves some very basic questions about who we are as Americans and where we are going.
Allison Hans
And absolutely.
Brian Glenn
Thank you.
Allison Hans
Thank you, John. We're running out of time here, but hopefully we can go to johnstrand.com Is that the website?
Brian Glenn
Yes.
John Strand
Johnstrand.com that is where we are fighting the revolution to reclaim the Republic.
Allison Hans
Thank you so much for joining us this morning. We appreciate it.
Brian Glenn
Thanks, John.
John Strand
Bless you guys. Thank you.
Allison Hans
Up next, from Venezuela's strongman to prison inmate Nicolas Maduro still has friends in high places pledging their loyalty and taunting Trump and the United States who find out those details are next as the early edition of American Sunrise continues. And welcome back to AMERICAN SUNRISE EARLY edition. Looking at the White House right there, I'm Alison Hahns. Good morning to you. Let's bring back in Brian Glenn, my wonderful co host. Good morning, Brian. And I really wanted to give you an opportunity, opportunity to comment on our last segment because you had a really, really good point about John Strand.
Brian Glenn
Alison, I want the American people to know, especially on today, you know, the anniversary of January 6, wouldn't it be very symbolic to send a Republican, a J Sixer, to Washington to represent that district, that Byron Donald is an open seat there. I just think it would be a great tale from the alpha to the omega in a way, how it begins and how it ends, I think it's great. So I encourage everybody that lives in his district, go to his website, find out more about him and then you make a decision. But I think it'd be a great thing.
Allison Hans
I think I totally agree 100%. Okay. Well, let's turn our attention now to the latest on former Venezuelan strongman turned current prison inmate Nicolas Maduro. Days after his capture in a Caracas safe house, Maduro is now behind bars in Brooklyn and facing the same tough conditions other high profile federal inmates have called inhumane. Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores are charged with international drug trafficking. Accused of poisoning American streets while terrorizing their own people. The message President Trump sent is clear and is one that is echoing around the world. Under American law and order, even foreign tyrants answer for their crimes. Justice is no longer optional. Colombian President Gustavo Petro fired back at President Trump, warning that Colombians would defend himself against any invader. Petro claimed he's not illegitimate or a narco and portrayed himself as supreme commander of his military, accusing US Officials of being fed false info by criminal interests. His rant comes as Trump has pointed to potential action against Colombia.
Brian Glenn
In.
Allison Hans
In the wake of our dramatic capture of Maduro, RAP correspondent and host of Breaking Point, David Zier was at the courthouse yesterday where Maduro and his wife were arraigned. David, what can you tell us about what you experienced yesterday?
David Zier
Oh, it was surreal. You know, Maduro didn't look like a dictator. Good morning Brian and Alison, by the way. But he did look like a beaten down uncle at one of your daughter's quinceaneras, you know, and he was like, oh, I'm an innocent and good man, you know, in the courtroom. And, and while they were Venezuelan counter protesters outside, I interviewed and spoke with, telling me they fled Venezuela because their friends and family were tortured by Maduro. So yeah, and let me tell you, lower Manhattan has become a hotbed and a reflective, a mirror on a modern American society. You know, so many things besides P. Diddy and R. Kelly and El Chapo being convicted in Brooklyn across the river, Luigi Mangione, the hush money trial and now Maduro. It's pretty spectacular what's going on. And also Ramsey Yousef, the first World Trade center bomber was tried in New York as well. And it's New York is, you know, really the center of gravity right now.
Brian Glenn
Dave, if I can, I did a little research on this judge. He's 92 years old if I believe and apparently he doesn't necessarily look at the law. He does what he wants to damn well do is in using a quote from one of the reporters. What is your thoughts that perhaps this, what would you tend to be kind of a liberal court system there? Liberal mayor, liberal governor. Could this be a mistake to actually bring him to this New York courtroom rather than charging him in a different state that might be a little bit more conservative?
David Zier
Well, the floor in Florida, the feds did participate in the original 2011 indictments that Judge Hellerstein presided over. 92 year old Clinton appointee judge, Remember he blocked Trump from using the Alien enemies Act of 1798 to deport illegals and trend within the Southern District of New York. He also refused to move Donald Trump's husband trial from state to federal level, which led to a conviction at the state. You know, so he's Judge Hellerstein was very fair yesterday in the arraignment. He was on neutral ground yesterday. I think he does conduct himself that way in these trials. But his ultimate decisions probably are skewed, you know, in favor of some political bias. But remember in 2011 they started indictments and like I was saying yesterday, Hugo Armando Carvajal Barrios, the AP AKA a El Pollos member of he worked with Hugo Chavez and he was convicted in the Southern District. Right. And he's going to be sentenced I think next week. And this led to the current 2020 indictments for Maduro and the superseding indictment from recently for Maduro as well, additional charges. So we'll see how it unfolds.
Allison Hans
Okay. David Zier, thank you so much. When we return, Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly is under fire from Pete Hegseth after he told members of the military to defy orders if need be. Now the punishment is being doled out. The details are next as this American edition of American Sunrise continues.
Brian Glenn
All right, welcome back. Before we dive in, a quick word from one of our sponsors, Artillery Tea Company. This is the only America first veteran owned tea brand. That's right. Their mission is maximize flavor with whole leaf blends and chemical free tea bags. No junk, just real tea. And here's the tactical advantage. Each bag brews twice. Just go to artillerytco.com and use the code RAV for 10% off your first order. That's artillerytco.com premium T, mission driven, brewed for the brave. Hello. All right, let's bring in my co host Allison back in for discussion. So much going on right now. Now it's interesting. Let's talk about this hex that thing.
Allison Hans
Yes, that's right, Brian. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, he's taken action against Senator Mark Kelly, the astronaut who along with other service members. You saw that video. They egged on current troops to defy Trump's orders. If you haven't seen it, let's take a look. I'm Senator Alyssa Slotkin.
Brian Glenn
Senator Mark Kelly, Representative Chris d', Aluzio.
Allison Hans
Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander, Representative Chrissy Houlihan.
Brian Glenn
Congressman Jason Crow. I was a captain in the United States Navy, former CIA officer, former Navy, former paratrooper and Army Ranger, former intelligence.
Allison Hans
Officer, former Air Force.
Brian Glenn
We want to speak directly to members of the Military and the intelligence community who take risks each day to keep American safe.
Allison Hans
We know you are under enormous stress and pressure right now. Americans trust their military, but that trust is at risk.
Brian Glenn
This administration is pitting our uniform military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens like us. You all swore an oath to protect.
Allison Hans
And defend this Constitution.
Brian Glenn
Right now, the threats to our Constitution aren't just coming from abroad, but from right here at home. Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal order.
Allison Hans
You can refuse illegal orders.
Brian Glenn
You must refuse illegal orders.
Allison Hans
No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution.
Brian Glenn
We know this is hard and that it's a difficult time to be a public servant.
Allison Hans
But whether you're serving in the CIA, the army, or Navy, the Air Force.
Brian Glenn
Your vigilance is critical.
Allison Hans
And know that we have your back. Because now more than ever, the American people need you. We need you to stand up for.
Brian Glenn
Our laws, our Constitution, and who we are as Americans. Don't give up. Don't give up. Don't give up.
Allison Hans
Don't give up the ship. Brian, I gotta tell you, I was blown away when I saw that video. I said, where is the chain of command? I could. I really could not believe they put that video out.
Brian Glenn
Well, here's the deal. Here's the good news, America. Our troops are not listening to them at all. We pulled off an amazing mission with Midnight Hammer in Iran, striking those facilities. And then we also did an amazing. Executed another extraction of Maduro from, From. From Venezuela. So we've had all of these things, and of course, we've done all these mass deportations, these ice rays, these real tactical things. They're not listening to them. These are just disgruntled Democrats that are. They're never Trumpers. And they simply do not like anything that's coming out of this administration in terms of holding people accountable. So the men and women that serve this country, Allison, they're not listening to these individuals. But I do think there needs to be some type of accountability. Now, Mark Kelly will have his military retirement pay cut as a part of the disciplinary action over the video. Now, Secretary Hetseth also issued a former letter censoring against Kelly. Now, Het. Seth called Kelly's statements on the video, quote, sedacious man. Strong words there, Alison.
Allison Hans
Absolutely seditious. Seditious. I mean, it was absolutely unbelievable. And you know what I'm really glad about is that over the past couple of months, and I think you have been at some of these events, you've had President Trump going around to the different areas of the military. And I don't know, for all intents and purposes, maybe it's under the 250th year banner, but really rallying the troops. And then of course you had those checks going out, those 1776 checks before during Christmas time. I'm sure they're enjoying them right now. And so I'm really glad that there is that connection with the real commander and chief instead of this nonsense. I, you know, I was blown away. I'm glad Mark Kelly is getting docked on pay. But the thing is, is that they could really call him back to service at any time. That's my understanding.
Brian Glenn
I don't think they want him, but they could. Look, I've been with President Trump at this 250 celebration. We went to North Carolina, we've done some other trips as well, was with Hexath at one of the events as well. Our military loves our commander in chief, President Trump. They love Secretary of War Pete Hetseth. They are following the commands of our leaders of our country, not these clowns that reside as Democrats. So that's the good news. But you know, we, we, we go on to this, this year doing celebrating 250, there's going to be more of these military based celebrations. So just look for more highlight reels coming out of the Democratic Party.
Allison Hans
But I also, I think it's a larger question. I think even in the past couple of days, for example, with Maduro and you have Congress basically saying we were not notified properly of what these military or law enforcement actions were going to be. And good, you know, they would have.
Brian Glenn
Leaked them, they would have leaked all that information out.
Allison Hans
So it's these congressional members going rogue, saying, hey, we need to know everything at every moment. And how are you supposed to operate a military or law enforcement proceedings when you're outside squeaking to members of Congress?
Brian Glenn
I tell you what I want, I want accountability on their voting record. How about that? If people in their congressional districts, if they want to be informed on everything that their military does, then why don't the American people want to be informed on everything they vote on? Do a roll call vote, put names on what they voted against, put that out. That's stuff that people want to hear. I'm glad they don't brief Congress on some of these things because we know it would get leaked to the media, which could there later endanger these men and women that take on these very risky missions.
Allison Hans
Absolutely. And that's what Rubio was saying this week. I mean he was like, you gotta be kidding me. And by the way, I absolutely love Rubio. What he's been doing, the way he has approached the media, the way he has presented himself, this is like an entirely new man. I have just so much newfound respect for him. It's extraordinary to see his trajectory over the past year.
Brian Glenn
Yeah, I've enjoyed being in the Oval Office, watching Rubio through these kind of these tense moments that we've had and watching the reaction on that. So, yeah, he's. He's wearing like, three or four different hats. So I. My props to Marco Rubio for really stepping into many pairs of shoes in this administration.
Allison Hans
He's doing great. Well, before we go to break, let me get you in on a little secret. An organic skin care brand called Puriance has been turning heads recently in elle, Cosmopolitan, and LA Weekly. To date, they've helped more than 60,000 women to fall in love with their skin complexion again. Puriance delivers clean, organic skincare without harsh preservatives. Their Cellular Restore serum features a gentle alternative to retinol called facial. In a small focus group, 92.9% of women saw fewer wrinkles after just three weeks of applying Cellular Restore Serum. Their cellular hydration serum contains tremella mushroom, which hydrates the deepest layers of skin better than hyaluronic acid. Then there's Xylify, Lift and Glow Organic Eye Cream. If you want to lighten the appearance of dark under eye circles and restore radiant complexion, then you will love Lift and Glow. Finally, they have Even Glow Serum. Even Glow features Kaka Du plum, which features 100 times more concentrated vitamin C than oranges. Even Glow works wonders for reducing dark spot appearance. And right now, for a limited time, you can save 35% on all Puriance products. Simply go to puriance.com and enter coupon code early at checkout. That's P U R E a n c e.com and coupon code early to save 35% on your order today. I know I'm ordering some, and I think that I would not be emasculating Brian to order some as well. I know he likes to keep his eyes all nice and sweet. Okay, coming up, let's take a look. We'll be back with much more when an early edition of American Sunrise returns. Stay tuned. My name is Shane Jenkins.
Brian Glenn
Enrique Tarrio.
John Strand
Robert Morse.
David Brody
Daniel Caldwell.
John Strand
My name is Mickey.
Brian Glenn
My name is Pete Schwartz.
John Strand
Barry Ramey. Ryan Nichols.
Allison Hans
Deborah Mamo. Olivia Pollock.
John Strand
John Nassif.
David Zier
Jordan Man.
Brian Glenn
George White Wolf. Riley. Robert G. Swine.
David Zier
Kyle Fitzheim.
Allison Hans
Adrianne Southard Andrew Takis Jessica Watkins Timothy.
Brian Glenn
Hale Billy Crossman this anthem means a lot to me because it's what held.
Allison Hans
Us together against the odds.
Brian Glenn
Our faith that our days of this nation will be renewed. Still there we formed bonds that can never be broken.
David Brody
I, along with my brothers and sisters, weathered the storm.
Brian Glenn
We will never stop fighting for this country and my friends and my brothers that also helped me through this tough.
Allison Hans
Time because we are what makes this country the greatest country on this planet.
Brian Glenn
In this moment, in this anthem is living. We sing for all the people who never made it home. Through us, their stories will be told. We stand as one, united in this fight for liberty, justice for our voices. Ring the dantum of the free.
Unknown Speaker (Musical Performance)
Hey, hey, hey, hey. Freedom ain't free. No, it comes with a price. Rest in peace, Charlie. Can't believe they took your life. Life didn't make it back home to your children and wife by any means we have to keep freedom of speech alive. Hey, rest in peace, Corey. All the fires that you fight to the cops in military that been fighting day and night so we could have liberty and our God giving rights to all the mothers and fathers that's just trying to protect they child. Hey, freedom worth dying for, dreams worth fighting for. God got us, I promise that's reason. I smile protesting with our voice and our presence and our words.
Allison Hans
Coming up on American Sunrise EARLY Edition. New York's new mayor just sent chills up every homeowner's spine with his administration stance on property ownership. Mamdani's crew wants to seize private property as they blasted home ownership as white supremacy. We cannot make this up, folks. The details are ahead. And Tim Waltz may go down as the one who thankfully never won the vice presidency. In moments, the details behind the Minnesota governor being shamed into abandoning his re election bid after billions of dollars in government aid was stolen by Somali immigrants. And the president's reaction is ahead. And after last year's word record long government shutdown, Congress faces another funding deadline just two months later. Lawmakers must act by January 30th or risk furloughs and halted government operations. Conservatives warn Washington's overspending and political games again put hardworking Americans on the hook, showing once again the taxpayers pay the price when career politicians fail. We have the details, all of those stories and so much more as AMERICAN SUNRISE EARLY EDITION continues right now. Welcome back to AMERICAN SUNRISE EARLY edition. I'm Alison Hans. Let's bring in my co host Brian Glenn. Good morning, Brian.
Brian Glenn
Good morning. Good morning. On this fifth anniversary of January 6th.
Allison Hans
It's amazing. Brian, I wanted to ask you because earlier in the show that you said that you were on the Ellipse on January 6, five years ago. So did. Did anything look really weird to you? Kind of, you know, set this, set the stage of. Of what we were. What you were experiencing, actually, it didn't.
Brian Glenn
Look at the ellipse itself, which was packed, I think. I think they had estimates maybe well over 100,000 people. Just in that. In that little area. Nothing looked out of the ordinary. It was a very cold day there in January. People bundled up, people wearing a lot of Trump swag, American flags, Trump flags as well. So it looks like another rally day, and it really did. And as people peacefully walked down Pennsylvania Avenue, as I did, that's only when we began to hear some of the, you know, some of the flashbangs that the Capitol Police was using against the crowd and starting to hear a little bit of the chants. And we knew. Allison, walking up as, as I was live on television, by the way, streaming this, as I was walking up to the Capitol, that's when I realized that something was going down. And I did put myself in a very particular place during this all, to capture all of this activity. And Alison, I called it out live on the air. What I saw, these people that were on the front lines causing the most violence towards the Capitol Police was not, in fact, Trump supporters, I called it. I. They're antifa. They're dressed all in black. They've got pickaxes, they got gloves, they've got hammers, things like that, face protection, helmets. Trump supporters don't go to events dressed like they're going to an antifa rally. I call this from day one. And that narrative continued to kind of, I think, evolve over the years, but still, regardless of the pardons. And granted, we are very thankful that the Trump administration has done that. And Jonathan, John, Jonathan Strand, we had an earlier expressed that gratitude. But we must hold Matthew Graves and everyone else and the FBI and the DOJ accountable, the J6 committee, the Democrats that were on that, we need to hold them accountable for the Hollywood production that they put on. That was all a lie and a charade. That was a fed shrection. That was not an insurrection. It was led by antifa and other dark forces in our country.
Allison Hans
And thank you for that description, really put us there that day. What concerns me is that I think that this audience, yourself, myself, we understand or have a better understanding of the reality of what happened that day. But I still think that out in the general public, and we're talking mainstream media, they really don't understand what happened that day. So it's like, I think we really need to show opening up those gates, when security opened up those gates, when you had people inside the Capitol letting people in. There are people out there who don't understand that that happened.
Brian Glenn
No, not at all. And we got one guy that probably can weigh on that with Tim Burchett. So I believe we have him on the phone to weigh in from that Congressman Tim Burchett from the great state of Tennessee. Congressman, welcome for.
Tim Burchett
Sorry, you just got to look at a beautiful picture of my smiling face and not me live.
Brian Glenn
That's quite okay.
Allison Hans
No worries.
Brian Glenn
Good.
Allison Hans
Good morning. Good morning. Okay. Representative Burchett, Today marks the fifth anniversary of January 6th. What, what are your reflections of that day?
Tim Burchett
Oh, I was the, actually the last person, a House member, to leave the House floor. And we stayed to help people get off the confusion. And then I remembered I contacted the Capitol Hill police and the committee and all that afterwards to, because I would like to. I wanted to talk to them about what I saw, the confusion, the, the lack of planning. I thought I said there we had some great, very brave Capitol Hill policemen, but I felt they were great. And then I, I contacted them and I, and, and the people in charge and they said. And then I left a message and then I called back a week later. And then I would call back another week later. And then I realized they did not want to know anything. And it went from top to bottom. And that was the Democrats congressional attitude. And then they pulled in some Republicans who had an ax to grind. And then it just went, it was just a charade. And I remembered. Do you all remember? They actually, the final day, they had it, it was produced and they had the, like a former, I think it was an ABC producer who they brought in. And I said on national news, I said, are they going to have walk in music for this thing? I mean, are they going to be a music video? Because it was a production, it was pre planned and it was very apparent. And Brian and Brian's talked about this many times before that it was just a, it was a charade, that whole investigation. It was a horrible day. And here's what I thought when I was there. I thought you had some very good people that were caught up in it, but you had some instigators. Now we've had testimony and the FBI would not even admit that they didn't have people in the crowd. And just the whole thing and the problem with it now, five years later, I mean it's like the Kennedy assassination and we'll never ever know because the people that you know, it's just so deep. This whole thing is so deep. And it just, and it, and it just ticks me off beyond belief because I saw what I felt was a cover up in this thing and then we'll never get to the truth of what happened.
Brian Glenn
Yeah, Congressman, I remember being on the campaign trail. I had 75, 80 year old grandmothers coming up to me saying they just walked towards the Capitol and take a picture and walked away. And then three weeks later had an FBI agent at their door. Meanwhile, Matthew Graves, the FBI, the DOJ was releasing about 40% of the cases against real criminals in D.C. to go specifically after J6ers. So when we kind of look at it now, is there any time left for accountability? I mean what, what is the likelihood of perk walks and handcuffs for some of these people that were complicit and going after January six years unlawfully?
Tim Burchett
It's the Washington sidestep. Brian. I don't, I don't think you'll see it. I just, people are going to pound their chests and talk, but until the ones that are that, you know, Congress can, you know, and we'll have, I know we'll have hearings to death on it and, but we, I think somebody asked me, why don't you do anything about it? I said, I think it's tradition really that we just, I've always said we want our pizzas in America in 30 minutes or less. And that's about our dadgum attention span. And let me one up you on that. I had people that called me and asked me if I would come pray with them out on the Mall before it all happened. They were just wanting to be there and take pictures and stuff. It was a church group, I'll never forget this. And, and they went home and some of them called and they posted on Facebook. They went home before it even happened. And then they went home on Facebook and, and posted stuff about it. And the FBI visit called on them and they kind of played hard hand with them. Another, I remember a girl claimed she was from Maryville, Tennessee, Blount County. I'm from Blount county and I, that's my district. And she made national news for all of her radical rantings. Nobody knew who she was. No, I haven't heard from her since. We couldn't find out who she was. I mean she said who she was, but it was Bogus. The whole thing was bogus. And I mean, that's, that's blunt. That's Knox. It's right outside of my, it's in my district. It's 20% of my area is Blount County.
Allison Hans
Well, Congressman, next time we have to have your beautiful face in person. Thank you.
Tim Burchett
I'm going to D.C. shortly and become my father. I'm going to have my young folks figure out how to use my stupid computer, which is my phone, as I call it, and figure it out and get me back on the news. So thank you all so much. Thank you, Brian. Thank you. Thank you all for your integrity. I really appreciate it.
Allison Hans
Thank you so much. Okay. Coming up, don't go anywhere. In moments, David Brody joins us with a preview of what's ahead on American Sunrise. We will be back with more in just a moment. Welcome back. Welcome back to American Sunrise. Beautiful shot of New York City this morning. Okay, Mondame Palace. I'm Alison Hans. Let's bring back my co host, Brian Glenn. And joining us also this morning, American Sunrise host David Brody. Good morning, David.
David Brody
Morning, guys. How are ya?
Allison Hans
Doing great. How are you doing?
David Brody
Oh, I'm doing great. Thanks for asking.
Allison Hans
Awesome. Well, you know, we're talking about a lot of issues today. We've had quite a news cycle over the past 72 hours, but today we want to mark that it is the fifth anniversary of January 6th, and we want to get your thoughts on where you were that day and in perspective what, what you think should happen now.
David Brody
Yeah, you know, actually I was covering it in real time on Real America's Voice back in the day, the now defunct water cooler show on Real America's Voice. But I was hosting that literally as it was happening. So we were covering it in real and it was wild. It obviously was wild in the moment. And as time went on, you started to realize that, wait a minute, as the Biden administration went ahead and started doing all of these indictments against all of the J6ers, if you will, you started to realize that it wasn't just an indictment of the J6ers. They were trying to indict Maga writ large. Overall, they tried to indict all of us, if you think about it. And I think that to me is the big takeaway that they literally, we talk about political weaponization, but it wasn't just against the J6ers. It was against the whole movement because they knew the movement was something powerful, something that President Trump was able to formulate, and they wanted to crush it. And I think to me that that is kind of a big takeaway beyond even January 6th.
Brian Glenn
Guys, it's interesting how Democrats like to talk about. But January 6th, but January 6th, they always bring it up in the oversight hearings. And I argue let's talk about January 6th at that time. Low inflation, good job, jobs, secure border under President Trump. Let's talk about that January 6th. But I want to get your latest on Maduro. What is your take on how that all is going down right now in New York City?
David Brody
Yeah, well, look, there's a lot to unpack. First of all, I think the key is what are they going to do with Delsey Rodriguez there in Venezuela specifically? I mean there's been a lot of talk about, okay, so you went in and got Maduro, but you left Del C. Rodriguez and you left the Defense Minister and the Interior Minister. And you know, but Rubio made a really good point. The Secretary of State who said what, you wanted us to go and get four to five other top guys at the same time. They're all living on different military bases down there. That might have been a little bit more risky, if you will. They wanted to get Maduro and set the tone. But the key question is Delsey Rodriguez is a bad dudess, if you will. Okay, she is not good. I mean, she's basically Maduro's right hand woman. Sorry, with apologies to Maduro's wife, but she's the right hand woman as well in that organization. So look, we know the White House, the administration's calling the shots, but I'm not obviously convinced that Delsey Rodriguez and others, they might play ball for now, but they have for sure ulterior motives. So ultimately I think this is heading towards some sort of free and fair elections. But how long is that going to be? And by the way, real quick we hear about boots on the ground, is it going to happen? Look, how are you going to protect the oil? Someone explain that to me. You're going to need some boots on the ground to protect the oil. That's a problem for this administration. I'm just saying it straight up.
Allison Hans
Yeah. Well, what's ahead on American Sunrise?
David Brody
I have no idea. No, just kidding. Congressman Mark Alford will be here. He's always informative and entertaining, by the way. By the way, one of the best dressed men on television, obviously Brian Glenn, number one, but Mark Alford, number two, guys.
Tim Burchett
So there you go.
Allison Hans
Thank you, David. Thank you, Brian. Goodbye, everyone. Continuing coverage of the fifth anniversary of January 6th continues throughout the day on Real America's voice. Have a fabulous day, everyone. Thanks so much for joining us.
John Strand
This is an I heart podcast.
Allison Hans
Guaranteed human.
Podcast: Real America’s Voice
Host: iHeartPodcasts
Episode: American Sunrise Early Edition – January 6, 2026
Date: January 6, 2026
This special Early Edition of American Sunrise marks the fifth anniversary of January 6th, 2021—the day the U.S. Capitol was stormed. The episode is centered on reflecting upon the legacy of January 6th, what has happened to those involved (the so-called “J6ers”), ongoing demands for accountability, and how the incident continues to shape American politics and media narratives. Interspersed are in-depth discussions on recent political developments including the arrest of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, controversies involving public officials, and a thread of commentary focused on American principles, faith, and freedom.
“As I went to bed last night, I was kind of putting myself like where was I five years ago when this all went down? I remember covering President Trump at the Ellipse … hearing what we would now know as these flashbangs that the Capitol Police set off towards the crowds.”
— Brian Glenn, [02:18]
“January 6th can be accurately understood as our nation's Reichstag Fire moment, our American Reichstag. … it was actually set up and predicated by the government with nefarious intent to assign blame…”
— John Strand, [05:54]
“The real insurrection was a silent coup happening within the deep state uniparty that helped to facilitate this manufactured riot…”
— John Strand, [07:30]
“I was vindicated by the Supreme Court and then fully exonerated when the DOJ vacated all my charges. But before we got to that glorious victory, we had to go through unbelievable persecution.”
— John Strand, [08:46]
“Maduro didn’t look like a dictator… he did look like a beaten down uncle at one of your daughter’s quinceañeras.”
— David Zier, [15:48]
“Our troops are not listening to them at all. We pulled off an amazing mission with Midnight Hammer in Iran … They're not listening to them. These are just disgruntled Democrats …”
— Brian Glenn, [22:29]
“Hetseth called Kelly’s statements on the video, quote, sedacious man. Strong words there, Alison.”
— Brian Glenn, [23:36]
“It was a charade … it was a production, it was pre planned and it was very apparent … it was a horrible day. … you had some very good people caught up in it, but you had some instigators.”
— Tim Burchett, [36:45]
“They tried to indict all of us, if you think about it. … it wasn’t just against the J6ers. It was against the whole movement … and they wanted to crush it. And I think to me that is the big takeaway…”
— David Brody, [43:00]
Brian Glenn on Jan 6 Memory:
“As I went to bed last night, I was…putting myself like where was I five years ago…” [02:18]
John Strand on Patriotism & Entrapment:
“What I remember most is that inescapable feeling of patriotism. ...unfortunately, what happened is we were entrapped. … assaulted by elements of our own government…” [05:20]
John Strand on ‘Reichstag Fire’ Parallel:
“January 6th can be accurately understood as our nation's Reichstag Fire moment, our American Reichstag.” [05:54]
David Zier on Maduro's Court Appearance:
“He did look like a beaten down uncle at one of your daughter's quinceaneras, you know, and he was like, oh, I'm an innocent and good man, you know, in the courtroom.” [15:48]
Brian Glenn on Accountability:
“We must hold Matthew Graves and everyone else and the FBI and the DOJ accountable, the J6 committee, the Democrats that were on that … That was a fed shrection. That was not an insurrection.” [35:27]
Tim Burchett on Investigation:
“It was a charade … it was produced and they had, like a former, I think it was an ABC producer who they brought in … it was a production, it was pre planned…” [36:45]
David Brody on Political Weaponization:
“They tried to indict all of us, if you think about it. … it wasn’t just against the J6ers. It was against the whole movement … and they wanted to crush it.” [43:00]
| Time | Segment Description | |--------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:00 | Episode Introduction, Headlines | | 01:44 | Hosts’ Initial Reflections on Jan 6th, Opening Bible Verse | | 05:09 | Interview: John Strand, J6 “Political Prisoner” | | 12:43 | Venezuela: Arrest & Court Appearance of Nicolás Maduro (David Zier Reporting) | | 20:27 | Military Affairs: Mark Kelly Video, Fallout, and “Chain of Command” Discussion | | 32:56 | Brian Glenn’s Eyewitness Account, Capitol Events, and Outside Agitators | | 36:24 | Interview: Rep. Tim Burchett (TN) on Jan 6th Congressional Experience | | 42:34 | David Brody Joins: Reflections on Media, J6 Legacy, and Moving the Conversation | | 44:30 | Brief Venezuela Segment, Brody Perspective |
This episode of American Sunrise Early Edition is a reflection on the fifth anniversary of January 6th, 2021, seen through the lens of Real America’s Voice. The hosts and guests frame the events of that day as misunderstood, politically weaponized by Democrats, and used as a means to suppress the MAGA movement and patriotic dissent. Featured guest John Strand provides a firsthand account of arrest and incarceration as a January 6th participant, describing an ongoing battle for justice that has spurred him to run for Congress.
Alongside January 6th coverage, the episode branches into current headline events like the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, offering skepticism about the fairness of the U.S. judicial system and its global image, as well as military and government controversies that are framed through a populist-conservative lens. Congressional voices lend credence to the show's claims of cover-up and media manipulation.
Faith, the Constitution, and American values are recurring motifs. Listeners are encouraged to stay vigilant, question official narratives, support new political challengers, and remain united in the fight for “truth, fairness, and a government that plays by its own rules.”