Speaker of the House (2011-2015) · Congressional Leadership · 1991-2015

John Boehner

Republican Congress
Summary

Former Speaker of the House who called the January 6 Capitol attack a 'bloody insurrection' and has been sharply critical of Trump's role in it. Boehner, who led House Republicans for nearly a decade, represents the traditional conservative Republican establishment that has been marginalized under Trump.

In Their Own Words

Key Statements

That bloody insurrection for nothing other than selfish reasons, perpetrated by so-called patriots who trespassed and trashed and tried to take over the Capitol.
April 13, 2021 · On the House memoir
Discussing January 6 attack in his memoir
Donald Trump, in my view, helped create this environment.
· USA Today interview
On Trump's role in creating conditions for January 6
Why This Matters

Credibility & Background

Analysis

Reasons for Opposition

  1. 01 Holds Trump responsible for creating conditions that led to January 6 insurrection
  2. 02 Believes Trump has damaged the Republican Party and American democracy
  3. 03 Concerned about Trump's undermining of democratic norms and institutions
  4. 04 Troubled by Trump's divisive rhetoric and conspiracy theories
View All Critics

Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.