WASHINGTON – Idaho’s two U.S. Senators, Jim Risch and Mike Crapo, joined a bipartisan coalition of 33 Senators in introducing legislation to award Officer Eugene Goodman the Congressional Gold Medal to honor him for his heroic actions on January 6, 2021. Goodman, a U.S. Capitol Police officer, confronted rioters in the Capitol, delaying their access to the Senate chamber and protecting the lives of those inside as they continued to evacuate. Actions similar to Officer Goodman’s were undertaken throughout the Capitol by his fellow U.S. Capitol Police officers and other law enforcement professionals. The bill was introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland).

“Officer Eugene Goodman risked his personal safety to defend the security and potentially the lives of many,” said Senator Risch. “His exceptional courage, presence of mind and heroism in the face of a riot will not be forgotten.  God bless Officer Goodman and the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police for their steadfast service.” 

“The violence we witnessed at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, was wholly unacceptable,” said Senator Crapo. “Officer Eugene Goodman likely saved a number of lives and put his own life at risk by confronting and diverting the mob that broke into the Capitol building. Officer Goodman and the U.S. Capitol Police officers who protected the Capitol building that day deserve our greatest gratitude and respect. It is an honor to join my fellow colleagues in awarding Officer Goodman the Congressional Gold Medal as he is no doubt a testament to its significance in honoring those whose acts have a lasting impact on American history. God bless Officer Goodman, other U.S. Capitol Police, members of the National Guard and other law enforcement, and thank you for your service that day and every day.”

The text of the bill can be found here.

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