Oregon state Rep. Marty Wilde, D-Eugene, says the violence at the U.S. Capitol Wednesday was nothing short of a coup attempt. But he says he’s confident Oregon lawmakers can have a safe legislative session in Salem.
Wilde is entering his second term in Salem. He said the riots in Washington DC were an act of domestic terrorism. "It was an attempt to overthrow the legitimately elected government of the United States," he said. “Fortunately it was incompetently executed and quickly suppressed, but it was very dangerous.
Wilde serves in the Air National Guard. He said the Oregon capitol, which has seen its share of violent protests recently, is well prepared for the upcoming session.
“We have very good security. I’m very happy with the State Troopers, and they do a good job,” he said.
Newly elected and re-elected lawmakers will take the oath of office in Salem on Monday.