Fact Check: Kelley claims he was 'fighting for my country' during the Capitol riots.

What We Know

Ryan Kelley, a former Republican candidate for governor of Michigan, was involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. During the events, Kelley reportedly expressed his belief that he was "fighting for my country" while participating in the riot. According to a sentencing memorandum filed in court, Kelley admitted to entering the Capitol with the intention of protesting the certification of the 2020 presidential election results, which he and many others believed were fraudulent. His actions during the riot included standing by as a livestream of the event was broadcasted on social media.

The court documents indicate that Kelley was aware of the unlawful nature of his actions, as he acknowledged that he knew they were entering the Capitol illegally. This admission aligns with his claim of fighting for his country, as he framed his actions within the context of a patriotic duty to challenge what he perceived as an unjust political process.

Analysis

Kelley's claim of "fighting for my country" is rooted in his expressed beliefs and motivations during the Capitol riots. The reliability of the sources supporting this claim is high, particularly the court documents, which provide a formal account of Kelley's actions and statements. The United States District Court documents detail Kelley's involvement and his mindset during the events of January 6, 2021, reinforcing the context in which he made his claim.

However, it is essential to consider the broader implications of Kelley's statement. While he may genuinely believe he was acting in defense of his country, this perspective is controversial and widely debated. Many view the Capitol riots as an attack on democracy rather than a patriotic act. Thus, while Kelley's assertion reflects his personal conviction, it does not necessarily align with the views of the broader public or legal interpretations of his actions.

Additionally, Kelley's motivations can be seen as part of a larger narrative among some participants in the Capitol riots, who framed their actions as a defense of American values against perceived threats. This context does not diminish the legality of their actions, which were deemed unlawful by the courts.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
Ryan Kelley did claim he was "fighting for my country" during the Capitol riots, as evidenced by court documents and his own admissions. While the claim reflects his personal beliefs and motivations, it is important to recognize that this perspective is contested and does not universally represent patriotic actions in the eyes of the law or public opinion.

Fact Check: Kelley claims he was 'fighting for my country' during the Capitol riots.