In a recent interview on MSNBC's The ReidOut, Harry Dunn, a former U.S. Capitol police officer turned congressional candidate, expressed concern about the state of democracy leading up to the 2024 election. Dunn, who gained recognition for his heroic efforts in protecting members of Congress during the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, shared his perspective on the future of democracy and his motivation for entering politics.

Dunn, who served as a Capitol police officer for 15 years, delivered emotional testimony to the bipartisan House select committee investigating the insurrection. He recounted the racial insults he endured while confronting the violent mob. Reflecting on his experience, Dunn warned that democracy could be in jeopardy, stating, "I don't think it's an exaggeration to say we're one election from the extinction of democracy as we know it."

Driven by his commitment to preserving democracy and fighting for the Constitution, Dunn announced his candidacy for Maryland's 3rd Congressional District on Twitter earlier this week. Highlighting the urgency of his decision, Dunn explained that he does not believe he can wait until retirement to actively participate in safeguarding democracy. He expressed his intention to prioritize accountability, justice, and the preservation of democratic principles in his role as a potential congressman.

The heavily Democratic 3rd Congressional District, encompassing Baltimore and Washington, D.C., sets the stage for Dunn's bid for office. While Dunn acknowledged that he does not speak on behalf of the Capitol Police, he emphasized his drive to take action, stating, "I'm not going to sit back and wait for somebody else to do it. Everybody has a role to play, and I believe right now, for this moment, I believe that I'm the person for that job."

In his previous congressional testimony, Dunn shared the racist slurs hurled at him by the rioters, a shocking encounter he had not experienced during his years of service. He has since received counseling for the trauma he endured on that fateful day and authored a New York Times bestseller titled "Standing My Ground," detailing his firsthand experience.

As the aftermath of the insurrection continues to unfold, more than 1,230 individuals have faced federal charges linked to the riot, with over 730 pleading guilty and approximately 170 convicted in trials overseen by judges or juries. Notably, former President Donald Trump has been indicted on four counts by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for his alleged role in attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election leading up to the Capitol riot. A trial is scheduled for March 4, 2024.

Dunn's dedication and courage have been recognized with awards, including the Congressional Gold Medal in December 2022 and the Presidential Citizens Medal on January 6, 2023.

Running to succeed Representative John Sarbanes, who announced his retirement last year, Dunn expressed his eagerness to work alongside Republicans in Congress who dispute the events of January 6. He expressed a desire to have a seat at the table and be treated as an equal, planning to deliver speeches and introduce legislative proposals.

As the 2024 election approaches, Dunn's candidacy embodies a relentless commitment to democracy and calls for accountability. His warnings serve as a reminder of the ongoing importance of safeguarding the principles upon which the nation was built.