WASHINGTON — Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is endorsing former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn in his run for Congress.
“Harry Dunn is a proven, patriotic leader with a deep understanding of the issues facing Maryland, a state we both grew up in and both love. I am proud to endorse Harry Dunn for Congress, confident in
his ability to deliver real results for the people of Maryland's 3rd District.” Speaker Pelosi said in a statement.
Dunn was raised in Maryland before becoming a Capitol Police Officer. He served for 15 years until the insurrection on January 6, 2021. Dunn, along with other Capitol Officers, protected the Capitol building from a mob of insurrectionists.
“I saw Officer Dunn’s courage firsthand in the face of unprecedented violence and insurrection on January 6th, when he stood firm to protect the Capitol, the Constitution and democracy itself. I am personally grateful for the life-saving protection that he provided to my staff, to me and to so many others in the Capitol.” Speaker Pelosi said.
In 2021, Harry Dunn and three other law enforcement officers testified before the bipartisan January 6th Committee, where he shared his account of what he experienced that day.
In recognition of Officer Dunn’s role in protecting the U.S. Capitol, President Joe Biden awarded him the Presidential Citizens Medal. The medal is the second-highest award a civilian can get and is given by the president to “U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens.”
Officer Dunn said at the time, “I think it’s important to note that I accept this medal not as a Capitol Hill Police Officer, a job I have held for 15 years. Rather, I am here as an American.”
In a statement released by Dunn, he thanked Pelosi for her endorsement.
“I am deeply honored to receive Speaker Pelosi's endorsement in this race. Her long family history of service to communities in Maryland has inspired my journey and it’s part of the reason why I'm in
this race. Her unwavering commitment to advancing the values we hold dear as Marylanders serves as an inspiration to me and countless others.”