J6er Ashli Babbitt’s Death Became a Weapon

Crowd storming a building entrance with flags and signs.

A false claim threatens to mislead many about Ashli Babbitt’s death, sparking debate on media integrity and political narratives.

Story Overview

No credible sources confirm Gallego’s alleged statement about Babbitt.
Babbitt was shot while trying to enter a restricted area during the Capitol riot.
Official investigations ruled the shooting as lawful use of force.
The story highlights the dangers of misinformation in political discourse.

Allegations and Facts

Recent claims suggest that Senator Ruben Gallego stated Ashli Babbitt “died trying to kill cops and elected officials.” However, thorough searches reveal no credible sources verifying this statement. The narrative appears to be fueled by unverified social media chatter, lacking any primary sourcing. It is essential to distinguish between fact and fiction, particularly in politically charged contexts.

Babbitt, a U.S. Air Force veteran and Trump supporter, was shot on January 6, 2021, by a Capitol Police officer while attempting to breach a barricaded door to the Speaker’s Lobby. This incident occurred amidst the Capitol riot, where rioters were trying to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election results. Official investigations concluded that the officer acted lawfully, citing an immediate threat to lawmakers being evacuated.

Background and Context

Ashli Babbitt’s death has become a rallying point for some conservatives, who see her as a martyr. The Capitol attack followed a rally by then-President Trump, alleging election fraud. During the riot, Babbitt was among those trying to break into the Speaker’s Lobby, leading to the fatal shooting. The Department of Justice closed its investigation in 2021, ruling the shooting a lawful action to protect officials.

The narrative around Babbitt’s death often involves misinformation, which has been used to stir political sentiments. It is important to rely on verified facts and credible sources to avoid spreading falsehoods that can further polarize an already divided political landscape.

Current Developments and Implications

As of early 2026, no new statements from Senator Gallego have emerged regarding Ashli Babbitt’s death. The U.S. Air Force has granted Babbitt military funeral honors as of August 2025, reversing a previous decision. This action has provided some closure for her family and supporters. Annual commemorations continue among her supporters, emphasizing her symbolic role in ongoing political debates.

Politically, Babbitt’s death continues to be a point of contention, symbolizing broader debates on police use-of-force and political violence. Her death is frequently referenced in ongoing trials related to the January 6th riot. The event underscores the importance of accurate media reporting and the perils of misinformation, which can skew public perception and fuel divisive rhetoric.