Trump attacks Pence as Washington DC erupts in chaos

Donald Trump attacked Mike Pence for defying the president as the US Capitol was placed in lockdown amid the chaos of rioters storming the joint session of Congress.

“Mike Pence didn’t have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution, giving States a chance to certify a corrected set of facts, not the fraudulent or inaccurate ones which they were asked to previously certify,” Mr Trump said in a tweet.

As police and pro-Trump supporters clashed outside Congress’ tally of Electoral College votes, the president continued to stoke his followers, saying: “USA demands the truth!”

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The president’s comments came as Congressional leaders called a surprise recess while pro-Trump rioters stormed the Capitol Building.

Vice president Mike Pence had been presiding over the proceedings after earlier issuing a statement that he lacks legal power to reject the Electoral College votes.

After the violence continued to escalate with multiple buildings evacuated, the president attempted to reign in the out of control mob raiding Capitol in his name.

“Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!” he said in a follow-up tweet.

Washington DC mayor Muriel Bowser issued a city-wide curfew starting at 6pm until Thursday morning.