News analysis

America's toxic divide explodes and anger likely to remain

Trump supporters clash with police and security forces as they push barricades to storm the US Capitol in Washington on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: AFP
Supporters of US President Donald Trump climbing the walls of the US Capitol during a protest in Washington on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS
A supporter of US President Donald Trump carries a Confederate battle flag inside the Capitol in Washington, after protesters stormed the building on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS
Supporters of US President Donald Trump protest in front of the Capitol in Washington on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: AFP
The US National Guard are seen in the Capitol in Washington after protesters breached the building's security on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: NYTIMES
Supporters of US President Donald Trump protest in front of the Capitol in Washington on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS
Police officers in riot gear are seen holding back protesters after they stormed the US Capitol in Washington on Jan 6, 2021. PHOTO: AFP
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WASHINGTON - For anyone closely following politics in the United States, that a violent mob incited by President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 6) broke into the US Capitol was shocking but not entirely unexpected.

The storming in Washington DC by supporters of Mr Trump in effect seized the US Capitol and derailed the announcement of the next president, sending lawmakers fleeing for cover.

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