Democracy on Trial: Rusty Bowers (interview) | FRONTLINE

Rusty Bowers served as Arizona’s speaker of the House from 2019-23. He testified before the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol and received a John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage award in 2022.
The following interview was conducted by Kirk Documentary Group’s Mike Wiser for FRONTLINE on Oct. 20, 2023. It has been edited for clarity and length.
This interview is being published as part of FRONTLINE’s Transparency Project, an effort to open up the source material behind our documentaries. Explore the transcript of this interview, and others, on the FRONTLINE website: www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/in...
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[@frontline]

This interview is being published as part of FRONTLINE’s Transparency Project, an effort to open up the source material behind our documentaries. Explore more interviews from "Democracy on Trial" here: kzbin.info/aero/PL_pPc6-qR9ZyWnFlH6G5Ph_r_PKmNs0wG

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

We MUST REMEMBER, never allowing ourselves to be so ignorant & foolish!!

[@stevenbobrooks9679]

At least someone cares on truth and honor

[@Matt-pt6rl]

Great to hear about Frontline Transparency Project , let’s get 9/11 episode out and finally talk truth about the events that caused thousands of deaths

[@richardfiorentino3951]

I love this interview - I wonder if my friends and family who are Trump followers (I voted for Trump in 2020 because I wanted Biden to run for President after Obama) not sure why Hilary was chosen ? Trump is a opportunist and so am I and he is an amazing strategist (that year 2016) to run against Hillary - I still am confused how or why was Hilary nominated and where was BIDEN why did he not run ?

[@Matt-pt6rl]

@@sve8140 in Iran , he keeps mentioning it

[@georgewarner7210]

I am a complete democrat and a very liberal 40 year old man. And I’m 100% positive that there are a lot of policy issues that Rusty Bowers and I would disagree on. But I think this man is a great American hero! His testimony at the Jan 6th hearing brought me to tears and it’s a shame that there aren’t more people like him in office. I can’t imagine that I would ever vote for too many on his side of the isle…but based on integrity alone, I wouldn’t mind if he was a high up official somewhere in my district or in the United States Government. The Republican Party is ridiculous right now and for the sake of this country I wish it was filled with people like Rusty Bowers. He’s a good man who cares about this country and about what’s right…and that’s clear when he tells his story.

[@fs5775]

brought me to tears too and I'm a democrat. i'm honored to share my nationality with Rusty, he's a great American

[@OHAli]

Feel the exact same way. We need more republicans with integrity like Rusty Bowers. He respects the constitution (what we hope for but can no longer expect for all elected officials)!

[@tomretallick1719]

I’m with you sir. I haven’t felt that stirring in my gut for a long time, that sense that somewhere inside of us is a bond that is more than love of country, it’s the responsibility of giving your word. An oath that’s an old fashioned way of life that sadly has to many have no time for. Mr Trump counted on unscrupulous people to help him in lawyers dirty work, thankfully they ran up against folks who still remember what integrity looks and feels like.👍

[@diannef315]

I have never voted for a republican and never will, but I admire this republican greatly.

[@Stretesky]

It’s not how charming or appealing reps are, it’s what people stand for in policy and support, including other candidates. The biggest problem with voting style is wanting to be entertained or be won by persona, over what laws are supported or put in place. No one has time to look into what their lives depend on. That makes choosing rotten tomatoes popular, including the status quos of abuses and cultural violence, not highlighted in talks. Vital information is conveniently omitted, while people believe they they vote for someone who could be their buddy or thinks like them. These are the oldest manipulations strategies in the books. This is how we get voters that support people that harm and destroy their personal interests, livelihoods and lives, not to mention most everyone else too. Then civilians look around wondering why little works well and so many things are not working for for most, and minority is royally served. Even all of that doesn’t motivate people to become active citizens. Life is not a lived in the bleachers.

[@DavidTarekLifestyle]

Proud of you Sir. Not as a Republican, but as an American!!

[@h.h.4408]

Me too!!! 👍👌👏💪

[@CampaignSeasonIsOn]

Using the white power emoji says you're confused ​@@h.h.4408

[@juliewhite7469]

🇺🇲🗽🇺🇲🗽🇺🇲

[@charlescarter3595]

During his testimony before Congress, even after listing all of Trump's crimes, RUSTY BOWERS testified he will still vote for Trump. I don't know why this wasn't included in the puff piece.

[@vickilawrence7207]

Absolutely

[@rosap4043]

I’m 69 and grew up in Az. I am a retired attorney and Democrat who felt proud to know that Rusty Bowers is a patriot that respects the law!

[@scottperry9581]

I just turned 70 and have lived in Arizona for the past 20 years. I am not a Republican and do not respect the party here, but I have immense respect and gratitude for you and your integrity.

[@wellokayyes1266]

I’m sure you believe Katie Hobbs really won too right lmao.

[@johnwebster76]

​@@wellokayyes1266 Kari Lake put forth the same evidence. You people need to grow up. Do you think the National Inquirer is a legitimate news source? That's just how you guys sound

[@DDEENY]

@bster76 There is much evidence supporting the notion that President Kennedy's assassination was wrought by a conspiracy, but almost nobody cares. We're talking about a genuine coup d'etat, the only one in U.S. history. This ought to be of utmost importance because it will likely happen again. Many people believe that Donald Trump's 2020 election was stolen, and many people believe that Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President Kennedy. It's difficult to confront the fact that so many Americans are so gullible but that's because they're also lazy, unintelligent and indifferent and thus easily fooled.

[@DDEENY]

Rusty Bowers has done something quite rare in this world - HE RESISTED THE DEVIL. _"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."_ (James 4:7) Rusty Bowers is the victor.

[@michaelFat2112]

@@DDEENYcouldn’t have said it better. The only thing necessary for evil to triumph in the world is that good men do nothing

[@tomretallick1719]

I’m 66 and remember the Watergate hearings, when Republicans and Democrats together remembered their oath and put partisanship aside to keep the Republic on a higher plain. Mr. Bowers’ children will be eternally proud of their father’s willingness to stand on principle. Mr McConnell, Mr Cruz, Mr Scott and the rest of the complaisant GOP I hope you’re watching, because that’s what public service should look like.

[@briancusick3514]

Amen to that!

[@amybock6499]

But the corrupt can't care. They are incapable of understanding what is just and what is unjust. The corrupt only know how to serve their own egos and lusts, nothing else.

[@debrajonet1497]

Yes, and what has happened to the GOP? They don't stand for anything Democratic any longer.

[@marielacharite-io5iq]

There’s no more bi partisan

[@mainely8007]

@@marielacharite-io5iqIt started with Reagan and Gingrich who insisted the Republicans stop having comity with Democrats - he literally called state governors and told them to stop doing events where both sides would have dinner or barbecues together. The Republicans treated the Democrats like pure evil, enemies that must be destroyed; democratic party members would extend a hand of friendship to the Republicans and they would pull back a bloody stump. The Democratic party have decided to fight back and the right wing crybabies can't handle it - they can dish it but they can't take it.

[@johnfrench3195]

Impressive in his humility, sense of humour and it is really good to see somebody with integrity. Gives me hope for all of us.

[@dragosapina5692]

Yes, but where is Kate?

[@conniekimble1782]

I so wish every single dump supporter was forced to sit and listen to this great interview.

[@olenfersoi8887]

Sure...but still an ultra-conservative sc*mbag who, though he did not violate his oath by supporting Trmp's tactics to steal an election, still approves of doing so by gerrymandering, and agrees with rigging the courts with corrupt judges who are happy to violate THEIR oaths. Such people don't reserve respect just because they do 1 or 2 ethical things in their life.

[@DDEENY]

I can't put this video down. I need to watch this over and over and over to quell my cynicism re: American politics. Finally I feel hopeful again.

[@PoggeB13]

I'm a liberal Democrat. My admiration for you is off the charts. Every country loving, democracy loving American who, like me, took an oath to protect the Constitution owes you a debt. God bless.

[@jitendraTejani]

Proud of you Mr. Rusty, Your integrity has kept our democracy intact.

[@ColorOfExcellence]

Glad oaths still matter to some people.

[@fs5775]

it shouldn't be rare but sadly it is. they don't make most of 'em like Rusty

[@LeeePowers]

MAGA are the only RINOs

[@lisacarracino3393]

Without an oath to that contract, we don't have America. That's all that is holding us together, I just pray there are enough of us to keep it.

[@johntodd8854]

It makes you wonder, and myself fearful, exactly how many stats electors were changed over to dubious MAga party members the past four years. How many years long devoted election board workers were purged and how many volunteer poll workers had been intimidated to leave by cult Trump supporters over the past four years. Perhaps in states such as Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Georgia have cannibalized their election counting process in favor of MagA " do gooders" who so much believe our Savior is Donald Trump that they would be less than honest in promoting a fair and lawful election...... remember, there are within the MAga elite power brokers who had already tried last time around to replace duly elected state voting reps with their own choices in order to pay service to their MagaGod Trump. These people are not normal. They are 100% committed to getting their leader elected and for some, that means any action they may devise is justified to "save the country"..

[@WiseNationalSocialism]

I think this guys of ofsh it.

[@cmeeblkout]

I'm from AZ and still live here and Rusty is by far a Hero! Thank you for your service Sir

[@theresapotter]

Congressman Bowers, listening to your words & watching this video, today/March 10, 2024, was truly a healing experience for me. God bless you. You are an angel.

[@rap4880]

"Yeah, there's fraud that happens, people cheat, it happens, but to do something of this magnitude...it doesn't just take me, or the director, it takes thousands and thousands of people to do this. It didn't happen." Thank you, Mr. Bowers.

[@joylightclub]

Integrity. This is why I believe folks like Rusty will prevail and see off the charlatans.

[@solarwind907]

Integrty? He voted for Trump. Trump would sell his own mother down the river. Just another natural resource extraction at all cost Republican. I wonder where he’ll move to when Arizona is too hot to live?

[@jeansherwood2428]

Millions of Americans don't seem to like integrity anymore.

[@charlescarter3595]

During his testimony before Congress, even after listing all of Trump's crimes, RUSTY BOWERS testified he will still vote for Trump. I don't know why this wasn't included in the puff piece.

[@Junkinsally]

Dude has zero integrity! He just said he voted for Trump knowing who and what he was BECAUSE of his Supreme Court picks!!! He admitted he was wanting to enact social change. He’s dancing around it claiming he wasn’t “a party guy” and clean water is his “thing”. He’s an old man used to get more opportunities than he’s actually qualified for because of the patriarchy and wants desperately to continue that backward thinking. Just because he’s smart enough to know that if he went along with Trump election tampering his butt would be held accountable so he said “enough i’m out” absolutely doesn’t make him a hero or good person.

[@desertdetroiter428]

Integrity?

[@DreadedEgg]

Rusty Bowers is a patriot.

[@timfuscaldo3024]

No kidding!!

[@glenofthenorth8292]

Every MAGA Republican believes that they are patriots as well, but the problem is ... they're idiots! I'm neither an Arizonan nor an American, bu what I like about Rusty is that he is a down to earth, common sense kinda guy. My sense is that he is honest as well. I would vote for him if I had a franchise ... and I sincerely hope that Americans can somehow fix their country in the aftermath of the debacle that was their most recent presidential federal election.

[@richardfiorentino3951]

I did not know about Rusty and I wonder how many other men have that level of integrity THANK YOU RUSTY FOR BEING A REAL MAN OF YOUR WORD AND A KNIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY

[@paisleyjane14]

Talk about changing peoples minds on the character or lack thereof of politicians! Proves to all of us that generalizations that lead to stereotypes, serve no one.

[@thereseevavonzweydorf9797]

Hats off to Rusty Bowers. Have seen him in the hearings and I was impressed. Greeting from Germany to this gentleman.

[@debrajonet1497]

Mr. Rusty Bower you truely are a good man for standing up for the truth and the Constitution. I applaud you!

[@leslieparris7866]

Best sentence at 1:09:30: "There are people that are totally happy with ignorance... and to upset their view, I can't help them." 👏👏👏

[@panoptos4163]

Frontline should win all the awards this year-really raised the bar.

[@gazjaz2010]

they been producing top quality for decades now, but ok ... congrats on finding em

[@panoptos4163]

@@gazjaz2010 snide comments welcome. I’ve watched 30+ years worth, and these last two seasons are qualitatively different in terms of the production and investigative work. Congrats on being a douche.

[@diannef315]

​@@gazjaz2010Agreed, especially about economics

[@PedroBrando]

Legacy media outlets are going of business and laying off employees in record numbers.

[@user-cd2ut4fx1m]

Mainstream nonsense

[@erniefabregas2619]

Mister Rusty Bower you're a true American Patriot , God bless you Sir , Thank you for your Service to The American People & Our Constitution , America is not just a place it's a people

[@len2842]

A christian can be a political patriarch? .. Jesus said to the one who owns it all' -Matthew 4:8-10; .. what political party' was Jesus affiliation? Who did Jesus advocate for' Paul warnes of false trachers like ones at -2Timothy 3:1-7; of early concern' "8" of Galatians 1: 1 - eight;

[@johntodd8854]

Rusty Bowers is not unlike the very vast of honest election officials around our whole country who takes and stands by their path of service. SINCE the election four years ago, I'm not so sure that can or will be said of some of our Maga replacement officials in high election positions. No wonder Trump acts so entitled, stubborn and self assured at his trials. He KNOWS the fix is in at selected statewide turnover locations where he has been assured his flunky officials are "in place" too deliver winning results, They've had 4yrs to "make a difference" for Trump! He has everything riding on it and seems pretty cocky he will overcome this time..... honestly or dishonestly.

[@johntodd8854]

​@@len2842Oh, no doubt Jesus would be a full blown leftist Democrat. Definitely would be in the MAga churches giving them a piece of his mind!!

[@erniefabregas2619]

@len2842 Yeah Jesus would warn us of those who falsified that thier The Chosen one who would grab women by thier private parts because of who he is , 3 time Adulterer , Con man , a charlatan , Jesus called them Den of Vipers , Generations of Vipers , how can ye , being evil , speak good things , for our of the abundance of the heart speaketh - Matthew 12:34

[@alwayslernin4400]

Thank you Frontline for another unbiased and open interview. You have the best interviews because you ask the questions we all have and then let them answer fully. I've just recently heard of Mr. Bowers and did not know until now what he was put through for his integrity. It makes me so proud to have him and people like him in my country but it also makes me want to cry to see the pain the republicans have caused to the lives and friendships to people that love their country and to do all that damage without a care just for their ego and greed. Seeing all the Americans standing for our constitution gives me more hope. The real patriots salute you Mr. Bowers. You made our country proud.

[@Rebeca-sd1md]

What a wonderful, inspiring, and touching interview! I don't say this lightly. I don't agree politically with Mr Rusty, but very few times in my life have I watched such an interview like this one. Genuine respect and admiration for a real and American patriot and hero! I love his sense of humor as well. Too bad people like him are now a rarity in the Republican party. Thank you for this great interview!

[@sideeye7958]

Thanks for not interrupting Mr. Rusty as he was speaking 🗣️

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

Lol.....

[@ryanreedgibson]

PBS always posts the full interview for everyone. I wish other outlets would as well but they only use interviews to support their own narrative.

[@goodwillcooking1801]

@@ryanreedgibson Everyone knows they do this because of their liberal bias... /s

[@alfhodges3915]

?@@goodwillcooking1801

[@ryanreedgibson]

@@goodwillcooking1801 Literally the most neutral news in the country. But this isn't about sides. Conservatism is dead in America. Now it's the cult of leader.

[@mayito9100]

A man has the confidence to take his losses with dignity. A man is humble and does not cower in the face of defeat. A man stands by his word alone and doesn't feel a need to force others. A man leads by example, not force, nor through threats or violence. A man is not a coward and doesn't cry just because others are different. A man defends those who are less able to defend themselves. A man never kicks down at those with less power.

[@oil_can]

Based on that definition, Rusty Bowers is a man. But Donald Trump isn’t.

[@Chris-mb5lh]

love it....

[@FilmCricket9]

I am such a fan of his now. Such honesty and integrity. I wish all Republicans could be like him.

[@Schatzie301]

Im not a Republican and do not live in Arizona but I am so grateful for you and the others who spoke truth to power. You are a hero. It would have been so easy to go along with this. It took great courage and integrity to stand up for what is right. Thank you!

[@moceri55]

Here is a guy walking through Washington looking at all the statues and art of great Americans that he admires who played a pivotal roll in this countries history probably not ever thinking that he is among them. Thank you Honorable Mr. Bowers. I may not align with you politically but our mutual love of this country unites us as brothers. Thank you, all I can say is thank you.

[@stephaniec3722]

I'm with you on that!

[@missrose0077]

It makes me think of the hard right maga people currently in Congress and wonder if they see any of those things.

[@monsue7056]

​@@missrose0077 IMO NO they don't.

[@lhoward9593]

​@@missrose0077They just want to "burn it all down."

[@moceri55]

MAGA is willing to sink the ship to kill the captain when that captain is a Democrat.

[@paristexassaigon]

Thank you so very much Rusty Bowers for your courage and integrity. You are obviously a good man. I wish the best for you and your family.

[@lindabalent2755]

He is more of a real Republican, real Conservative,...which Trump and MAGA is not!

[@aesea57804]

This man is such a breath of fresh air. Straightforward, honest, intelligent, solid integrity, speaks clearly, can sort out the key issues and make a plan. “I got a subpoena and off we go.” No whining, straight respect for the law. And his humor! What a blessing. He was voted out. That is a humiliation for his state.

[@user-xt3yz2wt1b]

I'm a very keen observer of US politics living in the UK. We tend to watch in despair from our little island at what is happening to a country that we see as our greatest friend and leader of the cause of democracy. It was heart-warming to see that there remains in the GOP people that have the integrity of Rusty Bowers (Brad Raffensperger et al). I once used to teach a uni course on the Enlightenment, and a big element of that concentrated upon the Founding Fathers and the Constitution they developed enshrining the democratic principles the Enlightenment thinkers risked their lives to espouse. Please God let the individuals prepared to defend the astonishing legacy bequeathed by the Founding Fathers ultimately triumph over the appalling threat to US Democracy posed by the MAGA mob.

[@chrissmyth2402]

Thank you, Mr Bowers. One hour, fourteen minutes, thirty-seven seconds of sanity.

[@billwalsh388]

It's nice to know that not all republicans were all in on the corrupt bargain.

[@heynow01]

​@@billwalsh388Lol, couldn't be more obvious. Just look at the ballot signatures, clown. This guy dismissed every single issue and knew he was lying about it, but kept up his cover very well, in spite of the facts proving them false. He called the audit a farce, but doesn't mention that his election buddies covered up the fake ballots and the fake signatures. They fought and fought so hard against an audit and after they finally agreed they deleted the log files and had massive chain of custody missing seals and incorrect counts. This guy took an oath to the constitution. He saw how his election people and the BOS Republicans refused to turn over the router traffic files claiming it was private because the sheriff used it too.

[@heynow01]

For this fool to not understand that only in red precincts the in person voters were told to use the provided sharpie to mark their ballots knowing full well that the ballot paper they were using was the light weight and allowed bleed through and made the ballot get rejected in the tabulator. Then no matter how many times you did it, it would get rejected. After the 3rd time the election person would have you fill out a new ballot, which would also fail because they kept insisting on using a sharpie. At that point you had to leave your ballot to be adjudicated by someone behind closed doors. The counting of the votes showed impossible spikes of virtually every vote being for Creepy. The kind of spikes that indicate the ballots are not real.

[@Toquer88]

​@@billwalsh388The Democrats are corrupt as the day is long.

[@melissaverduin3693]

Thank you Rusty...🙏 for telling the truth & keeping your oath to the Constitution and our country!🇺🇸

[@tonyodalaigh7993]

What a joy to listen to this honest man tell his story. It’s wonderful that he says with pride that he is a believer. May God continue to shower him and his family with many blessings for the rest of his days. Margaret from Ireland☘️

[@cherylecaneda9457]

I’m very proud of you and I don’t even know you, not because I’m a demo and you a Republican, truth is truth and you did it with integrity 🤙👍🏼😌thank you🙏

[@diannadima7082]

Bless you Rusty Bowers, Please don't be silent. You have been truthful. Iam sorry for the retribuction you have recieved from your testimony. I am so moved by your coming forward. I pray that those who have been corrupt by the t rump rhetoric I pray that they will see the truth before it is too late. America does not want a dictator. Please America wake up. What a powerful testimoney Rusty Bowers has just produced. I pray you will listen up. God keep America SAFE!!!

[@charlescarter3595]

During his testimony before Congress, even after listing all of Trump's crimes, RUSTY BOWERS testified he will still vote for Trump. I don't know why this wasn't included in the puff piece.

[@debrajonet1497]

Yes! No dictators in America! We are better as a Nation without it!

[@mickilicyes5399]

​@@charlescarter3595After listening to this interview, I find that hard to believe, but even if this is true it doesn't negate his testimony. Im curious what your agenda is here, I have seen you post this several times.

[@charlescarter3595]

@@mickilicyes5399 I didn't say it negates testimony I just said he still supports Trump

[@mickilicyes5399]

@@charlescarter3595 And? He still did a great service to our country by testifying.

[@judydyer]

Absolutely wonderful human being. A true American. On the same level as J. Michael Luttig.

[@user-eq8ui4ln4f]

THIS MANS FAMILY MUST BE REALLY PROUD OF HIM INTEGRITY DECENCY TRUTH IF ONLY THERE WERE MORE LIKE HIM WHAT A RESPECTABLE DECENT PRESIDENT HE WOULD MAKE

[@thomasw.5344]

[@kathleencassel368]

God bless you for standing up for the constitution

[@coloradotrish7297]

Love long-running, factual Frontline! Support Frontline please. Thank you Mr. Bowers for upholding our essential constitution and not bowing down to all the HUGE amount of pressure that came from the highest office in the U.S. Thank you for testifying so thoroughly on Jan. 6. Be well, from Colorado.

[@lewisstreet7266]

Amazing! Rusty embodies the best of American “spirit” and “values”!

[@karynleigh7792]

I'm so proud of you for what you did! How you stuck to your oath! I'm also glad to see how you are able to laugh about it today! As an Arizonan for the last 40+ years, thank you for your many years of diligent service! Thank you for being the smart, educated man that you are, who didn't fall for all of Trump's BS!

[@kimmurphy5107]

Thankyou Rusty Bowers for being who you are! Your strength and honesty should shine in our historical records all the way to the stars!!!

[@noryzola1770]

Wow! Rusty Bowers, im glad you bring this up. Thank you for your honesty.

[@CurtOntheRadio]

God bless Rusty. Laughter and tears and impeccable integrity. Thank you.

[@lewisstreet7266]

Rusty is a nice intelligent honest REPUBLICAN👏

[@loge10]

Unfortunately, a rarity in this most scary of electoral seasons...

[@loantran-thanh7795]

So rare nowadays. The man is a diamond shining through

[@laurameans7904]

Thank you for your Service Rusty Bowers for your Honor & Integrity and Oath to our Country 🇺🇲 Many Blessings 🙏🕊️

[@megantaylor4189]

A riveting interview. I found it incredibly moving. Bravo Rusty Bowers.

[@Dusk2898]

All I can say, right now, is, WOW!! We should be having him talk at schools to our children. Wonderful.❤

[@soniaprovard8259]

This was excellent!! Speaker Bowers is a man of integrity & I feel immense gratitude to know that God-fearing men are alive & well in 2024! Godspeed, Rusty!!🙏🏻😍

[@user-eq8ui4ln4f]

Compare this man too speaker LYING CONIVING JOHNSON

[@pamelaboyack8390]

Thank you, Rusty Bowers. You are a man a deep integrity. May God bless America.

[@sarahzwolle4107]

Thank you Mr speaker.God bless you and your family ❤ from the Netherlands.

[@virginiatyree6705]

Great interview. Thanks Frontline for posting and helping to save the USA Republic.

[@teddyjackson1902]

Trump is winning in all major polling.

[@saraharrison6836]

I was watching live J6 as I had tuned in to watch the certification. I watched Bowers' testimony before the J6 committee. I had so much respect for him during his testimony. I have never voted GOP in my life. But, i felt so compelled by Bower as a rational and honorable human being. My impressions about J6 and Bowers dont originate in media or party manipulation. They are my own reactions to that which j witnessd through citizen participation. By watching live sources as they occur. I listen to the pundits AFTER watching government events as they occur. Massive respect, Rusty.

[@nettwench]

It really highlights to me how much the news media has perpetuated so much chaos and confusion, instead of the honest, simple truth from Mr. Bowers. This is not complicated. It's black and white. There's no two sides and different opinions. There's truth or lies. This is the candor and no-nonsense witnessing we used to get from people like Walter Cronkite, Harry Reasoner, Dan Rather. Integrity and moral clarity, not noise. This should be the standard, not the rare exception.

[@teddyjackson1902]

How about the infiltration of Jan 6 by the security state. Does that have any bearing on your “feelings”?

[@saraharrison6836]

@teddyjackson1902 well, I "feel" as if people don't get infiltrated by FBI unless they are engaged in criminal activities. I "feel" that if someone breaks the law because he "feels" like doing it - then he still belongs in prison. I "feel" as if any jacka$$ who doesn't know what Sedition is - should "feel" like staying home rather than "feeling" like trying to get involved in the politics of this country. I "feel" as if people who stand up for J6 traitors need to "feel" like sitting down and letting the adults speak.

[@emm8357]

@@teddyjackson1902tinfoil hat a bit tight?

[@teddyjackson1902]

@@emm8357 my eyes are simply open.

[@TheMarialm66]

Another good one. Thank you Mr. Bowers for having the courage to stand firm. We won’t forget you.

[@jerrypeppler1484]

Amazing. A moving interview. This good man encapsulates decency, honor and duty. Simple and clear, with no small degree of profundity his words engender enduring hope for the country.

[@martinkaranja4208]

Gentleman with great integrity, honor and courage 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@tossempossum4886]

A man who stands his ground.. And knows the Constitution..

[@eachlovediva]

This interview was touching and I thank Rusty for his integrity and strength and for doing the right thing under pressure. If telling the truth makes some friends unhappy then they’re not the friends you want or deserve. Peace comes with knowing and being your true self and that integrity gives all of us hope. ♥️

[@vaughn686]

I love this guy!! Honest and true but at the same time funny, very personable. I almost wonder if this was the highlight of his day that day. His testimony during the hearing was amazing.

[@tomretallick1719]

Very on point with his dire warnings about truth and the end of our democracy. Thank you Mr. Bower and PBS for another insightful long interview.

[@diannadima7082]

God Bless you Rusty Bower. I met youm once. You are an honerable person. Sorry for your distress because of this fascist.. Stand proud.

[@HISBestLifeCoach]

The same fascist he voted for and said he will vote for again?

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

Joe Biden has exhibited far more fascist traits than Trump. But you have been too brain washed by your country's mainstream media to see it right in front of you.

[@anncarmichael4105]

"What does it mean to swear [an] oath?" worth a larger public discussion! Well done, Speaker Bowers.

[@IanBPM]

I saw his interview in the Democracy on Trial documentary and I am impressed with Mr. Rusty Bowers.

[@jodywho6696]

Thank you for standing up for TRUTH. ✨🇺🇸✨

[@nealhood7706]

We the people need Rusty for every thing

[@corazontoh9334]

Congratulations, Mr. Rusty Bowers, I’ve listened to your interview God bless you for following your guts and your protocols. God Bless you and your family Sir.

[@caleblambo162]

As a 'Reagan Conservative', men like THIS are the ONLY thing that let me keep a SLIVER of faith in our democracy.. Remember his name..

[@fs5775]

God he's a good man. I feel encouraged to know that people like Rusty Bowers exist. And I'm not even Republican. But he's a good person. This interview made me cry with him.

[@DanielJones-wj7mm]

If Speaker Rusty Bower writes a book, I will definitely buy and read it. He is an honorable man and I would like to know his story of how he grew up and what undergirds his MORAL Compass which led him to stand by his Oath to the Constitution. Little did he know that he single handedly save our REPUBLIC, these United States. Nothing but respect and prayers for abundant blessings to an honorable man. This Great Nation owes him a debt of gratitude. A true Son of the Land. Why In this world does he not run for PRESIDENT. We need him.

[@judydyer]

Check him on Wikipedia. Interesting....

[@MrMrJennings]

I would buy the book also.

[@Trish-ur5xk]

David Feldman Show on YT is interesting & I highly recommend ‘Beau Of the Fifth Column” … a calm smart commonsensical man ☮️ ✌️

[@trueseattleite6958]

Thank you for these interviews! I'm addicted to watching all of them! This one is definitely one of my favorites!

[@user-qo3jh9mn1t]

When the choice time comes, you only need to listen to the voice in your heart. Then do the right thing. Thank you, Mr. Bowers.

[@goatthulu6662]

Rusty is a great storyteller. I haven't laughed out loud in a long time and when he hangs up on the President I nearly spit my coffee all over my monitor. Thanks for posting these full interviews.

[@nettwench]

That's the best part! I could listen to him all day.

[@gw6667]

I didn't think that part was as funny, but I was cracking up when he asked, "are you serious?" after the interviewer asked if he ever got those names from Giuliani 35:24

[@citizensagainstkleptocracy9061]

"I didn't lose any more hair than I had previously." I died of laughter. How did the entire interview team not react?!

[@ronnash8657]

I am mostly Democrat but GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY! You are an honorable and respectful man and the ultimate example of what a true politician should be, Republican or Democrat and a true Patriot.

[@justthetruth5997]

You’re a good man, Rusty Bowers! You did everything right, honorably and professionally and morally right! Thank you for your courage! From a democrat from Kentucky Lol

[@AnaPerez-qm6mx]

Hello from Dominican Republic. Mr. Rusty Bowers, thank you, because of your Honesty, Honor, Respect to the Constitution, you defended Democracy. Forever, we must always be grateful to you !! Hope MAGA Cult people, are listening to your testimony, and open their eyes, they are hynotized by that horrible man !! God bless you !!

[@judydyer]

he says about the Republican party:.."I don't want to say: overly cultic"

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

anyone who uses the phrase "defend democracy" is usually utterly clueless of the reality of that situation.

[@ritamariekelley4077]

Rusty Bowers was another person who valued integrity. There weren't many of them, but they are heroes. What did they save? Only our Democracy. So grateful for Rusty Bowers' courageous choice to have morals and honor and decency. There is greatness here. But, wait, did I just hear him say that he would vote for Trump? Forget all I said, when someone will shred his own values just to vote partisan, it negates any decent acts they've done.

[@knelson3484]

You did a super job Mr Bowers, all of you did. You litterally saved the Election of 2020. Thank you, all of you.

[@sandyr1789]

Rusty Bowers is an American Patriot and put America first. Americans who value their freedoms and rights, who want to protect and preserve America's Constitution and America's democracy need to put America first. VOTE BLUE!

[@roddaman7545]

He did make the right choice, in the end, but he helped create this mess by supporting Trump for the sake of the SCOTUS appointments, alone. The president does more than that and it’s INCREDIBLY myopic to support a candidate based on that alone.

[@alicassidy8913]

I thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Im proud to have this man in my government and as a fellow American... I appreciate his honesty and what he stands for... Im glad to have shared this time with him. Thank you Rusty and keep up your fight of right and wrong. Its what its all about. 🇺🇸

[@elizabethchristensen4018]

Great interview with Mr Rusty Bowers. Wish there were more like him.

[@JessicaSmith-ex8mm]

You absolutely did the right thing Rusty Bowers, and i love your fighting spirit and courage to do the right thing in the face of adversity.

[@sideeye7958]

Thank you Sir for saving our democracy 💙🔵

[@sharath9946]

He did nothing to save democracy 🧐

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

The USA is an Oligarchy of unelected war profiteering billionaires. wake up.

[@diannadima7082]

Bless you Rusty Bowers. Please stay strong as long as you can. I am keeping your report in my files. Trump will be the ruination of our Democracy both state wide and Nation wide. Please do all you can to bring this to the peoples ears. Please don't stop Mr. Bowers.

[@charlescarter3595]

During his testimony before Congress, even after listing all of Trump's crimes, RUSTY BOWERS testified he will still vote for Trump. I don't know why this wasn't included in the puff piece.

[@mickilicyes5399]

​@@charlescarter3595Again what is your agenda here? If he is still for Trump, which I highly dought, it makes his testimony even more important.

[@charlescarter3595]

@@mickilicyes5399 just Google does Rusty Powers still support Trump

[@marihughes8852]

I really hope he changes his mind and not vote Traitor Trump. He’s gone through so much, but then turns and says he will vote for Traitor Trump. It doesn’t make sense!!! VOTE BLUE TO SAVE AMERICA 💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

You say that about Trump and US democracy because that is what the US mainstream media has told you.

[@Yeemod7]

Wow! I am forever grateful to this man. I'm an AZ native and my family has never been more divided. I appreciate your honesty!

[@elsiesamuels423]

May God forever bless you Mr. Rusty Bowers!! You exemplified courage, integrity, and honesty during your testimony and I truly believe that God is pleased with your service!!

[@Tomr9]

Mr. Bower is the true guardian guarding the Constitution for the freedom of America🇺🇸 🙌🙌

[@meafordmichael]

THANK YOU, Rusty Bowers, for being a man of honour and integrity and also for representing your faith so well, unlike the blasphemous Evangelicals who use (misuse) Christianity to only serve their own perverted ends. Your family must be SO proud of you, your country is proud of you and you must have such well-deserved inner peace. I salute you, sir!

[@allymayful]

This man is awesome!!! So easy to listen to. How can people not be inspired by this authenticity when in his company???

[@lisat9802]

Rusty Bowers you are a good man Sir.

[@asbeautifulasasunset]

Thank you, Mr. Rusty Bowers, for protecting your values, your integrity and our democracy.

[@davidhaynes3126]

I’m 66. I’ve heard the short version of this interview. Never have I felt so much better about America than when I heard Rusty Bower. Thank you Frontline.

[@RLReagan]

OK the Boy Scout thing got me. Why don’t we have someone like him as president instead of “Just keep saying it and they’ll believe it.” How so many really did too.

[@user-xt7cu2iv3c]

I was very impressed with rusty bowers interview. Was a pleasure to hear his honesty and integrity! Thank you mister bowers. I would also vote for this gentleman if he ever runs for the presidency

[@beekeepermariadelgado6806]

As a Democrat I would vote for him as president!

[@nettwench]

This is just so satisfying to listen to someone sane and rational and with a sense of the absurd. Telling the truth and calling out these treason rats. A natural communicator.

[@mariae.legorreta9224]

I admire you, so much, Mr. Rústy Bowers ( with or without your “keds” tenis 😊 ) but for WHAT YOU ARE INSIDE, your values and moral. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I learn from you every day, your feelings are mine also. 🎉 thank God 🙏🏻we are “that”, that we are because we decided to be like we are : 👏🏻👏🏻 Feel proud, and greatful… , please ! 🙏🏻👏🏻 I am Mexican and American citizen and I like to be how I decided to be, and congruent, of course ! I Swore my Girl Scout oath and swore to the American flag, to our constitution and to “we the people oath”and I really feel good and follow this oaths. But… Thank you Mr. Bowers , don’t get tired because we need brave and valuable people, like you !!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻

[@ccsullivan9164]

What a beautiful man. I am a lifelong D and so many Rs have spoken up and spoken about these events in a manner that is pure inspiration. When he speaks about his oath and puts his hand on his heart I was brought to the edge of tears. The people of Arizona are lucky to have him, as is Georgia in the stalwart Mr. Raffensperger.

[@melissawatkins7332]

Rusty Bowers. Fist bump. I hope my children have as much integrity and I will be proud and happy

[@michaelhess7541]

Rusty Bowers, a true, genuine, American hero!

[@margaritapitti3162]

You are such an honorable man with such an amazing integrity, with FAITH and LOVE for your family and America.

[@d.f.9064]

RUSTY, First off, Thank you for being a fine example of a true patriotic American in government. When you realized you were being told to do unethical and illegal things, by everyone around you, including the POTUS! You stood your ground and did what was right, what you swore to do. Thank you, Sir.

[@karenjohnson5271]

Thank you Sir for your honesty and integrity.