Profile in courage with Adam Kinzinger | Cap Times Idea Fest 2023

Join Washington Post journalists David Maraniss and Patrick Marley for a conversation with former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois - one of only two Republicans on the January 6th Committee - who stood against his own party in pursuit of accountability for the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. They’ll discuss the 2024 political landscape and the future of democracy, as well as Kinzinger’s forthcoming book “Renegade: Defending Democracy and Liberty in Our Divided Country.”

[@secretariatgirl4249]

My respect for Adam has increased even more. The personal toll is devastating.

[@jannichi6431]

Keeping one's morals and values free from corruption is exonerating. Adam Kinzinger has his freedom.

[@user-in2st7gm3x]

Adam Kinzinger! Honorable Patriotic Honest One! Im a Democrat , and hope Mr Adam Kinzinger , Running for a President off USA! It will be awesome!

[@queenofwater8783]

In 20 years, Adam can be President. I’m a longtime Democrat, but I’d be happy about that.

[@courtneybrubaker9738]

We need him sooner than 20 years. And I'm a Democrat.

[@colleenbrady9675]

He looks young but he is 45 now.

[@caroleclem1580]

I would second Adam or Liz as a future president. I am also not a republican or a democrat. I’ve always voted crossed ticket since I started voting when I was 18 years old and I’m now 61, but I’m very impressed with these two.

[@factsmatter8449]

You have to be 35 to run for president, so what do you mean? he isnt 15 is he?

[@jannichi6431]

Hope a female gets there before, like Amy Klobuchar who is an excellent administrator working bother sides of the isle, but agree the Democratic bench is thick with great candidates such as Adam Kinzinger. (If he wants it now with Forward PAC).

[@user-ql2gd1io1v]

Adam, you're a hero and a profile in courage..... I pray that you and your family are protected and blessed!!!!!

[@maryswaffordstone5205]

Thank you Mr. Kinzinger for your service to Congress, the Jan 6th Hearings, the USA Air Force and to our country in believing in our democracy!

[@laurameans7904]

Adam Kinzinger you are a true Patriot and a Wonderful man!! Thank you for all you have done for our Great Democracy 🇺🇲 May the Blessings 🙏 of the GOD overflow your cup daily for you and your family 🙏🕊️💙🇺🇲

[@florocks7761]

God bless you & your family Adam. Because of people like you the USA has persevered for 240 years. Thank you for your service & commitment to your oath.

[@erickline8786]

God Bless and Keep Adam Kinzinger and his family! Hopefully, someday the GOP we supported for years will find its integrity again! Thanks for doing what is right for the America we love! I remember asking Adam at his 2012 Campaign Launch in Ottawa IL whether he thought about running for President. He replied that he was too young at age 33. He is over 35 now! I would vote for him!

[@RacerXdBrother]

As a Veteran who understands what our eternal oath means, I'm proud of you brother. Thank you Adam for your character and duty to our Republic. I'm an NCO, I proudly salute you sir.

[@marcstreiff6067]

How could anyone become so depraved as to write to a parent & wish their children be killed ? I am proud as a veteran, Kinzinger is about Country, Duty & Honor.... Thank You Sir for all of your service...

[@williambray6953]

Thank for your service.

[@mariacarter3466]

❤❤❤

[@mariacarter3466]

I find it Disturbing that Magat supporters will threaten Children and Families. It does not allow me the option of Anger, and that is what threats make me feel!! Not fear, just Anger!!

[@hmmm7740]

Your kids will forever be proud as your name goes in history books for helping to save U.S. democracy. Thank heavens you were there. Thank you, sir.

[@jodyhuston1516]

True statement, hmmm. Democracy? Now we have to keep it. Vote blue, everyone.

[@Tracey777]

If Donald Trump and Maga gets ANY more control OUR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS will NEVER read much about it. They are working very hard to destroy our public education system, where what is taught will be extremely skewed. As most know, the government has no say in what is taught in private schools. That whole school choice and vouchers, are PRIVATE education.

[@susanwahome1360]

I’m so glad you said those things because they are very true and he deserves to know how valuable he is to his family, our country and to those of us who love our democracy and our constitution and need a voice that will be heard above the noise of Trump and his supporters!❤

[@Logiconfire]

His dramatic crying was memorable.

[@username_is_]

Thank you Mr Kinzinger for standing up for democracy and our country! You sir are a true hero. 🇺🇸

[@danielleesposito5213]

Balls of Steel! This man is a hero

[@valeriepearson2279]

We need a President with honor! I’m Democrat but would vote for Mr. Kinzinger!

[@user-rm2rq8fq1l]

Me too!!!!!!!!!

[@patriciaperdasofpy3974]

WOW!!!! This was a terrific discussion. Thank you Adam for your courage and commitment to your oath and to our country. I sincerely pray for the strength of your precious family. Speaking truth should NEVER cost so much in America.

[@DanielMacias-wp1wv]

There is Evil ! The "TRUTH" has been "THROWN" to the "GROUND" from it's place in "HEAVEN" and is being "STOMPED ON" by the "lie", which is Satan, father of liers. Daniel CH: 8, says, the lie was allowed to throw ( for a while ) The TRUTH to the Ground and Stomped ON. ( This is my reasoning why it was allowed ) it was allowed for the purpose of separating the Shaft from the WHEAT. To distinguish the people who follow the TRUTH from people who follow the lie. We know who are the ones who are Spreading lies and Disrespecting The TRUTH. The TRUTH should not be Disrespected. It should be "HONORED as it is the HOLY SPIRIT". JESUS CHRIST SAID I AM THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE ". No ONE cometh TO FATHER BUT THROUGH ME". The Way AnD The LIFE IS THROUGH the TRUTH ".

[@PennyDavis-cm9tl]

Land of the free ? As long as you play the game. Adam your honesty is beyond supreme. Love you ❤️

[@thomasskomski8828]

I admire your courage and your willingness to stick to your beliefs in the face of ignorance

[@user-mg6gg5zz9h]

Thank you for sharing. Your honest truh

[@janedoe1229]

I adore Adam. What leadership. What a man. What an American treasure. Please, support Adam, Jr. By buying his book. Thank you for allowing me a moment to listen to your words, feel your pain and model your love for democracy and belief in America. God speeds

[@jannichi6431]

You can support Adam Kinzinger through his democracy nonprofit also. ?Forward?

[@susanwahome1360]

Amen 🙏 ❤

[@patlee3995]

Wow! Everyone needs to hear this it is a great tribute to the courage it took to stand up to MAGA. Thank you Adam for sharing your truth, your vulnerability and your pain. May we all find the backbone to be even a little courageous and resilient in finding what actions we can take to stand up for democracy! ❤so much respect and gratitude for you🙏🫶🏻❤️

[@wendyeastman7550]

❤this guy & all he’s done. Adam for President!!

[@charlottelucero4900]

Great conversation, thank you Congressman for your leadership, service, and advocacy - you are a hero🙏

[@marthahines1979]

GREAT interview! Adam says so many important things. Everyone should hear this. Thank you Adam for ALL your service.

[@joannefreeman3573]

Please run for President. You’re one of my very favorite politicians and there are few in my mind.

[@mlight7402]

Adam Kinzinger speaks the truth without concern for political correctness. I am grateful for his candor and wisdom. He will make make a fine President.

[@kelcritcarroll]

I think he would too and im a democrat!☺️🥹

[@kelcritcarroll]

That comment that someone made about Adams sons name was a wow moment… because actually all the people such as the one who said that to Adam are actually the ones who are following the devil…..the devil has corrupted them thru Trump because Trump is evil….im not a religious person but evil is the correct word to use here.

[@robinhood20253]

The poison of Donald Trump is something no one can actually fully explain. It will forever be a thing to study . Thank you Mr. Adam Kinsinger for your loyalty to America and the truth. We owe you so much.

[@Thekarlskorner]

At one time, the Congress and Senate members where referred to as "Distinguished Gentleman". These people had conviction, morals, and credibility for the most part. Adam Kinzinger still holds that title.

[@florocks7761]

Adam, you need to run for president in 2028.

[@leticiasicat8451]

Adam Kinzinger for President! God bless you always Sir. A snappy salute!

[@username_is_]

Not to mention, you are the epitome of courage!

[@erickline8786]

Adam Kinzinger has the integrity that is missing in today's GOP. Unfortunately, Representatives and Senators with integrity are being and have been purged from the MAGA GOP! It is not the same GOP I supported from 1972 to 2012.

[@username_is_]

@@erickline8786 💯, integrity is not represented in our current Republican Party.

[@MeMeproud344]

Heartwarming, Real & God Bless America! Thank You Adam!

[@CF-jj3pq]

Adam you are a true American hero. I was so proud of that committee the entire time you were televised. You were fighting for me and my family, our democracy and all loyal Americans. I thought the world of you then and feel the same way today watching this video. We are so lucky you were and are a man of principles, morals and loyalty to this country and freedoms. God bless you and yours.

[@tammyburke9453]

Well said🎉🎉❤🎉🎉

[@normanslaten8236]

Adam Kinzinger for President! He is a true patriot and a fine human being. He's one of those guys that women have a huge crush on, and guys want to be his bud. And he's intelligent! His mind is not nailed shut as many Dems. and Republicans have become.

[@beckydavis1820]

I really like Adam but he is still a Republican.

[@dorothyreese672]

You are so correct 💯. He is so Sexy.

[@dorothyreese672]

​@@beckydavis1820So what is that such a "Bad Word because Party Name's don't matter. It's the party Who can really help people.

[@christinericard3450]

Thank you Adam!! I want you to know that you are so brave and watching the hearings made me proud. It made me feel that brighter days were ahead for our country especially because you gave so selflessly of yourself. God bless you and your family.

[@courtneybrubaker9738]

We are voting for autocracy or democracy in 2024. That's it.

[@mariacarter3466]

❤❤

[@TimDwg]

I hope Adam knows how many of us fellow Americans who aren’t sycophantic cult members running around threatening people or spreading misinformation, know and appreciate what he and Liz did and they make us proud.

[@tammyburke9453]

me too! ❤ I hope he knows! Love his projection: what will my kids think about their last name? OMG. YES. Principles!

[@nancygibson604]

Sure did

[@suebolton2767]

Adam, I and our country owe you a huge debt of gratitude! Thank you for your honesty and integrity! It's heartbreaking all Republicans didn't display the same bravery. God bless you and your family!

[@BBredChill]

No we don't.

[@markrieck6204]

​@@BBredChillWhy's that? Not a patriot?

[@BBredChill]

@@markrieck6204 Don't like warmongers from the uniparty.

[@markrieck6204]

@BBredChill Uniparty? Oh ...as in not fascist. Your roots are showing.

[@BBredChill]

@@markrieck6204 My roots are showing? Do you even know what fascism is? You don't know me and your throwing fascist at me. Might be projecting a bit....Mr. Patriot.

[@colleenbrady9675]

Thanks Adam Kinsinger!!!! You are amazing !!!! Hoping much happiness for you and your family !!! You deserve great things. I recognized the tremendous heart in you early on. I voted for you because of your amazing honesty, strength, sincerity and intelligence!!!

[@KathySmith-qs7mj]

I love Adam Kinzinger’ I want him to run for President!!!! He would be great!❤

[@user-hn4bs3ed8m]

Thank you Adam’. You are such a patriot!

[@Fearsome4some74]

Adam you will be our president one day !

[@hpbertin]

"The fear of loosing your tribe" - that is such a powerful reflection on what was and still is happen in the american society and around the world in all societys. Thank you.

[@tammyburke9453]

no doubt! he spoke so many truths here. fear of losing ur job! ugh. He saw first hand Congressional members deny truth bc fear of losing their jobs- primaryed...but what r u then, a "shell' of a person?

[@tammyburke9453]

I can hardly stand how much I love this mans honesty! 'who needs this job, that bad'...true . His co-pilot? WTF? Cuts Deep! He is a LEADER. Just tell the truth. This has to be one of my favorite pidcasts! definitely saving for a future re-watch/inspiration ❤

[@karelancona7402]

What a fantastic interview. Kinzinger is a true patriot.

[@billmiller9145]

In case anyone needs an interpretation, that's what a true patriot looks and sounds like.

[@sfwiltflwr]

I am 71 and lived through 13 elections. Kinzinger highlights the words, America land of the free. Home of the brave. Thank you.

[@threeminuteastronomy4526]

A true American hero! Thank you Adam!

[@susankirkpatrick316]

Just knowing that he’s out there helps me.

[@clearbluesky539]

You are the dude on the white horse, Adam.

[@carmenjohnson6321]

Thank you Adam for all you do God willing we will be get rid of trump soon and maybe you can go back to politics and run for president I know you would have my vote same go's for Liz don't know what to do if both run at the same time.

[@sds5502]

Kinzinger and Cheney ticket to restore Democracy and rule of law based on the Constitution.

[@joelritenour4049]

Thank You Adam. Love your bravery and honesty for Democracy and our Country.

[@andyvideos082380]

Adam Thank you for your Service you are the definition of a Washingtonian American Country over party or faction and Autocrats.

[@kellythompson3865]

I agree mr. K, people have been buffooned and their egos dont want failure.

[@anaescobar467]

God bless you, and thank you, Mr. Adam .

[@judybresch1186]

Wow ….. I think we may be looking at a future president..

[@Valerie-mz4et]

Adam, I’m so sorry you are getting threats. It’s sick. And it’s really opened my eyes to the casual way we have hating the other ‘side’. I don’t want to hate republicans, I just fell into the trap. This is what Rupert Murdock wants and I just fell for it. Im sorry. Good on you, and all the other members of the committee!

[@user-uz4cm2rk9q]

1960, US population has 16% in higher edu. 2023, it is 37%. As you can see, low in edu is low in knowledge. Low in knowledge is what happened to our country in Jan-6-2021. We are very proud that Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger represent the USA. We need them to teach other people and the next generation to stand-up to do what is right.

[@nancygibson604]

So true😊

[@flybefree]

Adam has come so far as a person and as a man. Watching his interviews a few years ago I couldn’t understand his lack of emotional intelligence, but he’s been stripped of his ego and he’s rebuilt himself as a deeply authentic person.

[@jannichi6431]

He WAS party before Country. No longer and a true Hero with guts. I have one nearby, who has some work to do but knows to stay in his lane of foreign policy. He is in a purple district. So is Chippy Roy, TX. Top donors rule their policy, unfortunately the later is a PAC (Heritage, Enterprise, Freedom, Liberty, etc) MAN. Many don't NEED the fundraising and can try to stay with integrity. Kinzinger formed his own PAC, think it's called 'Forward'.

[@flybefree]

​@@jannichi6431 Opinions, ideas and policy for sale. It's a tragic corruption of the ideal purpose of politics.

[@MomDeb]

One of the most moving, sincere interviews I’ve ever seen! Great questions and insights. And, I’ve thought for quite some time now that Adam Kinzinger is Presidential material; and, I’m a Democrat. I wouldn’t vote for him against Biden, but; if he won I would still feel democracy would be protected. And, as I understand you now reside in my State, I have two words for you: Ted Cruz. 😉 Thank you for past and continuing service to our country. May God Bless and Protect you and your family. 🙏🏻

[@tammyburke9453]

agree 100%🎉

[@user-zb7gf3um7t]

Me too. I’m an Independent, but have usually voted for a Democrat, except twice, once Independent and the other a Republican. As an Independent, I have that choice.

[@courtneybrubaker9738]

He knows his true identity outside of the tribal party.

[@stuartthompson3837]

Please run! I'll vote - VA Dem Can I work for you?

[@catcadenza2493]

Thank you Adam Kinzinger for standing up for America! I pray that your words do not fall on deaf ears.

[@florocks7761]

Liz & Adam for president & vs. president in 2028. Either or can be pres. or vs. Not an issue. They both have demonstrated their love & commitment for our great country.

[@jannichi6431]

Adam and Amy K.

[@galloping3265]

May Adam's son thrive, live long, and prosper. Adam is an American hero!

[@5150cappie]

Kinzinger is an American Hero, and this is coming from a veteran who wouldn’t vote for a fly in the GOP. I’d vote for Kinzinger in any party, though. Respect. Respect. Respect. And Semper Fi.

[@brianmould7250]

An honest and wonderful man.

[@deniceeverham9467]

I’m going to get the book . He is fascinating.

[@jannichi6431]

Adam has a Democracy PAC, Forward I think.

[@jemma6596]

I agree with Adam Kinzinger, I used to think democracy was the easiest form of government and often wondered why there weren't more democracies in the world. So little did I know, until about the last 4 years or so. It is by far the hardest, but the best for those of us who have the least amount of power, us regular Americans.

[@Bob_WC]

American Hero…

[@c.t.5255]

Adam is right that's exactly what gangs do.

[@mrmcphilsconfidential8562]

"I wouldn't do a damn thing different."

[@sheilayungk7815]

I've got to say that I cried at the end of this while the group gave Adam a well deserved standing ovation. God bless Adam. He will continue to be one of my heroes. The whole January 6th committee are heroes to me. Hang in there Adam!!!!

[@KL-ei6en]

Adam’s on the right side of history. ❤

[@maryzamarripa2588]

Mr Kinzinger you are amazing and honest your kids and all your family and friends should be very proud of you. Thank you

[@michaellesueur5103]

Why don’t quality people like Adam lead America? Only the crooked bums are on the ballot!

[@maryburch346]

If he ran...I would vote for him !!!

[@SoulSpirit1]

So Proud of you Adam. God Bless you & may the Angels protect you & your family 24/7. Our Country & her citizens need people as brave and unwavering as you, Liz, the Democratic Majority & others to STAND UP for Democracy, Truth & Justice for the entire World❣️

[@Tracey777]

Adam Kinzinger is 100% right. The indictments would NEVER have happened without the work of the Congress doing their hearings. B. I REALLY wish they would have been able to look more into the money!

[@jenniferjaurigue9660]

Adam Kinzinger is a TRUE American Patriot and a hero in this, Biff timeline. Thank you for your service.

[@user-rt5md9un3g]

Hang in there you are a hero and history will remember you. Keep up working for our Democracy. God bless you. ❤

[@ttf4now]

The truth will always come out. Thank you, Adam, for having the courage to speak your mind in the face of adversity. There’s a special place in Heaven for you.

[@kellywilson5301]

I love Adam 🙏🏽❤️

[@ritamariekelley4077]

I still find it hard to believe how serious, how heinous, how damaging J6 was. I choked up thinking of the Capital Police knowing they were outnumbered and their calls for backup were ignored. The horror, the panic they had to feel, but they pushed ahead, laying their lives on the line for our country, for us, all of us. One day, MAGA will realize that; hope it happens sooner rather than later. I love hearing how the Committee functioned; that's about the only good news we've heard in a long time. Thank you, Adam for choosing integrity over all else.

[@marialuisajaureguigomez4945]

Thank you

[@kimbeebee8176]

I too, miss G. W. Bush and I’m a democrat! He was a reasonable man who is pals with Michelle Obama and Hilary! They all place country first, like Adam and Liz. Thank you.

[@suzanneantonich4106]

God bless you and your family Adam. I will continue to pray for your healing of this ridiculous nightmare and thank God daily that you had the guts to stand up for all of us.

[@FlatTube2]

Hopefully, this man will run for and win the presidency one day. Not because he is republican or democrat but because he has a sense of decency, valour and honesty.

[@FG-hw5ep]

Thank you Adam for everything you have done. These haters have been totally brainwashed with misinformation and too stupid to realize it. Kudos to you for being honest. 👏👏👏👏👏

[@francishonny4546]

A man of integrity God richly bless you

[@danyelmoulden3803]

I have to say that seeing the passion of the speaker and the empathy the audience was showing gives me great hope! Thank you.

[@sjbigdlc]

i keep saying this over and over. im a Democrat, Anti MAGA/Republican, but i would, in a heartbeat, vote for Kinzinger for President of US. His patriotism, courage, toughness, honesty and raw emotions are exactly what a POTUS should be. A man who understands and defends what the Constitution stands for. Republican Party turned their backs on him for standing for Democracy and the truth. hero to me

[@freeradt]

You are a rare diamond Adam! Don’t let anyone get in your brain who says otherwise!!! Thank you SO much for representing the Democratic Party and the USA in general! I know I can speak for every Dem… you are appreciated in all aspects of your services to this country! 💙🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸💙

[@Mariettabrulle01]

Thank You Mr Kinzinger for your service to our country and in Congress . I wish you are running for President !!

[@user-iz7fd6ti2s]

Mr Kinzinger, I am trying to find the words to share my utmost response in respect to the real Republican hero as you stood up in truth to our Constitution. Hold your head high for what you did is beyond what any one else stood up to do. Your son Christian, is in our Lord's hands! As you and your family are, we as real Christians pray for. The rest of us can only do our own part and VOTE for freedom, justice and democracy rule this great nation to prevail! I am grateful for all you did.

[@conniebillian7550]

I totally understand. I felt this in my church. It closed after months of turmoil, after 100 years.

[@almacorramartini7036]

Thank you so much Mr. Kinzinger…Your courageous and honesty will be remembered…Keep up the good work…You great…God Bless you and family.God Bless America🇺🇸🙏❤️🇨🇦

[@Mary-NB699]

Thank you Adam I am absolutely; sure, your son is going to be so proud of his dad and of his name Chrisitan Kinzinger. I am so proud of you and Liz Chaney. Profiles in Courage.

[@O_U_No_It_2]

That was truly one of the best interviews I've heard of this honorable man. _💙⚖️🇺🇲_

[@scottdicker7051]

What courage! Adam, you are an inspiration. You are living proof of truth and the challenges it brings

[@ulli5328]

Whatever willhappen in the next years, in 100 years Adam Kinzinger will be remembered in the history books of the world as a true american hero. Here in France, all my nephews and nieces already know his name.

[@JudyBurrier-fz1uk]

Adam you may have lost untrue friends but you gained so much more! We absolutely need and must have people such as yourself! We stand behind you!

[@midnite1369L]

Adam, I can relate to so much you said. I really admire you as a human. You are very brave. One of the bravest 'Republicans'. I can't express the gratitude I think you deserve. Your honesty is astounding.

[@miriamhoelzle]

Adam this American is so grateful for your efforts to save our country.