During the Jan. 6 riots, Senator Josh Hawley was photographed pumping his fist in the air, seemingly in support of the rioters.
The image went viral, with many criticizing Hawley for supporting what is often referred to as “the insurrection,” as well as those participating in it.
Hawley never apologized for his actions despite the widespread condemnation, and it appears that he’s still standing firm in his position, because now, he’s selling campaign merchandise with the infamous photo stamped across it.
Now available for his supporters to purchase are mugs with the image that caused so much of a stir early last year, and in an email to supporters, Hawley’s campaign said the mug was “the perfect way to enjoy Coffee, Tea, or Liberal Tears!”
The full design consists of an edited version of the original photo, which is now rendered in greyscale, along with Hawley’s name and the words “Show-Me Strong!” in reference to the state he represents, Missouri, often being referred to as the “Show-Me State,” because its people have a reputation for only believing what they see.
Among several GOP senators, Hawley denounced the 2020 electoral vote certification in Congress following the events of Jan. 6. Hawley has also made multiple statements following Jan. 6 that have been viewed and interpreted by many as downplaying the situation.
He’s gone on record saying the events at the Capitol were simply another display of political violence, comparing them to the Black Lives Matter protests in the summer of 2020 that railed against systemic racism and police brutality.
However, Hawley has also noted that any individual who was in violation of any law that day should face the consequences of their actions, jail or otherwise. On the anniversary of the attack, just last January, Hawley also told HuffPost that he hopes “to never, ever see a riot here ever again.”
“Liberals are so easily triggered, and this new mug is really whipping the left into a frenzy!” The mug’s promotional email from Hawley’s campaign reads.
“Josh isn’t scared, ― he’s show-me strong!” It continues. “This Made in America mug is the perfect way to enjoy Coffee, Tea, or Liberal Tears! Check it out below, and order one for yourself or any woke friend or family member that you want to trigger!”
Before signing the email at the end, the email quips that: “This mug is a great way for proud, fearless conservatives to support Josh’s campaign!”
The mug, for purchase on Hawley’s online store dedicated to the promotion of his campaign, could be purchased for $20. However, it’s possible that Hawley does not have the license to use the image on campaign merchandise. The owners of the rights to the photograph, The Associated Press, which owns the rights to the image, has now said they’ll be taking the time to investigate the matter further.
Hawley was one of several GOP senators who objected to the votes for the 2020 presidential election being certified, leading the charge to challenge the tally of the Electoral College vote.
