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Tim Moore, Republican Congressman, Revealed in Video an Old Hidden Staircase in the U.S. Capitol, Generating Debate About Security and Curiosity About the History of the Place.
A video published by Republican Congressman Tim Moore revealed an old hidden staircase under the carpet of the Lincoln Room in the United States Capitol, sparking different reactions on social media.
Forgotten Staircase Shown in Video
The video shows Moore lifting the carpet in the Lincoln Room and revealing a stone staircase. “This is one of the cool things about the U.S. Capitol,” the congressman commented.
He explained that the construction of the building started in the 18th century and that there are many hidden passages there.
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According to Moore, this staircase was an exit that led directly from the second floor to the outside of the Capitol.
He also mentioned, though without confirmation, that British soldiers may have used the staircase during the 1814 attack in the War of 1812.
Reactions and Criticisms on Social Media
The content of the video generated discomfort for some users on social media, mainly on the X platform. Entrepreneur Patrick Bet-David criticized the post, saying that revealing such information could represent a risk. “The enemy is watching everything,” he wrote.
In light of the reaction, Moore responded again. He clarified that the staircase is not a tunnel and has been sealed for decades. “This is public information,” he wrote. “I always love to share pieces of history with people at home, and it’s great to see so many people interested in this,” the congressman added.
History and Honors at the Location
The incident mentioned by Moore refers to the Washington Fire in 1814, when British troops led by Major General Robert Ross attacked the American capital.
At that time, buildings such as the White House, the Capitol, and the Library of Congress were set on fire.
Although Moore cited the connection of the staircase to this event, he himself admitted that there is no historical proof that British soldiers passed through there.
The Lincoln Room, where the staircase is located, was named only in 2019. Before that, it served as the House’s post office during Abraham Lincoln’s term as a congressman.
At the time of the renaming, Representative Krishnamoorthi justified the tribute. “It is especially appropriate that we rename this room for President Lincoln,” he stated. According to him, the space was a place where Lincoln cultivated important friendships for his political career.
Moore’s post rekindled interest in curiosities and hidden passages of the Capitol. Despite the criticisms, he reaffirmed that his intention was only to share a piece of history with the public.
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