WASHINGTON Most Republican lawmakers arent planning to attend official events marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, one of the darkest days in American democracy.

As with everything in Congress these days, the question of whether to mark the anniversary of an attack on democracy itself is splitting along ideological lines.

Thursdays commemorative events will feature lawmakers testimonials about their experiences that day, a prayer vigil on the steps of the Capitol, and a panel discussion with historians in order to establish and preserve the narrative of Jan. 6.

These events are intended as an observance of reflection, remembrance and recommitment, in a spirit of unity, patriotism and prayerfulness, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said in a letter to colleagues last week.

The House is still on recess and very few GOP representatives are expected to attend, however. The possible exceptions include the two members of the House committee probing the attack, Reps. Liz Cheney (Wyo.) and Adam Kinzinger (Ill.).

Senate Republicans are also steering clear of the events at the Capitol, accusing Democrats of trying to politicize the attack and score political points.

I do think that there will be attempts by the Democrats obviously to ... get some political advantage out of it, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) told reporters.

A number of Senate Republicans are planning to travel to Georgia instead to pay their respects to former Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), who died last month and whose funeral services are being held on Thursday. The longtime senator was highly respected among his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Those expected to attend Isaksons funeral include Thune and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

Not every senator is planning to attend Isaksons funeral on Thursday, however. With no votes scheduled, some are simply heading back to their home states.

I dont think theres much reason to stick around here, Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) said. I dont think its inappropriate to acknowledge the anniversary. I would hope it doesnt become an annual event.

Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) said he planned to participate in media interviews regarding the Jan. 6 attack from South Dakota. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) also said he planned to mark the event from home in Connecticut

Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) said he doubted any Republican would attend.

All of us from the get-go have known it was going to be taken to this level and run with. To me it looks like its being taken to the hilt, he said.

U.S. Capitol Police are monitoring potential threats to the Capitol complex on the anniversary of the riot, but they dont anticipate any problems, citing better preparations to the department than one year ago.

Theres no intelligence that indicates that there would be any problems, Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger said Tuesday.