Former President Obama said Thursday that "our democracy is at greater risk today than it was" one year ago, when a pro-Trump mob breached the U.S. Capitol to try to block the certification of President Biden's Electoral College victory.

Driving the news: "Although initially rejected by many Republicans, the claims that fanned the flames of violence on January 6th have since been embraced by a sizeable portion of voters and elected officials — many of whom know better," Obama wrote in a statement.

• Obama's remarks come as a majority of Americans fear a repeat of Jan. 6 in the next few years and just half say they have faith in American democracy, per a recent Axios-Momentive poll.

What he's saying: "Historically, Americans have been defenders of democracy and freedom around the world — especially when it’s under attack," Obama said. "But we can’t serve that role when leading figures in one of our two major political parties are actively undermining democracy at home."

• "If we want our children to grow up in a true democracy — not just one with elections, but one where every voice matters and every vote counts — we need to nurture and protect it."

Go deeper:

• Biden blames Trump for Jan. 6 Capitol riot
• Harris a year after Jan. 6 riot: "If we're not vigilant" democracy will fail