Trump grants blanket pardon of Jan. 6 defendants, including protesters who violently attacked police: Image: AP.
(The Post News)– On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump issued sweeping pardons for approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, fulfilling his pledge to grant “full, complete, and unconditional” clemency on his first day back as president. Among those pardoned were individuals convicted of violent crimes during the insurrection, a day Trump now describes as a “day of love.”
The controversial decision also included commutations for over a dozen cases, reducing sentences for those Trump said required “further research.” Notably, Stewart Rhodes, founder of the far-right Oath Keepers militia, saw his sentence shortened. While signing the late orders on Monday, Trump described the action as “a big one” and stated that they hope for the immediate release, referring to those pardoned as “hostages.” He also instructed the Justice Department to drop all pending charges against individuals connected to January 6, framing the move as an act of justice.
The statement accompanying the pardons stated that this declaration initiates a process of national reconciliation and puts a stop to a serious national injustice that has been inflicted upon the American people for the past four years. Meanwhile, a group advocating for the release of January 6 defendants asserted that government involvement absolves them of responsibility. According to the group, swift reactions followed the decision, with some advisors allegedly encouraging Trump to consider each case separately. However, Trump rejected these pleas, stating that he was justified in granting amnesty in all cases. Additionally, the group stated that Trump has consistently alleged that the convictions were politically motivated, reflecting feelings of the so-called “J6 community.”
The pardons immediately free several individuals convicted of violent assaults on police officers and members of extremist groups who orchestrated efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. The Justice Department had described January 6 as one of the darkest days in U.S. history, citing the injuries of over 100 officers and the chaos that forced lawmakers and staff into hiding. While expected, the sheer scope and speed of Trump’s actions dismantled years of efforts to hold participants accountable. The move cements his narrative of the Capitol riot as a patriotic protest rather than a violent insurrection, further polarising the nation as he begins his second term.
About the Author
