Implications of Trump’s Potential Pardons as January 6 Anniversary Approaches
As we near the fourth anniversary of the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol, attention is increasingly turning to the political ramifications of President-elect Donald Trump’s vow to pardon many of those charged in relation to the events of that day, numbering over 1,500 individuals.
Trump has indicated that he plans to issue these pardons on the first day of his presidency, slated for January 20. In a recent NBC “Meet the Press” interview, he remarked, “Most likely, I’ll do it very quickly,” asserting that he believes “these people have suffered long and hard.” He also mentioned that he would scrutinize each case for potential exceptions, especially in cases involving those he views as excessively radical.
This pledge casts a shadow over the upcoming events on Monday when lawmakers will reconvene to certify a presidential election for the first time since 2021, when Trump supporters violently disrupted the certification process for Joe Biden’s victory.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., has been actively engaging with Trump to advocate for pardons for everyone involved in the Capitol siege. While not all Republicans share her views, many do believe that Trump should evaluate pardons on a case-by-case basis.
“As we approach four years since that day, many of these individuals have been in prison since 2021. Even those who engaged in violence against Capitol Police or damaged property should be pardoned and released,” Greene asserted, criticizing the lengthy sentences handed out and describing it as a two-tiered justice system that requires reform.
To date, more than 1,250 individuals have either pled guilty or been convicted in connection with the January 6 events, with over 650 receiving prison sentences ranging from mere days to as long as 22 years.
Many of the rioters echoed Trump’s unfounded claims of election fraud during the Capitol attack. Some even issued threats against prominent politicians, including then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and then-Vice President Mike Pence, who refused to challenge Biden’s victory. Lawmakers who had evacuated returned that evening to continue their work.
The idea of pardons has sparked outrage among many law enforcement officials who defended the Capitol. Approximately 140 officers were injured during the riot, with outgoing U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves labeling January 6 as potentially the largest mass assault on law enforcement in U.S. history.
“You cannot claim to back law enforcement while pardoning those who betrayed that trust, injured officers, and vandalized the Capitol,” stated Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who has since retired due to injuries sustained during the riot.
Even some Republicans in Congress, particularly those aligned with Trump, have suggested that the individuals involved in the January 6 incidents should not be treated uniformly. Rep. Jim Jordan, a prominent Trump supporter and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, expressed his support for some pardons while stressing the importance of distinctions in cases.
“For those who did not engage in violence, I believe there is broad support for that,” Jordan pointed out, advocating for a more nuanced approach.
Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., echoed this sentiment, calling for individual evaluations. However, he remained cautious when asked about pardoning those who assaulted Capitol police officers.
“I’d need to assess the specifics. Attacking U.S. Capitol Police is a grave matter,” he responded.
Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., highlighted that not all charges carry the same weight, making a distinction between trespassers and those who caused property damage in the Capitol. He believes Trump will carefully consider each case before making any decisions.
“We should never condone attacks on police officers,” Johnson added emphatically.
House Democrats, who led the impeachment of Trump related to the January 6 events and conducted extensive investigations, have warned that such pardons could pose serious threats to the rule of law and national security. Members of extremist groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys have also faced significant convictions for their roles in the insurrection.
“Anyone who values peace and security should be outraged at the thought of pardoning those who assaulted law enforcement while they were fulfilling their duties,” cautioned Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., who led the investigative committee that concluded Trump “ignited the fire” for the insurrection.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., who oversaw Trump’s second impeachment trial, stated that if pardons are granted, those individuals should demonstrate genuine remorse and a commitment to safety to the public.
“Any actions taken by these individuals will reflect back on soon-to-be President Donald Trump,” Raskin warned.
Similar to the police officers who defended them, lawmakers who experienced the attack have strong feelings about the idea of pardons, having narrowly escaped a mob intent on causing harm.
Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., who found himself trapped in the House gallery as rioters attempted to breach the area below, expressed that it would be “incredibly challenging” for him and others if Trump follows through with his pardon promises.
“I try to stay composed and disciplined, but that would be extremely difficult,” Himes admitted. “Many of us have gone through deeply personal experiences related to those now serving time or who have been convicted.”
—Associated Press writer Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
