In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday issued pardons to over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The mass pardons included high-profile figures such as Enrique Tarrio, former leader of the Proud Boys, and Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers, both previously convicted of seditious conspiracy.
Shortly after being inaugurated, Trump also directed the Department of Justice to drop all pending criminal cases related to the Capitol attack. Describing the rioters as “patriots” and “hostages,” Trump reiterated his long-held claim that they were victims of political persecution.
“We hope they come out tonight, frankly,” Trump said at the White House, emphasizing his view that the prosecutions were unjust.
High-Profile Pardons
Enrique Tarrio, sentenced to 22 years, and Stewart Rhodes, sentenced to 18 years, had their sentences commuted to time served.
A total of nine Oath Keepers and five Proud Boys also had their sentences commuted.
All other defendants charged in connection with the riot received full, unconditional pardons.
Backlash from Critics
The move has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders and law enforcement officials:
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the pardons “an outrageous insult” to law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol during the attack.
Pelosi added that the decision betrayed those who risked their lives to uphold the peaceful transfer of power.
Capitol Riot Background
The January 6, 2021, riot was sparked by Trump’s claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election. A mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden’s victory, resulting in violent clashes that injured over 140 police officers.
Biden’s Preemptive Pardons
Before leaving office, former President Joe Biden issued pardons to individuals, including his close family members, former COVID-19 advisor Anthony Fauci, and retired General Mark Milley, citing “politically motivated prosecutions” by the Trump administration as a likely risk.
Biden also extended pardons to Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney and members of the committee that investigated the Capitol attack.
Reactions and Implications
Trump’s sweeping pardons mark a divisive start to his presidency, reigniting debates over accountability and justice in the aftermath of January 6. The decision underscores Trump’s commitment to his supporters but has deepened partisan divides and raised questions about the future of the Justice Department’s independence.
