WASHINGTON — As the fourth anniversary of the January 6 Capitol attack approaches, lawmakers are focusing on the potential implications of President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to pardon numerous individuals charged in connection with the riot, which includes over 1,500 people.
Trump has stated that he intends to grant pardons to those involved in the riot on the very first day of his presidency, set for January 20. In a recent interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” he expressed, “Most likely, I’ll do it very quickly,” adding that he believes “these people have suffered long and hard,” while also indicating that he would review each case for exceptions, particularly concerning those he deems excessively radical.
This pledge has cast a shadow over Monday’s events, where lawmakers will gather to certify a presidential election for the first time since 2021, when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, temporarily disrupting the certification of Joe Biden’s victory.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., has been in discussions with Trump, advocating for pardons for all who took part in the siege. While not all Republicans echo her sentiments, many agree that Trump should consider pardons on an individual basis.
“Here we are nearly four years later. Many of these individuals have been incarcerated since 2021. Even those who engaged in violence against Capitol Police or caused damage to the Capitol, I believe they have served their time and should be pardoned and released,” Greene stated. She criticized the lengthy prison sentences some have received, calling it a two-tiered justice system that needs to change.
To date, over 1,250 individuals have either pleaded guilty or been convicted related to the events of January 6, with more than 650 receiving prison sentences that range from mere days to as long as 22 years.
Many rioters echoed Trump’s false claims of election fraud during the Capitol breach. Some even threatened prominent politicians, particularly then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and then-Vice President Mike Pence, who refused to contest Biden’s win. Lawmakers who had evacuated returned that night to resume their duties.
The prospect of pardons has outraged many law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol. During the riot, about 140 officers sustained injuries, marking January 6 as potentially the largest mass assault on law enforcement in U.S. history, as stated by outgoing U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves.
“You cannot claim to support law enforcement while pardoning those who betrayed that trust, injured officers, and vandalized the Capitol,” remarked Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who has since retired due to injuries incurred during the riot.
Some Republicans in Congress, even those closely associated with Trump, have suggested that not all individuals involved in the January 6 events should be treated the same. Rep. Jim Jordan, a leading Trump supporter and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, expressed his support for some pardons but emphasized the need for distinctions.
“For those who did not engage in violence, I believe there is widespread support for that,” Jordan noted, highlighting a more nuanced approach.
Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., shared a similar sentiment, advocating for individual assessments. However, he hesitated when asked whether those who assaulted Capitol police should be considered for pardons.
“I’d have to evaluate the specifics. Attacking U.S. Capitol Police is a serious issue,” he replied.
Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., noted that not all charges are equal, distinguishing between trespassers and those who caused property damage within the Capitol. He believes Trump will evaluate individual cases before making any decisions.
“We should never condone attacks on police officers,” Johnson added.
House Democrats, who spearheaded the impeachment of Trump related to January 6 and conducted extensive investigations, have cautioned that such pardons could have grave consequences for the rule of law and national security. Members of extremist groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys have also been convicted of serious crimes related to the insurrection.
“Anyone who values peace and security should be outraged at the prospect of pardoning those who assaulted law enforcement while doing their jobs,” warned 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 managed Trump’s second impeachment trial, stated that if pardons are to be granted, those individuals should show genuine remorse and assure the public of their commitment to safety.
“Any actions taken by these individuals will reflect back on soon-to-be President Donald Trump,” Raskin cautioned.
Similar to the police officers who defended them, lawmakers present during the attack have strong feelings about the idea of pardons, having narrowly escaped a mob intent on causing them harm.
Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., who found himself trapped in the House gallery as rioters attempted to breach the area below, stated that it would be “incredibly challenging” for him and others if Trump follows through with the pardons.
“I strive to remain composed and disciplined, but that would be extremely difficult,” Himes admitted. “Many of us have endured deeply personal experiences related to those currently serving time or who have been convicted.”
—Associated Press writer Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
