Making good on his promise to pardon those involved in the January 6, 2021, storming of the US Capitol, President Trump signed an executive order just days into his second term granting amnesty to hundreds – including violent criminals who some judges fear may still pose a threat to public safety. The backlash from top democrats was swift and expected; however, more surprisingly, many top republicans have also vocalized concern over the sweeping pardons.
Following Trump’s pardon, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson launched a new investigative subcommittee to look into the events of January 6 and review the prior Democrat-led subcommittee. Though many fear the subcommittee may attempt to whitewash the insurrection events, others are hopeful that it could be a step toward a more unified approach, especially as more Republicans come forward to condemn Trump for his sweeping pardons.
“I’m disappointed to see that,” Alaska Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said following the pardons. “I do fear the message that is sent to these great men and women that stood by us,” she added, referencing the capitol police officers who were injured on the day of the attack.
“I think that whether you’re in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Monroe, Lafayette, Alexandria, Lake Charles, or Washington, D.C., it’s wrong to assault anybody,” Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy added. “Certainly to assault an officer.”
Among those pardoned is the leader of the Oath Keepers, Stewart Rhodes, who was serving an 18-year sentence. When in court, Rhodes displayed no remorse over his actions. During his trial, he admitted that his only regret was not packing more heat. “We should have brought rifles. We could have fixed it right then and there,” he said. “I’d hang … Pelosi from the lamppost.”
Many top Democrats feel unsafe now that the rioters are back on the streets. Garret Miller, who admitted to posting threats to “assassinate AOC,” was released following the executive order. Now, the New York congresswoman fears retaliation. “He definitely tried to target me,” she said.
