As the January 6 Capitol Attack Anniversary Approaches, Lawmakers Eye Trump’s Pardon Promises

With the fourth anniversary of the Capitol insurrection just around the corner, attention is shifting among legislators to the potential consequences of President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to pardon a substantial number of those charged in connection with the events, which includes over 1,500 individuals.

Trump has announced plans to issue pardons to participants of the riot on the very 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 “these people have suffered long and hard,” while also signaling his intention to review cases for exceptions, especially for those he finds excessively radical.

This commitment looms over Monday’s events, where lawmakers will convene to certify a presidential election for the first time since 2021, when supporters of Trump stormed the Capitol, momentarily halting the certification of Joe Biden’s victory.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., has been actively discussing with Trump the need for pardons for all individuals involved in the siege. While not all Republicans share her viewpoint, many agree that individual circumstances should be considered for pardons.

“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 sentences some have received, describing it as a two-tiered justice system that needs reform.

To date, over 1,250 individuals have either pleaded guilty or been convicted in relation to the January 6 events, with more than 650 facing prison sentences ranging from mere days to as long as 22 years.

Many participants in the riot echoed Trump’s unfounded claims of electoral fraud during the Capitol breach. Some even issued threats against prominent politicians, particularly then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and then-Vice President Mike Pence, who refused to contest Biden’s victory. Lawmakers who evacuated that day returned later that night to continue their work.

The notion of pardons has incensed many law enforcement officials who defended the Capitol. During the riot, approximately 140 officers sustained injuries, marking January 6 as potentially the largest mass assault on law enforcement in U.S. history, according to 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,” said retired Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who suffered injuries during the riot.

Some Republicans in Congress, even those closely allied with Trump, have suggested that not every individual involved in the January 6 events should receive equal treatment. Rep. Jim Jordan, a prominent Trump supporter and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, expressed his backing for certain pardons but stressed the necessity of making distinctions.

“For those who did not engage in violence, I believe there is widespread support for that,” Jordan noted, advocating for a more nuanced approach.

Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., echoed similar views, calling for individual evaluations. However, he was cautious 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 responded.

Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., differentiated between trespassers and those who caused property damage within the Capitol, believing Trump would assess individual cases before making any decisions.

“We should never condone attacks on police officers,” Johnson emphasized.

House Democrats, who led the impeachment of Trump in connection to January 6 and conducted extensive inquiries, have warned that such pardons could threaten 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,” 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 considered, those individuals should demonstrate 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 warned.

Similar to the police officers who defended them, lawmakers present during the attack have strong feelings about the potential for 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 tried 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 confessed. “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.