WASHINGTON, D.C. — Democrats used the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol attack to sharply criticize President Donald Trump, accusing him of inciting the riot and undermining accountability after he issued sweeping pardons to hundreds of defendants tied to the assault.
The anniversary renewed partisan divisions over the events that unfolded as Congress certified the 2020 presidential election results. Democrats argue Trump has elevated and vindicated those involved in the attack during his second term, pointing to his decision to pardon more than 1,500 individuals and commute the sentences of extremist group leaders affiliated with the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.
Members of the House Judiciary Committee released a report Monday condemning Trump’s appointment of Ed Martin — who participated in the events of Jan. 6 — as U.S. pardon attorney. The report found that at least 33 individuals pardoned by Trump have since been convicted of, arrested for, or charged with additional crimes, including violent offenses.
Democratic lawmakers, including Reps. Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania and Zoe Lofgren of California, said the pardons sent a dangerous signal and contradicted Trump’s stated support for law enforcement. Sen. Adam Schiff of California, a former member of the House Jan. 6 select committee, warned that efforts to excuse or downplay the violence threaten democratic norms.
The White House dismissed the criticism, arguing voters reelected Trump to focus on border security, crime, and the economy. House Democrats plan to hold a hearing Tuesday featuring lawmakers recounting their experiences during the attack.
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